Shashank Ramasubramanian
6) How did you hear about the Youth Commission?
I learned about the Bakersfield Youth Commission through my school counselor while exploring opportunities to become more involved in serving my community.
As I researched the Youth Commission and learned more about its mission, I became excited by the opportunity to serve Bakersfield and represent the voices of young people. I was inspired by the chance to work alongside City leaders to address issues affecting local youth and contribute to meaningful, community-driven solutions. I would be honored to serve my community, advocate for my peers, and continue learning while making a positive and lasting impact as a Youth Commissioner.
7) Why would you like to become a Youth Commissioner?
I would like to become a Youth Commissioner because I want to serve Bakersfield by representing the voices of young people and helping address issues that affect our community.
I believe young people can bring valuable ideas and perspectives, and I want to help ensure those voices are heard.
Through my volunteer work with the Bakersfield Homeless Shelter, Citizens Climate Lobby, and other community organizations, I have seen firsthand how collaboration, thoughtful policies, and community partnerships can create meaningful change. These experiences have strengthened my commitment to public service and inspired me to become more involved in my community.
Serving on the Youth Commission would allow me to bring these experiences into meaningful discussions, listen to the concerns of my peers, and work alongside City leaders to develop practical solutions that expand opportunities for Bakersfield's youth. It would also be an opportunity to give back to the community that has supported me and helped shape who I am today, while continuing to learn, grow, and serve others. 8) What specific youth or community issues would you like to see addressed by the Youth Commission? Do you have any ideas on how the community should address those issues? One issue I would like the Youth Commission to address is youth and community homelessness, especially the lack of stable housing, employment opportunities, and coordinated support services. Many young people experiencing homelessness are motivated and capable but lack access to the resources that can help them regain stability. Addressing this issue requires more than temporary shelter—it requires clear pathways to independence.
One important step is expanding access to employment opportunities that match individuals' skills and help them regain independence. Through my volunteer work and community service, I have learned that lasting solutions require collaboration among local government, nonprofits, schools, businesses, and community organizations. The Youth Commission can help strengthen
Shashank Ramasubramanian
these partnerships by supporting workforce development, improving outreach to available resources, and advocating for policies that help individuals transition toward independence.
Another important issue is literacy and equitable access to education. Every student should have the opportunity to succeed regardless of their background or circumstances. The Youth Commission can partner with schools, libraries, nonprofits, and community organizations to expand tutoring and mentoring, partnerships with local libraries, after-school programs, and STEM enrichment opportunities. Investing in literacy and education empowers young people to reach their full potential while building a stronger future for Bakersfield.
I want to serve Bakersfield by representing the voices of young people and helping develop practical, community-driven solutions to these challenges. Through service, research, and volunteering, I have taken initiative to make a positive impact, and I am excited to continue learning, collaborating, and contributing as a Youth Commissioner. 9) The Youth Commission requires a time commitment from each student. Please list all other commitments you have during the school year (e.g., job, clubs, and sports), and in what ways are you prepared to dedicate time to meet the Commission’s goals? Your extracurricular activities will not disqualify your application.
During the school year, I am involved in the following activities School Clubs and Sports
Math Club (Founder)
Junior Varsity Tennis Player
Junior Varsity Mock Trial Competitor
Robotics Club
Mock Trial Club
Member of National Honor Society
Community Service and Leadership
Food Distribution Volunteer at Morning Star Bakersfield Policy writer at Citizens Climate Lobby
Fundraising Volunteer, Make-A-Wish Foundation
Fundraising lead and Digital content creator at Aakkam Foundation
Shashank Ramasubramanian
Academic Awards and Achievements
Congressional App Challenge Winner -2025
Kern County Math Olympiad Winner (Individual and Team)
Kern County Regional Science Fair Winner – 2023 & 2024 Kern County Regional Science Fair Runner-up – 2025
State-Level Robotics Team Member
Valedictorian,
Principal's Best Student Award
Kiwanis Club Best Student Award
STEAM Olympiad Winner
Despite these commitments, I am confident that I can dedicate the time needed to be an active Youth Commissioner. The Youth Commission would be one of my highest priorities, and I carefully manage my schedule to ensure that my responsibilities do not conflict with Commission meetings or activities. Through balancing rigorous academics, leadership roles, community service, and long-term projects, I have developed strong time-management, organization, and planning skills.
I am committed to being an active, reliable member of the Youth Commission. I will come prepared, participate fully, meet deadlines, and contribute meaningfully to initiatives that benefit the youth of Bakersfield. Serving on the Youth Commission is an opportunity I value greatly, and I am excited to dedicate my time and energy to making a positive impact in our community.
