Agenda packet — Dublin City Council, June 6, 2023 (part 7 of 9)

4. What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2023-2024 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities?* I will be participating in volleyball for school and club volleyball competitively. I will be occupied in this 2-3 days a week for about 3 hours from August to May. However, I will be able to devote my time to the Youth Advisory Council and will be able to make it to all the meetings that will be held.
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5. How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* I would get teens to participate and be involved in the community and teen events by spreading information on the events through social media, which many teens these days use. I would create engaging posts on my Instagram story and account to increase awareness of these events. I could highlight certain events that will occur that I think teens would be interested in and emphasize certain activities at those events that would interest them. Another way that could help teens in Dublin to come out to our events is to partner up with other organizations for fundraisers. We should partner with popular local businesses that most teens enjoy attending. If they participate, we could offer benefits and opportunities, which may make them want to be included in the events even more. For certain events, I could also highlight the benefits of it, ex: making new friends, exploring new activities, etc. I would also encourage classmates and friends to attend these events and maybe even participate in helping out with the event.
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6. Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting? If yes, what was the meeting date and what was the outcome of the item(s) you were interested in?* No, I have not.
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7. Provide at least one signed letter of recommendation from a non-family member (i.e. employer, counselor, teacher, coach, etc.). The letter of recommendation should be submitted with the application and must be received by the application deadline; otherwise, the application will be incomplete.

8. A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Upload Letter of Recommendation (required).*
Letter of Recommendation - Neha Nagra.pdf
Upload 2nd Letter of Recommendation (optional)
Choose File No file selected
Application materials must be submitted via this online application form. The application deadline is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 24, 2023. Applications or letters of recommendation will not be accepted after the deadline. 1193
It is my pleasure to recommend Neha Nagra for Dublin’s Youth Advisory Council. I am Neha’s 7th grade science teacher this year. She is a very bright student with a strong interest in math and science. But what stands out most for me is Neha’s upbeat, positive personality. Her warmth and good nature is what draws people to Neha. She would be a natural person to serve on the Youth Advisory Council for Dublin.

Stephanie Louris, PhD
7th grade science teacher
Fallon Middle School
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1. -- Completed Application Form-- At least one Letter of Recommendation The City of Dublin is looking for enthusiastic middle and high school students who live in Dublin to serve on the City’s Youth Advisory Committee (YAC) for the 2023-2024 term, which runs from June 1, 2023 to May 31, 2024. Application deadline is Friday, March 24, 2023, at 5:00 PM. LATE APPLICATIONS WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED.

Qualifications and General Information
Must be a Dublin resident, enrolled in middle, junior, or high school during the 2023-24 school year-- YAC Information Letter Application
This online application is the only available application. Use this online form to submit responses and to upload recommendations.

Letter of Recommendation
Your application must include at least one letter of recommendation from a non-family member (i.e. employer, counselor, teacher, coach, etc.) and must be signed. The letter of recommendation should be submitted with the application and must be received by the application deadline; otherwise, the application will be incomplete.

Application Submittal
Your completed application must be submitted via this online form. Application submittals must include the following items:

Questions
Please direct questions to Liz Eilliott, Recreation Supervisor, at 925-833-6645 or email First Name*
Maxim
Last Name*
Nesterovich
Street Address*
Print
Youth Advisory Committee Application 2023-2024 term - Submission #5708 Date Submitted: 3/19/2023
1195
City*
Dublin
State*
California
Zip*
94568
Email Address*
Phone Number*
What school will you attend in the 2023-2024 school year?* Wells Middle School
What grade will you be in during the 2023-2024 school year?* 7th grade

1. Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* I want to become a member of the YAC because I feel like I could make an improvement to the city of Dublin for the better, and propose ideas that will benefit our society and that could be implemented in Dublin. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

2. What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* Since i live in a house with two smaller siblings, I know the struggle when it comes to finding something fun to do. And since I know the struggle, I feel like I would be able to take this into consideration and come up with ideas on how to entertain children in Dublin.
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3. What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC could address these issues?*
I believe that teens are dealing with the issue of having to spend time driving to activities outside of school. The YAC could address that problem by making schools have more activities that could be practiced during time after school inside the schools themselves. This will help students bond with each other and hopefully help them gain interest in new activities. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

4. What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2023-2024 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities?* During the 2023-2024 school year, I will be involved in swimming, wrestling, piano lessons, and an advanced math course, integrated 1. I will be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

