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UW‑Extension highlights Teen Court and 4‑H outcomes; youth civic program shows positive results
Summary
UW‑Extension staff reported positive outcomes from Teen Court (strong survey results, high sanction completion) and the Youth in Governance and 4‑H programs (participants showed increased civic understanding and leadership). Staff outlined upcoming youth events and outreach plans.
UW‑Extension staff updated the Conservation/UW‑Extension Committee on April 13 about youth programs and outreach efforts across the county.
Sharon Krause, Teen Court Coordinator, said 44 voluntary survey responses from roughly 100 recipients show overwhelmingly positive outcomes: all but one respondent completed assigned sanctions and 98% of respondents agreed or strongly agreed that their cases were handled fairly. Krause described program adjustments, including a revised panel format that begins with personal questions to encourage meaningful dialogue, and noted an increase in THC‑related cases.
Anne Williams, 4‑H Youth Development Educator, reported evaluation results from the Youth in Governance pilot that showed students’ increased understanding of county government, improved communication and leadership skills, and stronger civic engagement. Williams said most student participants expressed interest in repeating the program and recommended expanding the program to include longer‑term topic assignments and more structured pre‑/post‑meeting reflection.
UW‑Extension staff outlined upcoming youth activities: two free educational days at Rhinelander area research stations in June, a Youth Summer Theater performance in July, Robo‑Camp offerings in July and August, and continued development of year‑round robotics opportunities led by volunteers. Staff also noted plans to improve promotion of public‑facing events and to share UW‑Stout materials on AI training for local governments.
Why it matters: Local youth programs contribute to civic readiness, leadership development and prevention efforts; positive evaluation results support program continuation and potential expansion.
Next steps: Committee members were asked to consider mentoring opportunities for Youth in Governance, and staff will work to improve outreach and event promotion.
