Alvarez launches program for South Bay high school students

Assemblymember David Alvarez is launching a new program designed to introduce high school students in the 80th Assembly District to state government and public service careers.

The Young Legislators Program will run from June through December, with six monthly sessions covering topics including state government, the legislative process, financial literacy, wellness and college preparedness. The first session is scheduled for June 27.

Alvarez said the program addresses a gap he experienced growing up.

“Growing up, I never knew what it meant to be serving in government and working in government and never really understood the different levels of government,” he said.

Lilianna Barba, a field representative in Alvarez’s district office who is coordinating the program, said the initiative will introduce students to a wide variety of professionals in both the private and public sectors.

“Programs like this also provide opportunities for students to develop professionally and receive the tools that are necessary to advance their professional career, and as they prepare for either a higher education or any other steps after high school,” Barba said.

Alvarez said civic education is a key component of the program. He noted that even now, constituents at his monthly community coffees often ask about municipal issues beyond his authority.

“I think government works best when people are informed about what government does,” he said.