5. How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* As I learned from school, news travels really fast from person to person, so I feel like spreading the word to other teens is the best way to get them interested in being involved.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)
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6. Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting? If yes, what was the meeting date and what was the outcome of the item(s) you were interested in?* No, I have not recently attended a YAC meeting.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

8. A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Upload Letter of Recommendation (required).*
222A818F-E8CE-4AE0-8D46-1879A474BB45.jpeg
Upload 2nd Letter of Recommendation (optional)
Choose File No file selected
Application materials must be submitted via this online application form. The application deadline is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 24, 2023. Applications or letters of recommendation will not be accepted after the deadline. 1197
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Application Submittal
Your completed application must be submitted via this online form. Application submittals must include the following items:

Questions
Please direct questions to Liz Eilliott, Recreation Supervisor, at 925-833-6645 or email First Name*
Shuchi
Last Name*
Pannala
Street Address*
Print
Youth Advisory Committee Application 2023-2024 term - Submission #5766 Date Submitted: 3/23/2023
1199
City*
Dublin
State*
California
Zip*
94568
Email Address*
Phone Number*
What school will you attend in the 2023-2024 school year?* Wells Middle School
What grade will you be in during the 2023-2024 school year?* 8th Grade

1. Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* I want to become a member of the YAC because I love volunteering and getting involved in my local community. Last summer I participated in the 2022 LEAD program in Dublin, and there I had the opportunity to volunteer at summer camps (by helping the counselors). I also took formal training as part of the program. I really enjoyed this experience and look forward to participating again. I have also been volunteering to teach conversational English to (now) high schoolers in rural India for the past 3 years over virtual sessions. Iâ€™ve really enjoyed doing this as well, and the cultural exchange that came along with it. I also brought in two of my friends to join me in doing this, and weâ€™ve all had a lot of fun.This is where I developed my interest in leadership and volunteering and would now love to do more in my local community. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

2. What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* Some skills I have that could help me in YAC would be: LOCAL VOLUNTEERING AND LEADERSHIP EXPERIENCE WITH THE CITY OF DUBLIN: LEAD PROGRAM IN DUBLIN SUMMER OF 2022 - Last summer I participated in the 2022 LEAD program in Dublin, and there I had the opportunity to volunteer at summer camps (by helping the counselors). I also took formal training as part of the program and learnt a lot on being a Dublin Lead. This program has taught me good leadership skills INTERNATIONAL VOLUNTEERING AND LEADERSHIP EXPERIENCE: I have also been volunteering to teach conversational English to (now) high schoolers in rural India for the past 3 years over virtual sessions. Iâ€™ve really enjoyed doing this, and the cultural exchange that came along with it. I also brought in two of my friends to join me in doing this, and weâ€™ve all had a lot of fun. This initiative taught me a lot about being disciplined, time management, creating interactive sessions, dealing with teens from varied backgrounds, and cultural variations. PUBLIC SPEAKING AND VOICING OPINIONS: I have been doing Speech and Debate for about 2 years. This includes participation in a Model UN (Model United Nations) club for a few months, after school debate club at Wells, taking online coaching from top debaters, as well as participating in coaching and competitions led by the Dublin high school students I am currently enrolled in advanced acting/drama at school and have done several theater workshops and performances including lead acting roles in some initiatives. I also recently emceed for the Wells middle school talent show. I feel these experiences could help me in YAC, since Iâ€™m used to speaking in public because of them, and would make me more confident to speak in front of the committee and express my opinions. WRITING SKILLS - AUTHORED A CHILDREN'S STORYBOOK: I authored an illustrated childrenâ€™s storybook, â€œKnight before the first day of schoolâ€. It is available on Amazon and other online bookstores. I feel my writing skills can help me put my thoughts across at YAC, and also help with any communications, such as flyers and other content that we can develop to engage teens. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)
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3. What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC could address these issues?*
Iâ€™d like to highlight two specific issues Iâ€™ve noticed in recent times: NOT ENOUGH FOOD IN PUBLIC MIDDLE SCHOOL CAFETERIAS: When students get free school lunch from the cafeteria, most of the time it isnâ€™t sufficient for their appetite.