10) In order to have a valuable experience on the Youth Commission, it is important to have the support from a teacher or school administrator from your current high school. This person shall serve in a mentorship role throughout your term on the Youth Commission.
Please identify who will serve as your mentor (i.e., name and job title) and provide their contact information(i.e., phone number and email address). Also, please be advised that your mentor must sign the application and submit a letter of recommendation.
Mrs. Emilee Gonsalves
Counselor
[email protected]
661-588-8601
Mrs. Emilee Gonsalves, my school counselor, has been very supportive of my interest in serving on the Youth Commission and was enthusiastic about serving as my mentor. I am grateful for the opportunity to work with her and learn from her guidance as I represent Bakersfield’s youth and contribute to our community.
From: James Roy
To: Cari Cowling; Alexis Roy
Subject: Re: James Roy Youth Commission Application
Date: Wednesday, May 27, 2026 5:06:58 PM
Attachments: IMG_1675.png
CAUTION: This email originated from outside your organization. Exercise caution when opening attachments or clicking links, especially from unknown senders.
Good afternoon Mrs. Cowling,
Attached is my transcript
Respectfully,
James Roy
1/3
Youth Commission Application for Appointment
Student Name
First
Adam
Middle
J
Last
Brady
Gender (Male/Female)
male
Parent/Guardian Name
First
Deborah
Middle
J
Last
Brady
High School Information
High School
Centennial
Grade Level
11th
GPA
4.26 School Address
8601 Hageman
Rd
City
Bakersfield
County
Kern
State
CA
Zip
93312
Employment
Occupation (if applicable)
Sports Referee/Coach
Company
I9 Sports
Hours per Week
6 Address Address Line 2 City
Bakers
field
County
Kern
State
CA
Zip
93312
E-Filed
02/14/2026
15:24:37
Filing ID:
12873
2/3
Supplemental Questions
How did you hear about the Youth Commission?
Through John Eoh (a peer that serves the Youth Commission).
Why would you like to become a Youth Commissioner
To learn more about local government and make a difference in my community.
What specific youth or community issues would you like to see addressed by the Youth Commission? Do you have any ideas on how the community should address those issues? Things I would like to see addressed are juvenile justice, serving the disabled, and the less fortunate.
The Youth Commission requires a time commitment from each student. Please list all other commitments you have during the school year (e.g., job, clubs, and sports) and in what ways are you prepared to dedicate time to meet the Commission’s goals? Your extracurricular activities will not disqualify your application.
I am involved in leadership at my church youth group, JustServe, Entrepreneurship Club, and Bakersfield Police Departments Youth Diversion Program. I also run Varsity Track and Cross Country. I work as a referee and coach at i9 Sports, babysit for my family, and work at my schools sports concession stand. Other clubs and organizations I am in are Mock Trial, ASB, Blood Cancer United, seminary, National Honors Society, Spanish National Honors Society, Interact Club, Chemistry Club, and Redzone.
In order to have a valuable experience on the Youth Commission, it is important to have the support from a teacher or school administrator from your current high school. This person shall serve in a mentorship role throughout your term on the Youth Commission. Please identify who will serve as your mentor (i.e., name and job title) and provide their contact information (i.e., phone number and email address). Also, please be advised that your mentor must sign the application and submit a letter of recommendation.
This is Mrs. Orr, my former teacher and current National Honors Society advisor.
Is there any additional information that you feel would be helpful in reviewing your qualifications? I have a deep interest in politics and public service. I am currently drafting and proposing a bill to state legislators. The bill would mandate Youth Diversion Programs statewide in order to aide first time juvenile offenders in changing for a better future. 3/3
Authorization and Release
Signature of School Representative
RC
School Representative Signature Date
12/14/2026
Signature of Applicant’s Parent/Guardian
Deborah Brady
Parent/Guardian Signature Date
01/29/2026
Signature of Applicant
Adam Brady
Applicant Signature Date
01/29/2026
Applicant & Recommender Contact Information
Applicant Contact Information
Applicant Information
Date of Birth Email Address
Home Phone Cell Phone
Address
Home Address Address Line 2
City
Bakersfield
County
CA
State
CA
Zip
Recommender Contact Information
First Name
Marlana
Middle Name Last Name
Orr
Title
Teacher
Organization
Centennial High School
Relationship to student
NHS Advisor/Former Teacher
E-mail
[email protected]
Day Phone
(661) 706-6395
To Whom It May Concern.
