About the Program

Curriculum

• Open: March 1, 2025
• Close: April 15, 2025
• Cohort Notification: May 10, 2025
• Parent Information Session: May 28, 2025
• Program Dates: June 4 – July 23, 2025
• Graduation: July 23, 2025

Eligibility

To be considered for the program, youth must:

1. Be a resident of Gwinnett County
2. Attend a school in Gwinnett County (Gwinnett County Public Schools, Buford City Schools, private, home, or charter schools)
3. Be a rising sophomore, junior or senior going into the academic year
4. Submit a completed application and typed essay questions

Selection Process

To be considered as a candidate for the Gwinnett Youth Commission, students must meet all the requirements listed above. The class is limited to 33 participants each cycle. Selections will be made by an independent committee based on eligibility and the typed essay. Students selected for this program will represent a cross-section of Gwinnett County.

Attendance

Once accepted into the program, students may not miss more than one training session. The Orientation and Induction Ceremony are required sessions.

Cost

There is no cost to participate in this program; however, students must have transportation to the summer training sessions and community volunteer activities after induction. Breakfast and lunch will be provided at all sessions as well as transportation for field trips from the Gwinnett Justice & Administration Center.

This summer program will take place every Tuesday and Wednesday from June 4 to July 23, 2025. A detailed schedule will be provided upon acceptance.

Students may not miss more than one session. The orientation and graduation are required sessions. An informational meeting for parents will be held in May prior to the start of the 2025 cohort.

After successful completion of the program, youth academy graduates will be invited to participate in special events, field trips, and assist with planning and participating in community volunteer projects throughout Gwinnett County during the academic school year.

Youth Commissioners have several events they are highly encouraged to attend during the school year. Dates for these events will be communicated to youth commissioners at least one month in advance.