Youth Environmental Academy

An environmental leadership project

Are you…

A high school-aged student living in Fayette County?

Are you interested in…

• Connecting with youth from across the country who are making change in their cities?
• Getting access to paid internships and career opportunities?
• Talking with city officials and employees to learn about their work?
• Taking behind-the-scenes tours of key city sites?
• Improving your community and then celebrating with family and friends?
• Free food?

Program description

The Youth Environmental Academy (YEA) is a way to get to know the city. What does the government do? Who are the people doing the work? How are decisions made about what gets done? We are seeking high school students to connect with the Department of Environmental Quality and Public Works. See behind the scenes. Learn about paid internships and job opportunities. Meet doers and decision-makers. Connect with students from across the country to learn how they are improving their communities.

Topics covered include: waste management, urban forestry, stormwater, transportation and wastewater.

Implement projects related to the academy. Projects and budgets must be approved by the City. City staff will mentor you throughout the project process. 

Participant expectations

This program is in partnership with Fayette County Public Schools. High school-aged males of color from any Fayette County high school are welcome to apply regardless of GPA, environmental knowledge or transportation needs.

Applicants must be enrolled in high school and live in Fayette County. Homeschool students between the ages of 14 and 18 who are not yet considered graduated are also welcome to apply. Approval from parents/guardians is required.

Applications

Participant applications for the program will reopen in Spring 2023.

This is a fun learning opportunity specifically for males of color in partnership with Fayette County Public Schools that will teach you about different careers, jobs, and paid internships.