Youth Policy Summit
What: Youth Policy Summit 2013: A Wetter, Better World
Who: Ages 14-18
When: June 10-15, 2013
Cost: $900
Logistics Packet
We’re proud to offer this unique opportunity to motivated teens who want to make a difference in the world. Youth Policy Summit (YPS) blends science, adventure and fun into one exciting program that invites teens to experience just how real-life public policy problems are solved. Designed for youth ages 14-18, the program encourages participants to solve problems creatively and collaboratively, explore new challenges, and experience new adventures.
This year’s summit will focus on freshwater sustainability and natural resource management. How can we create a ‘wetter, better world?’ YPS participants will get to know each other before the program even begins through interactive online resources. When they meet at KSS participants will be ready to dive into their topic through the lens of a particular stakeholder such as a farmer, a public interest advocate, or a resource management official. They’ll conduct field research and talk to real-life experts before working together to develop action-oriented solutions to the problems they’re exploring. An adventure day will bring participants closer to the concepts they're studying as they explore the rivers and waterways that support life. And in the spirit of science, adventure, and fun, there will be plenty of KSS flavor with stargazing, story-telling, s’mores by the campfire, and more!
Schedule Overview
Day : Immersion
Students arrive in Denver and are brought to the Keystone Science School to begin tackling the problems surrounding water in the West.
Day 2: Just the Facts
Students will be led on a tour around Summit County, Colorado by experts in the field of water management and develop an intimate understanding of the water issues plaguing Western states.
Day 3: Face the Challenges
Students participate in an Eco adventure to explore all aspects of water’s societal importance. The day ends with dinner with an expert panel and plenty of opportunity to explore possible solutions with the decision makers of today. Experts will be water managers, policy makers, field scientists and more.
Day 4: Solving the Problems
Students participate in a policy workshop to address the challenges of water management and develop their plan to manage the water problems of the future.
Day 5: Sharing Our Vision
Final proposals and plans are prepared to be publically distributed. Without a sharing of knowledge, these problems cannot be overcome.
Day 6: Bring Your Knowledge Home
Head home and bring the skills and knowledge you have gained to your home community as a decision maker of the future.
"YPS opened my eyes to the 'real world.' Not every one will agree with you, but compromise and negotiation can relieve the tension. Take the initiative to negotiate; change is not impossible."
- YPS 2011 Participant
Student Policy Recommendations
Click here to view final policy recommendations produced by the participating youth at Summits from 2004 to present.
For more information, please contact Dave Miller.