It is with great enthusiasm that I recommend Adam Brady for the Bakersfield Youth Commission.
I
have
had
the
privilege
of
knowing
Adam
for
two
years
as
his
high
school
English
teacher
and
NHS
advisor.
During
that
time,
I
have
witnessed
his
exceptional
academic
discipline,
principled
leadership,
and
unwavering
commitment
to
civic
responsibility.
In
my
28 years
of
teaching,
I
have
encountered
only
a
few
students
with
the
intellectual
curiosity,
moral
character,
and
service-oriented
leadership
that
Adam
possesses,
and
I
believe
he
would
make
an
excellent
candidate
for
the
Bakerkersfield
Youth
Commission
Academically, Adam is a model of consistency and excellence. He has earned CFA recognition each
year
in
high
school
while
engaging
in
rigorous
coursework,
including
GATE,
AP,
honors,
and
Dual
Enrollment
courses,
and
also
served
as
a
concurrent
enrollment
student
at
Bakersfield
Community
College.
His
academic
success
is
not
the
result
of
mere
compliance
or
ease,
but
rather
of
a
genuine
desire
to
learn
and
grow.
In
class
discussions,
he
consistently
elevated
dialogue
through
thoughtful
analysis,
respectful
disagreement,
and
an
ability
to
connect
academic
content
to
real-world
issues,
particularly
those
related
to
civic
engagement
and
social
responsibility.
He
approaches
learning
not
merely
as
a
personal
achievement,
but
as
preparation
for
meaningful
contribution
and
betterment
of
the
communities
he
is
a
part
of.
Beyond the classroom, Adam is an extraordinary leader. As an active member of our Associated Student
Body
for
all
three
years
of
high
school,
he
distinguished
himself
as
a
student
who
leads
through
action,
humility,
and
accountability.
He
earned
the
respect
of
peers
and
faculty
alike
by
listening
carefully,
collaborating
effectively,
and
prioritizing
the
collective
good
over
personal
recognition.
I
have
witnessed
Adam’s
ability
to
bring
people
together
for
academic
and
community
needs,
while
facilitating
individual
and
collective
growth
for
all.
His
leadership
style
is
consistent
and
principled,
one
rooted
in
service
rather
than
status
or
accolades.
Equally impressive is his athletic achievement. As a cross-country and track athlete, Adam demonstrated
discipline,
perseverance,
and
resilience
at
the
highest
level,
ultimately
earning
school,
stadium,
and
meet
records
along
with
national
meet
qualifying
times.
Athletics,
for
him,
were
not
separate
from
academics
or
service,
but
an
extension
of
his
character.
He
modeled
balance,
time
management,
and
sportsmanship,
consistently
supporting
teammates
while
holding
himself
to
high
standards.
What most distinguishes Adam, however, is his profound commitment to civic engagement and justice.
As
a
youth
leader
in
his
church,
he
has
taken
on
meaningful
responsibility
mentoring
younger
students
and
organizing
service
initiatives.
Adam
on
the
launch
of
the
inaugural
Bakersfield
Giving
Machine.
As
a
part
of
the
worldwide
Light
The
World
campaign,
these
vending
machines
offer
a
chance
for
people
to
give
during
the
holiday
season,
with
100%
of
proceeds
going
toward
the
charity
of
the
buyer's
choosing.
Adam
consistently
demonstrates
a
maturity and sense of purpose well beyond his years. This commitment extends powerfully into his
work
with
the
Youth
Diversion
Program,
where
he
has
emerged
as
a
thoughtful
advocate
for
restorative
justice
and
civic
education.
Adam is actively working to transform a pilot initiative into Bakersfield’s first Youth Diversion Program,
a
program
designed
to
provide
first-time
juvenile
offenders
with
education,
accountability,
and
a
second
chance.
Over
the
past
three
years,
this
effort
has
already
helped
more
than
60 youth,
and
Adam
has
played
a
meaningful
role
in
shaping
its
vision
and
outreach.
His
work
reflects
a
sophisticated
understanding
of
the
American
legal
system
and
the
urgent
need
for
early
civic
education.
He
has
articulated,
with
clarity
and
conviction,
how
diversion
programs
can
reduce
repeat
youth
offenders,
strengthen
communities,
and
foster
long-term
civic
participation.
Adam
is
currently
meeting
with
local
representatives
and
working
to
draft
a
bill
to
present
to
state
senators
known
as
The
Youth
Diversion
Act
of
2026.
