The 2023 – 2024 YLA is scheduled for April 19-21, 2024.
Youth Legislative Assembly (YLA) is a mock legislative session where high school students voice their opinions and vote on issues concerning local, state, and national government.
The conference allows high school students an opportunity to gain a better understanding of the workings of local, state, and national government. Active participation in YLA increases the student's confidence and ability to debate current issues. Any high school student in good standing at a public, private, charter, or home school in North Carolina is eligible to participate in YLA. Just complete the student application; you do not have to have a member of the NC General Assembly to sponsor you to participate in the Youth Legislative Assembly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is there a cost to attend YLA?
The cost covers a 2-night hotel stay, meals, snacks, a t-shirt, transportation to the general assembly from the hotel, and educational materials.
Who can attend YLA?
Any high school student in good standing at a public, private, charter, or home school in North Carolina is eligible to participate in YLA.
Do you have to have a legislator to sponsor you to attend YLA?
Just complete the student application; you do not have to have a member of the NC General Assembly to sponsor you to participate in YLA.
Does my parent need to be a chaperone, for the event?
No, we have chaperones for the event as well as general assembly police that patrol the halls throughout the night, all chaperones have been background checked to be approved to chaperone the program.
What if my parent wants to be a chaperone?
They will need to complete a chaperone application and be willing to submit to a background check.
If my parent is a chaperone, can I stay in their room?
No, part of the program is interacting and working with other students.
When the student arrives at YLA, are the parents required to stay through orientation?
No. Once the students are checked in the parents can leave.
If I live in Wake County, do I need to stay at the hotel?
Yes, all students are required to stay at the hotel, because part of the program is interacting with other students.
Are we allowed to leave at any time?
NO- the only way you can leave is with a parent once a form has been completed and they produce their identification. If you leave without permission this will result in disciplinary action. Even if you come with a group. You must talk to the YLA coordinator before leaving. (Erica Gallion)
Do I need to send money with my child?
That is your choice. Some students chose to order pizza or cookies and have them delivered. Other some students want to purchase a soft drink or candy from the “snack area” of the hotel
What if I am not in high school, can I participate?
We have a few spots for 7th & 8th grade to serve as YLA pages. You must apply to participate as a page.
If you would like to be added to the interest list to be notified when applications are out please use the below link
https://ncgeneralassembly.formstack.com/forms/interested_in_yla
For more information contact Erica Gallion at (919) 301-1372 or Erica.Gallion@ncleg.gov