Richmond, VA – Today, Congresswoman Jennifer McClellan (VA-04) announced the launch of her Youth Advisory Council for the 2026-2027 school year to promote high schoolers’ engagement with the legislative process and federal government. Members of the Youth Advisory Council will engage with the Congresswoman’s staff through monthly virtual meetings and have the opportunity to present their policy ideas to the Congresswoman.
“Students thrive when they are encouraged to share their perspective and confronted with new ideas that teach them to think for themselves. Yet many young people think their voices aren’t being heard by those in power,” said Congresswoman McClellan. “My Youth Advisory Council Program fosters an environment in which high school students are empowered to discuss the challenges of our time and explore how we can fight for a better future for them and for future generations. I want to encourage high schoolers across Virginia’s Fourth to speak up, to demand more from their elected leaders and to get involved in my Youth Advisory Council this year!”
The Youth Advisory Council is open to all high school students currently residing or attending school in Virginia’s Fourth Congressional District. The council will meet monthly with members of McClellan’s Washington, D.C. and district staff to learn more about the legislative body, communications, constituent casework and district outreach. The students will also work on a project that they share with the Congresswoman and discuss what they have learned over the course of the program.
Eligible high school students can submit their applications now until 11:59 PM on October 2nd, 2026. The Council will be held from October through May.
Students can apply for the Youth Advisory Council using this form. Additional information, including application requirements, program overview, and upcoming deadlines, are available on the Congresswoman’s website here.