Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Youth Engagement topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Scotts Valley youth group Pathways to Possibility introduces local priorities to council
Summary
Three students from Scotts Valley High School’s Pathways to Possibility described youth priorities — more after‑school programs, youth leadership opportunities, and pedestrian safety on Scotts Valley Drive — and asked the council to stay engaged and consider youth perspectives in local planning.
Three student leaders from the high‑school group Pathways to Possibility (Pathways to Possibility) addressed the council during public comment to introduce their organization and outline priorities for local youth services.
Thomas Stokesup, a sophomore and event coordinator, said the group is “striving for better resources for youth, more funding for youth programs, and a larger youth voice being heard in our community.” He specifically raised pedestrian safety concerns on Scotts Valley Drive and said jaywalking was an “extreme safety hazard” he has personally encountered.
Vice President Violeta Doksha and President Emil Schultz said Pathways to Possibility aims to organize youth listening sessions, build leadership opportunities and create more consistent after‑school spaces for studying and recreation. Council members thanked the students and discussed connecting them with the school resource officer and staff; Councilmember Jett offered to follow up on scheduling and coordination.
Why it matters: The students asked the council to consider youth experience in transportation, after‑school programming and mental‑health efforts. Councilmembers encouraged continued engagement and invited the students to meet with staff and the school resource officer to explore short‑term safety measures and partnerships.
Ending: The council expressed support and asked staff to help the students connect with appropriate school and city contacts.
