Public commenters highlight new youth‑representation law and ask commission to support Glasgow Middle School civics project

During public comment at the June 16, 2026 meeting, two speakers urged the commission to support youth engagement in local government and classroom civic projects.

Jordan, identifying themself as executive director of Virginians for Civic Engagement, told commissioners that "on April 6th, 2026, Governor Abigail Spanberger signed HB 1404 into law with an effective date of July 1st, 2026." Jordan said the bill, introduced by Delegate Elizabeth R. Guzman with more than 60 co‑patrons including Delegate Jessica Anderson and Delegate Karen Keys, "allows local governments, at their discretion, to appoint non‑voting youth representative members" and that the organization is working with students in Fairfax, Prince William and Loudoun counties to adopt local ordinances.

Juliet Adams, a classroom teacher calling from Glasgow Middle School, described an eighth‑grade civic museum project and asked the commission to "look into" Glasgow as a pilot for funding and technical support because the school is highly diverse and serves Title I students. Members responded with encouragement: Delegate Jessica Anderson, a bill co‑patron, said she was "a big fan of that bill" and urged students to communicate directly with commissioners about next steps. Commissioners also noted the commission can be a conduit to help teachers share materials and resources once the commission's website is available.

Next steps: commissioners encouraged the public to provide written information and contact details so staff and legislators can follow up. Jordan indicated Senator Boysko had the organization's contact information for follow‑up.