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.
For 2020, our program has moved virtual. We will host our two State Conferences virtually via Zoom. Students will still have an opportunity to debate their bills, try a case, serve in the media, vote in elections, and much more. Our conference dates are as follows:
- November 18-22
- December 2-6
Students can select a daytime or after-school/evening track for their program sessions. We hope to make the most of this experience for all participants!
