Teen Council

The Overland Park Teen Council gives high school students a chance to learn how local government works.

During the school year, students explore city departments, attend committee meetings, take part in and lead service projects and connect with elected leaders.

Through these experiences, students build a deeper understanding of local government and develop valuable leadership skills.

Activities

Teen Council members meet one or two times a month, as the schedule varies from year to year. Each year, students meet for the following activities:

• Public Safety learning session
• Parks and Recreation learning session
• Public Works learning session
• Planning and Development services learning session
• Municipal Court learning session
• Small group meetings and dinner with council members
• Council meeting and council committee meetings
• Service projects

Meetings are typically in the late afternoon, evening or on weekends.

Eligibility

To participate, students must either live in Overland Park or attend a high school in Overland Park and be able to participate in all required Teen Council activities.

Leadership Positions

Teens who have completed at least one year of the Teen Council program are eligible to apply for youth liaison positions on one of three City committees:

• Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee
• Environmental Advisory Committee
• Legacy of Greenery Committee
• Mental Health Advisory Committee

Youth liaisons are encouraged to provide input on all topics related to the council or committee they serve, but are not voting members.

Teens who have completed at least one year of the Teen Council are also eligible to serve as Teen Council President, Vice President or Service Chair.

Applications

Applications for the 2025-2026 Overland Park Teen Council Program are closed. Please fill out the following form to receive information about future Teen Council opportunities.

2026-2027 Teen Council Interest Form