Students from Saginaw Public School District are taking an active role in local government through their participation in the City of Saginaw Youth Council, a program designed to elevate student voice and engage young people directly in the civic process.
The Youth Council is a partnership between the City of Saginaw and the Saginaw League of Women Voters – Youth Advocates, with a mission to involve SPSD students in local decision-making while guiding them through identifying, researching, and advocating for issues that impact their lives and community.
Youth Council Members (2025–2026)
The following SPSD students are serving on the City of Saginaw Youth Council this school year:
Nya Blondin – Saginaw United High School, 12th grade
Deriona Brown – Saginaw United High School, 11th grade
Precious Guidry-Holmes – Saginaw United High School, 11th grade
Lauryn Hayes – Saginaw Arts and Sciences Academy, 9th grade
Lilly Palencia – Saginaw United High School, 10th grade
Lili Schobert – Saginaw United High School, 9th grade
Melick SebAshtyn – Saginaw Arts and Sciences Academy, 12th grade
Adrianna Sewell – Saginaw Arts and Sciences Academy, 11th grade
Melvin Warfield-Brown – Saginaw United High School, 10th grade
Ke’Ondria Williams – Saginaw United High School, 12th grade
Program Kickoff and Purpose
The Youth Council officially launched on December 15, 2025, at Saginaw United High School’s Media Center, where students met with local leaders and began learning how city government works. The kickoff included remarks from Mayor Brenda Moore, City Council members, and program facilitators, along with interactive activities designed to build confidence and collaboration among students.
The purpose of the Youth Council is to engage SPSD students in local government while empowering them to identify an issue City Council can consider for change—turning student perspectives into meaningful civic action.
Learning Advocacy and Leadership
Throughout the year, students will explore:
How government functions at the city, county, state, and federal levels
How to identify and research community issues
Advocacy strategies and power mapping
Public speaking, storytelling, and persuasive presentations
By the end of the program, students will select an issue they care about and present research-based recommendations to Saginaw City Council, giving youth a direct role in shaping their community.
Upcoming Youth Council Meeting Dates
Youth Council meetings for the 2025–2026 school year are scheduled for:
January 12, 2026
February 9, 2026
March 9, 2026
April 13, 2026
May 6, 2026
June 8, 2026
June 22, 2026
Investing in Student Voice
Through the City of Saginaw Youth Council, SPSD students are learning about government and practicing leadership, advocacy, and civic responsibility. The program reinforces that young people have valuable perspectives and deserve a seat at the table in conversations that affect their future.