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YMCA Youth and Government

State Capitol

YMCA Texas Youth & Government is a statewide civic education and leadership development institute in which YMCAs, schools, and community organizations involve students in hands-on learning experiences. YMCA Youth and Government allows middle and high school students to experience the excitement of our state government in action.

Students meet regularly as a club during the fall semester. Each club consists of participating students and an adult sponsor (usually a teacher) and is guided by YMCA staff and volunteers. Students choose to participate in one of four areas: legislative, judicial, media, or state affairs forum.

Area clubs begin meeting during the fall school semester. In November, clubs compete at District Conference, and the top individuals and teams advance to participate in the State Conference in January.

Motto: Democracy must be learned by each generation in order for it to survive.

Areas of Participation

Legislative: write and debate a bill solving a current state issue
Judicial Mock Trial: part of a 5 or 6 person attorney team. Roles include attorney or witness.
Media: newspaper reporter, photographer, broadcaster, or cyber media
State Affairs Forum: write proposal on a set list of topics

Participating Schools 10-11

Youth and Government House Floor Ann Richards School
Austin High School
Del Valle High School
LASA High School
Hyde Park High School
*Burnet Middle School (partnership with Boys & Girls Club)
*Canyon Vista Middle School
*Deerpark Middle School
Khabele School
Lanier High School (partnership with Boys & Girls Club)
McNeil High School
St. Michael's Catholic Academy
Springs Family YMCA