How Sioux Falls Students Can Join The Mayor's Youth Council

Empowering Tomorrow's Leaders: Join the Sioux Falls Mayor's Youth Council

Sioux Falls high school students have a unique opportunity to step inside our city government and see how decisions are made at City Hall.

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Dakota News Now is reporting that applications are now open for the Sioux Falls Mayor’s Youth Council for the 2026–27 school year, giving local students a chance to learn about leadership, public service, and the inner workings of our community.

The program is open to students who will be juniors or seniors during the upcoming school year, including those attending public schools, private schools, or those who are homeschooled.

A Commitment to Civic Engagement: Insights from Mayor Paul Ten Haken

According to Mayor Paul TenHaken, the program has continued to grow while keeping its most important goal the same - connecting young people with real civic experiences.

“Each year, the program has grown and evolved, but the relationships we build with the students remain invaluable year after year,” TenHaken said. “I’m grateful our city leadership team for MYC is committed to carrying this work forward across administrations, ensuring the next generation continues to gain meaningful, first-hand experiences with city government.”

What Youth Council Members Can Expect

Members of the council meet monthly throughout the school year and also participate in special activities and volunteer projects. Students selected for the program will meet with the mayor and other city leaders, tour city facilities, and gain a behind-the-scenes look at how their city operates.

The experience can even extend beyond Sioux Falls. Through volunteer and educational opportunities, council members may also take day trips to Pierre to see the South Dakota State Legislature in action.

Applications are due Saturday, April 4. Students applying will need to submit basic personal information, answer several short-response questions, and provide a letter of recommendation from a teacher or school staff member.

For students interested in leadership and making a difference in their community, the Mayor’s Youth Council offers a chance to gain valuable experience while helping shape the future of Sioux Falls.

Source: Dakota News Now

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9 Sioux Falls Streets Visitors Have A Hard Time Pronouncing

If you are visiting or new to Sioux Falls and trying to find your way around, chances are you really don't need to pronounce street names correctly. All you have to do is enter your destination into Google Maps and your phone will show you the way.

But what if you are trying to tell someone where your cool friend or family member lives in our fine city? Some of our streets and avenues have tricky spellings that may throw visitors for a loop when trying to sound them out.

No one is going to mess up on the big thoroughfares like Minnesota Avenue, Western Avenue, or Louise Avenue but what about these?

Gallery Credit: Ben Davis