I do not doubt that his involvement in the Bakerkersfield Youth Commission would bring value to
the
program
and
our
community.
Please feel free to contact me should you require any additional information.
Sincerely,
Marlana Orr
August 12, 2026 To Whom It May Concern: I have had the privilege of knowing Jake Goessman during his 2 years thus far here at Bakersfield
Christian
High
School.
Jake
is
a
talented
and
brilliant
young
man.
He
is
dedicated
and
strives
to
achieve
success.
Regardless
of
what
the
class
discussion
entailed
or
project
was
in
classes,
Jake
consistently
shared
his
ideas
and
greatly
contributed
to
each
class.
Assigned
writing
tasks
were
answered
with
solid
skills
and
the
willingness
to
continuously
improve.
His
insight
has
grown
deeper
as
he
matured;
he
never
backed
down
from
any
challenge.
Another element of Jake’s character is his sense of community and his drive to be better.
Both
traits
are
exceptional
in
a
person
because
when
you
see
it,
you
know
that
such
a
person
has
potential.
His
numerous
accomplishments
in
both
academics
and
most
notably
in
the
Future
Farmers
of
America
(FFA)
have
set
him
apart
and
consistently
proved
his
dedication
to
rigor.
He
continued
to
achieve
Honor
Roll
each
semester.
Jake is such an energetic team player. He has strong interactions within a group; his loyalty
to
those
he
knows
and
cares
for
is
immediately
noticeable.
He
forms
a
bond
with
people,
and
he
seeks
out
community
with
them.
Jake
consistently
showed
leadership
and
lifted
the
spirits
of
others
through
both
his
words
and
his
actions.
He
is
an
incredibly
talented
student
with
a
bright
future.
Jake is an exceptional young man and a student whom I am proud to have at our high school
and
grateful
to
know.
I
hope
you
see
his
potential
and
his
abilities
and
that
you
will
sincerely
consider
him
for
this
prestigious
role.
Sincerely,
Rachel M. Welch Vice President of Academic Growth (661) 410-7000 ex. 5511 [email protected]
1/4
Youth Commission Application for Appointment
Student Name
First
Colby
Middle
B
Last
Tenter
Gender (Male/Female)
Male
Parent/Guardian Name
First
Christi
Middle
Last
Tenter
High School Information
High School
Garces Memorial High
School
Grade Level
12th
GPA
3.8 School Address
2800 Loma Linda
City
Bakersfield
County
CA
State
CA
Zip
93305
Employment
Occupation (if applicable) Company Hours per Week
Address Address Line 2 City County State Zip
E-Filed
08/18/2026
08:53:54
Filing ID:
13372
2/4
Supplemental Questions
How did you hear about the Youth Commission?
Parents
Why would you like to become a Youth Commissioner
I would like to become a Youth Commissioner because I believe young people should have a voice in decisions that affect them and their community. A few years ago, I experienced an unexpected health concern that required my parents to advocate for me and help me navigate a situation I never expected to face at my age. That experience taught me how important it is to have people willing to speak up for you, but it also encouraged me to learn to advocate for myself and others. I would like the opportunity to bring that perspective to the Youth Commission, represent other young people in Bakersfield, and contribute to making our community better.
What specific youth or community issues would you like to see addressed by the Youth Commission? Do you have any ideas on how the community should address those issues? I would like to see continued attention given to safe and accessible places for young people to spend their time, including parks, recreation facilities, and opportunities for sports and other activities. I also think student safety, vandalism, and making sure young people feel connected to their community are important issues. One way to address these concerns is to involve students directly by asking for their input through school surveys, meetings, and community events. I think young people are more likely to respect and take pride in their community when they feel like they have a voice in it.
The Youth Commission requires a time commitment from each student. Please list all other commitments you have during the school year (e.g., job, clubs, and sports) and in what ways are you prepared to dedicate time to meet the Commission’s goals? Your extracurricular activities will not disqualify your application.
Sports - Water Polo (Fall) and Swim (Spring)
In order to have a valuable experience on the Youth Commission, it is important to have the support from a teacher or school administrator from your current high school. This person shall serve in a mentorship role throughout your term on the Youth Commission. Please identify who will serve as your mentor (i.e., name and job title) and provide their contact information (i.e., phone number and email address). Also, please be advised that your mentor must sign the application and submit a letter of recommendation.
Candis Howlett, MS, PPS
School Counselor 661-327-2578;174
3/4
Is there any additional information that you feel would be helpful in reviewing your qualifications? I am excited to grow leadership skills and be part of the commission.
