Join EdAllies 2026-27 Youth Advisory Council

Join EdAllies 2026-27 Youth Advisory Council

Are you a high school student eager to get more involved, elevate your voice, and have a seat at the table in shaping state-level education policy? Apply to be part of EdAllies 2026-27 Youth Advisory Council! 

APPLY TO EDALLIES’ 2026-27 YOUTH ADVISORY COUNCIL

The Council will bring emerging advocates together to inform the work of a state-level education advocacy nonprofit, while building skills to be an effective changemaker. Over the course of the year you will:

  • Learn about key education policy issues up for debate at the Minnesota Capitol
  • Provide feedback on EdAllies’ policy agenda from a student lens
  • Advocate for student-centered change, including building policy campaigns and engaging in the legislative process
  • Learn how nonprofit advocacy works and build your organizing skills

Who is EdAllies?

EdAllies is a Minnesota-based nonprofit that advocates to ensure every student in the state succeeds in a rigorous and engaging education. We offer programming to help students and community members elevate their voice and build advocacy skills, and advance student-centered policy change at the state Capitol and beyond. We’re passionate about literacy, college access, teacher diversity and quality, welcoming and affirming school climates, and more.

What’s the Commitment?

The Youth Advisory Council is a year-long commitment, open to Minnesota high school students during their sophomore through senior years. The experience begins with a kick-off retreat in August, followed by monthly meetings on Wednesday evenings from September through May. Students will also have pre-work before meetings, and optional (but encouraged) advocacy opportunities during legislative session (January-May). Students should plan to commit 4-5 hours per month to the program, including one monthly meeting and pre-work, plus special events. 

Advisory Council members will receive a $75 monthly stipend, contingent upon participation, and meals during in-person events. Participants may also request transportation support for in-person events, if needed.

Program Dates

Participants will meet monthly from August-May, with the opportunity to visit the Capitol for a lobby day, hearings, and other optional events during the 2027 legislative session.

Kick-Off Retreat
  • Saturday, Aug 22, 2026, 11am-3pm
  • Twin Cities location (shared with selected participants)
  • Food provided and transportation support available.
Monthly Meetings
  • Wednesdays, 5:30-8pm
  • Location TBD
    • Sept. 16
    • Oct. 7
    • Nov. 4
    • Dec. 2
    • Jan. 6
    • Feb. 3
    • March 3
    • April 14
    • May 5
    • June 2

Council members must commit to attending 70% of the monthly meeting dates and the in-person retreat.

How Do I Apply?

Students currently in grades 9-11 may apply to serve on the 2026-27 Youth Advisory Council. Applications must be submitted by Sunday, May 17. Finalists will take part in a virtual interview in late May, with a final cohort selected by June 5.

APPLY TODAY!

Questions?