Skip to main content

PROGRAM AREAS

Youth in Government Program Areas

Explore the Heart of Governance: Legislature, Judiciary, Media, and Leadership Corps!

Welcome to the Wisconsin Youth in Government Program, where the spirit of civic engagement comes alive in diverse arenas. Immerse yourself in the art of lawmaking within the Assemblies and Senate, where ideas evolve into impactful legislation. Delve into the world of judicial scrutiny as the Supreme Court, where critical legal insights and constitutional principles take center stage. Elevate your understanding of media's role in democracy, gaining firsthand experience in reporting, broadcasting, and storytelling. Experience the executive branch's dynamic leadership, honing your decision-making skills as you navigate the complexities of governance. For those aspiring to lead, our Leadership Corps offers a platform to develop and showcase your leadership potential.

Keep reading to find out all about the program areas that are available when you participate in Youth in Government.

LEGISLATURE – ASSEMBLIES & SENATE

Youth Representatives and Senators identify state issues important to them, their families, their schools, or their communities and write legislation to improve our state. Delegates present their bills in committee hearings at Pre-Gov and on the House and Senate floors in the Capitol Building in Madison.

Legislature Program Area Packet

JUDICIAL – SUPREME COURT

Judicial delegates play the dual role of lawyer and justice. Court members prepare for hearings and make arguments before Youth Justices. Each student will prepare a brief and argue their assigned side of a case, plus have an opportunity to serve on the bench and pass judgment on cases.

Judicial Program Area Packet

MEDIA

Media delegates are responsible for reporting, producing, editing, and publishing several news programs each day via newspaper, video, photography, and social media. They interact with all program areas and report their findings to students and advisors at the conference.

Media Program Area Packet

EXECUTIVE BRANCH

The Governor, Lt. Governor, and Secretary of State are voted in by their peers and serve the state program for the duration of their one-year term. They determine which bills to sign or veto, give encouragement through speeches, and help to administer the conference.

Executive Program Packet

LEADERSHIP CORPS

You will participate in small group, skill building, and leadership development activities that will enhance your role as an active citizen; you’ll also make new friends along the way! As a member of the Leadership Corps, you will be introduced to each program area of Youth in Government through interactive activities and by watching it in action:

  • Writing and Debating Legislative Bills
  • Learning about the Court System
  • Participating in and learning about Media
  • Participating in Elections to select next year’s Youth Officers

Leadership Corps Program Area Packet