Fargo Youth Initiative Transitions to Fargo Public Schools

The Fargo Youth Initiative (FYI) has officially transitioned from city oversight to the governance of Fargo Public Schools, a move anticipated to enhance student civic engagement. On December 22, 2023, the Fargo City Commission voted to transfer responsibility for the initiative, which consists of local high school students serving as an advisory body.

Officials have been reviewing the effectiveness of various boards in the city, leading to this strategic decision. Previously coordinated by the city’s Planning Department, the initiative aims to foster youth involvement in community decision-making. According to Commissioner Denise Kolpack, this change represents a significant opportunity for growth. “It really did take a village to find a new home for this, but I think it’s the next iteration of greatness,” she stated during the meeting.

Isabella Meyer, chair of FYI and a senior at Fargo North High School, emphasized the importance of youth voices in local governance. “The Fargo Youth Initiative has been a great way for us to be able to share our voice and our opinions on what actually works and what we actually need,” she remarked, highlighting the need for youth involvement in decisions that affect them.

Under the new arrangement, FYI will operate within Fargo Public Schools and will include liaison representatives from the Fargo City Commission, the Fargo School Board, and the Fargo Park Board, with potential for further expansion. The group will hold meetings at the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Red River Valley, which will also provide administrative support.

Robin Nelson, CEO of the Boys & Girls Clubs and vice president of the Fargo School Board, has been involved with the initiative since its inception in 2013. She believes this new structure will enhance the opportunities available for students. “Now that they’ve got some more direction, it’s really ignited their excitement,” Nelson said.

The liaisons expected to represent these boards include Kolpack from the City Commission, Kristin Nelson from the Fargo School Board, and Zoë Absey from the Park Board. The initiative’s proposed areas of focus encompass education on the North Dakota Century Code, open meeting regulations, and local governance policies.

Advocacy efforts will center on raising awareness about youth public health issues and homelessness, as well as promoting youth engagement in city, parks, and school policies. Community impact initiatives may involve organizing student-led events, service projects, and enhancing participation in local government meetings.

“Youth are a big percentage of our population, so the more they can learn about how our city governments work and serve as a conduit and voice for youth so they are heard at those elected levels, is beneficial,” Robin Nelson explained.

The initiative aims to recruit a total of 15 members and plans to hold monthly meetings to further engage students in civic matters. This transition marks a pivotal moment for the Fargo Youth Initiative, as it seeks to empower the next generation of leaders in the community.