Youth & Government is a statewide model legislature and court program for high-school students that encourages them to develop leadership skills and self-confidence that lasts a lifetime through the study of public issues, debate of public policy, writing of legislation, and an experience in the State Government process. While working throughout the year as jurists, attorneys, legislators and members of the press corps, students emerge as confident peer role models and young leaders at the annual model government session at the State Capitol.

Each school year over 2,000 California high school students come together for three annual conferences designed to teach students about the state government and the importance of civic responsibility. Delegations are formed by specific high schools and meet weekly from September until March. Delegates in Youth & Government also have the opportunity to