Authorization and Release
Signature of School Representative
Candis Howlett
School Representative Signature Date
08/17/2026
Signature of Applicant’s Parent/Guardian
Christi Tentet
Parent/Guardian Signature Date
08/17/2026
Signature of Applicant
Colby Tenter
Applicant Signature Date
08/17/2026
Applicant & Recommender Contact Information
Applicant Contact Information
Applicant Information
Date of Birth Email Address
Home Phone Cell Phone
Address
Home Address Address Line 2
City
Bakersfield
County State
CA
Zip
Recommender Contact Information
First Name
Christi
Middle Name Last Name
Tenter
Title
HR Director
Organization
City of Bakersfield
Relationship to student
Parent
4/4
E-mail Day Phone
1/5
Youth Commission Application for Appointment
Student Name
First
Shreya
Middle
Last
Parimoo
Gender (Male/Female)
Female
Parent/Guardian Name
First
Rohina
Middle
Last
Swaroop
High School Information
High School
Stockdale high school
Grade Level
10 GPA
3.9 School Address
Stockdale high
City
Bakersfield
County
USA
State
CA
Zip
93314
Employment
Occupation (if applicable)
Not e
Company
Hours per Week
Address
Address Line 2
City
County
State
Zip
Supplemental Questions
E-Filed
09/09/2026
18:57:10
Filing ID:
13430
2/5
How did you hear about the Youth Commission?
Internet
Why would you like to become a Youth Commissioner
I want to advocate for the youth in my city.
What specific youth or community issues would you like to see addressed by the Youth Commission? Do you have any ideas on how the community should address those issues? Gang violence, youth mental health, safe space for teens to talk and discuss problems The Youth Commission requires a time commitment from each student. Please list all other commitments you have during the school year (e.g., job, clubs, and sports) and in what ways are you prepared to dedicate time to meet the Commission’s goals? Your extracurricular activities will not disqualify your application.
I am actively involved in independent research
In order to have a valuable experience on the Youth Commission, it is important to have the support from a teacher or school administrator from your current high school. This person shall serve in a mentorship role throughout your term on the Youth Commission. Please identify who will serve as your mentor (i.e., name and job title) and provide their contact information (i.e., phone number and email address). Also, please be advised that your mentor must sign the application and submit a letter of recommendation.
Miss Angela self
[email protected]
661-665-2800 extension ;62051
3/5
Is there any additional information that you feel would be helpful in reviewing your qualifications? 4/5
Shreya Parimoo
Stockdale High School, 10 th Grade| Bakersfield, CA
Objective
Aspiring psychiatrist or psychiatry nurse practitioner with strong foundations in biomedical sciences, mental health research, and educational technology. Seeking opportunities to expand hands-on experience in psychiatry, emergency medicine, and youth-focused research.
Education
Stockdale High School, Bakersfield, CA – 10 Th Grade
Certifications
• Basic Life Support (CPR & AED) – certified for healthcare workers . Valley fever advocate
Research & Publications
Real-World Implementation of Video-Observed
Therapy for Tuberculosis Disease and Infection
Monitoring Across U.S. Health Departments: A
Systematic Review of Observational Evidence and
Sociodemographic Subgroup Outcomes
First author
On preprint journal – research square
https://www.researchsquare.com/article/rs-10759909/latest Real-World Diagnostic Accuracy of Fully Autonomous, FDA-Approved Artificial Intelligence Systems for Diabetic Retinopathy Screening in the United States: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis Shreya Parimoo Stockdale High School, Bakersfield, California, United States
https://jhsr.net/index.php/jhsr/article/view/80
Journal Articles
Teen Ink Submissions:
• If Country Names Were Truthful – Feb 16, 2026 (published) • If You Met Your Thoughts for Coffee – Feb 10, 2026 (published)
5/5
Authorization and Release
Signature of School Representative
Signed
School Representative Signature Date
09/09/2026
Signature of Applicant’s Parent/Guardian
Rohina swaroop
Parent/Guardian Signature Date
09/05/2026
Signature of Applicant
Shreya Parimoo
Applicant Signature Date
09/05/2026
Applicant & Recommender Contact Information
Applicant Contact Information
Applicant Information
Date of Birth Email Address
Home Phone Cell Phone
Address
Home Address Address Line 2
City
Bakersfield
County
Kern
State
CA
Zip
Recommender Contact Information
First Name
Angela
Middle Name Last Name
Self
Title
School counselor
Organization
Stockdale high school
Relationship to student
Counselor
E-mail
[email protected]
Day Phone
(661) 000-0000