Texarkana Youth Advisory Council Applications Now Open

Applications are now open for the 2026–2027 Texarkana Youth Advisory Council (TYAC). The City of Texarkana, Texas, is accepting applications through Monday, September 7, 2026.

TYAC gives local high school students an opportunity to get involved in their community while gaining experience in leadership, civic engagement, and local government.

Students Get Hands-On Government Experience

Council members learn about municipal government, take part in community initiatives, provide input on issues affecting local youth, and work with community leaders and organizations.

Community Development Specialist and TYAC Liaison Chiquita Burks said one of the most rewarding parts of the program is seeing students develop confidence and discover ways they can make a difference.

“We’ve had the opportunity to watch so many young people come through this program and watch them build confidence and discover how they can make a difference in their community.”

TYAC members have also represented Texarkana at the State Youth Advisory Council and attended the National League of Cities Youth Summit in Washington, DC, where they meet other young leaders from across the country.

Who Can Apply?

Applicants must:

• Be a Texarkana, Texas resident
• Be enrolled in 10th, 11th or 12th grade
• Be at least 15 years old by September 1, 2026

The application period runs from August 24 through September 7, 2026.

How to Apply

Students can apply and find additional eligibility requirements and application instructions through the city's Youth Advisory Council webpage.

For more information, contact Chiquita Burks at 903-798-3943 or Chiquita.burks@texarkanatexas.gov.

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