Youth Council

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2026-2027 National PTA Youth Council

Your Voice. Your Leadership. Your Impact.

Young people have powerful ideas, unique perspectives and the ability to create meaningful change in their schools and communities.

The National PTA Youth Council provides young people with opportunities to use their voices, strengthen their leadership skills, connect with other youth leaders and contribute their perspectives to work that impacts students, families, schools and communities.

Youth Council members have opportunities to engage in meaningful projects, national initiatives, leadership development and collaborations that elevate youth voice. Through National PTA's work with organizations and partners, Youth Council members may also gain exposure to unique opportunities to contribute their ideas, perspectives and leadership.

Applications for the 2026-2027 Youth Council are NOW OPEN! Applications will close Sept. 13.


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What is the Youth Council?

The Youth Council is a group of young leaders who bring their experiences, ideas and perspectives to conversations about issues that matter to students and their communities.

As a Youth Council member, you will have opportunities to collaborate with other young people, share your perspective, strengthen your leadership and advocacy skills and contribute to projects and initiatives that elevate youth voice.

Youth Council members are encouraged to bring their authentic experiences and ideas to the table. You do not need to have everything figured out or have years of leadership experience. We are looking for young people who are ready to participate, learn, collaborate and make their voices heard.

  • Share your ideas and experiences on issues affecting young people.

  • Collaborate with other youth leaders from different communities and backgrounds.

  • Build leadership, communication and advocacy skills.

  • Contribute youth perspectives to projects, programs and initiatives.

  • Participate in meetings, discussions, trainings and special events.

  • Help identify issues that matter to young people and explore ways to create meaningful change.

  • Represent and elevate youth voice within the broader PTA community.



Monthly Time Commitment

Youth Council members should expect to dedicate approximately three to five hours per month to Youth Council activities. Time commitments may vary throughout the year depending on training sessions, special projects and National PTA events. Typical activities include:

  • Monthly Mentor Meeting: Approximately 30 to 60 minutes with an assigned state PTA mentor.

  • Virtual Youth Council Meetings and Trainings: Approximately 60 to 90 minutes per session, including quarterly council meetings and scheduled leadership trainings.

  • Projects and Assignments: Approximately one to two hours per month for service project planning, content development, reflections, outreach or other Youth Council activities.

  • Event Preparation: Additional time may be required before major events, presentations or the National PTA Convention.

Members are expected to actively participate, communicate consistently with National PTA staff and fellow Youth Council members and balance their Youth Council responsibilities with school and other commitments.



Travel Requirements

Youth Council membership includes opportunities for required and potential in-person travel.

Participation begins with an in-person cohort training Nov. 12-14, which all members must be available to attend. Members may also participate in the National PTA Convention, where the Youth Council will help lead and facilitate the National Youth-Led Service Project.

Additional opportunities may include attending state PTA conventions, meetings, trainings or other National PTA events, when applicable.

For required National PTA-sponsored travel, flights or ground transportation will be arranged and funded by National PTA. Meals will be provided during the annual in-person training. Because Youth Council members are minors, a parent/guardian is required to travel with the Youth Council member (travel expenses paid), and parent/guardian consent, emergency contact information, travel authorization and other applicable safety documentation must be completed before travel.



Questions?


If you'd like to learn more or are interested in joining the youth council, contact Ashley Grays, Manager of Education & Leadership Development.