Two Lafayette High School students were selected over 150 applicants into the Legislative Youth Advisory Council. 

Some of Louisiana’s most outstanding students have been selected as new members of the Louisiana Legislative Youth Advisory Council (LYAC) and will work together over the next year in an effort to influence the legislative process and make the state a better place for young people.

A new council is selected annually and is composed entirely of students to address issues affecting the youth of Louisiana. It is overseen by the Louisiana Commission on Civic Education.

Now in its eleventh year, LYAC facilitates communication between youth and the legislature and gives students the unique opportunity to be involved in the workings of state government. LYAC members have the opportunity to study, meet with elected officials, and propose legislation in the upcoming regular session.

Incoming senior at Lafayette High School, Hannah Michel, said the government needs fresh blood and fresh ideas.

“15 and 16 years olds may not come up with the most realistic ideas, but sometimes you need a little bit of crazy to stir everything up,” said Michel. “Innovation doesn’t come from you doing the normal. Everyone who has been in the government for a while already has a certain way of thinking. I think the youth brings a fresh perspective,” she added. 

Members of the council are selected from a large pool of applicants from around the state who display a strong interest in civic involvement. These students are dynamic, well-rounded individuals that go through a rigorous selection process.

Three student members serve from each of the congressional districts and the remainder of the thirty-one members serve at large. The members must be in grades nine through twelve and enrolled in a public or private high school or participating in a home study program.