Missouri YMCA Youth and Government (YAG) provides high school students with an opportunity to experience a student-driven simulation of state government. Each year, over 1,000 high school students are involved with the program.
Beginning in the fall of each year, students come together in their local delegations to choose their roles, register for YAG, and prepare for the State Conference. At the YAG State Conference, students create their version of state government. All YAG participants in Missouri come together for this three-day event at the State Capitol. Legislators meet in committees and in the House and Senate chambers to debate legislation. Attorneys try their cases before student judges and engage in a trial competition. The entire event is covered by the student media. Participants also engage in campaigns and elections for Presiding Officers who will serve during the following year.