A solution to this problem could be to add leftover lunches to the snack bar (where students can pay for additional snacks such as chips or frozen yogurt) at school. If we add them to the selection of snacks here, then students can get a second serving of the food that they have for lunch if they still are hungry (by paying for it). I noticed that they implemented this solution at another school in San Ramon district that I temporarily attended. The YAC could probably brainstorm more ideas about this, and present it to DUSD, to implement a solution to the problem. MANY TEENS AREN'T VERY INCLUSIVE: Iâ€™ve noticed this problem in two middle schools that I attended this year - Some kids arenâ€™t very inclusive. When new students join new schools or move into a new city, many times existing students ignore these kids and donâ€™t easily include or welcome them in their groups. I think this could be because they have already got their own groups and friends, or perhaps they just donâ€™t want to invite new people in their circle. Iâ€™m not fully sure of how we can solve this problem yet, but if I get into YAC, I would like to bring this up. Hopefully with everyoneâ€™s input we can figure this out These are two important issues that I think we should address quickly. If we can fix it sooner, maybe we could roll out solutions for the upcoming school year of 2023-2024. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

4. What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2023-2024 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities?* I understand from the website for YAC, that meetings are conducted every fourth Wednesday of the month. If I am able to join the YAC, I would prioritize it, and not schedule anything on the meeting days. I am currently involved in and plan to continue a few activities after school such as debate, Stanford Math Circle, acting/drama, and basketball, but I believe I would be able to manage these activities along with YAC.
(This boxcan be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

5. How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* To spread the word about upcoming events and activities, I would do the following: SPREAD THE WORD WITH ANNOUNCEMENTS AT SCHOOL: I would talk to my middle schoolâ€™s office staff to check if we could announce the events in the daily announcements that happen every morning. I attend Wells Middle School, and we could ask the kids in the committee that currently go to Fallon, Dublin High, Cottonwood, and the new Emerald High School to do the same thing. All the teens in Dublin will be attending one of these schools, so this way itâ€™ll be easy to spread the word. SPREAD THE WORD WITH FLYERS: We could create our own flyers to hand out around the city or place in mailboxes. We could also post them around Dublin like on bulletin boards and other places commonly checked for events. FREQUENT EMAILS TO CITIZEN OF DUBLIN: We could also send emails to everyone in Dublin (or ask DUSD to send them to all middle and high schools) to make sure everyone knows about all thatâ€™s happening around. For the Anti-Vaping PSA contest, the district sent emails to all students in middle and high school, and it seems like the idea worked. We could do the same thing. WORD OF MOUTH:

And finally, we could all speak to our friends and classmates and spread the word about events happening by telling them in person. Once they hear about it and they feel itâ€™s interesting to them, they may tell their friends about it, too. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

6. Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting? If yes, what was the meeting date and what was the outcome of the item(s) you were interested in?* I havenâ€™t attended any of the meetings yet, but I have taken a look at the agendas and minutes of a few past meetings to get a better understanding of what YAC does. One thing that really interested me was in the minutes for the January 25, 2023 meeting, where everyone was able to join a separate group to volunteer at one of the following events: - Eggstravaganza - St.

Patrickâ€™s Day Fair - Teen Job Career Fair - Hackathon Iâ€™m excited to do similar things for the committee! Hopefully, Iâ €™ll see you next year!
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8. A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place. 1201
Upload Letter of Recommendation (required).*
doc 1.jpg
Upload 2nd Letter of Recommendation (optional)
doc 1.jpg
Application materials must be submitted via this online application form. The application deadline is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 24, 2023. Applications or letters of recommendation will not be accepted after the deadline. 1202
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Application Submittal
Your completed application must be submitted via this online form. Application submittals must include the following items:

Questions
Please direct questions to Liz Eilliott, Recreation Supervisor, at 925-833-6645 or email First Name*
Norah
Last Name*
Parampath
Street Address*
Print
Youth Advisory Committee Application 2023-2024 term - Submission #5793 Date Submitted: 3/24/2023
1204
City*
DUBLIN
State*
CA
Zip*
94568
Email Address*
Phone Number*
What school will you attend in the 2023-2024 school year?* The Quarry Lane School
What grade will you be in during the 2023-2024 school year?* 10 1. Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* Green. That's all my 10-year-old self could see as I stood on the edge of Dublin boulevard, squished under a blur of bodies all decked out in an assortment of green hats, streamers, and beads that seemed to beam against the March midday sun. The sound of trombones began to reverberate through the streets; the St Patricks Day Parade had started. I was immediacy hoisted up onto my father's shoulders to be met with an ariel view of the same crowd that had crushed me just minutes before. I could see every shade of green glimmering against the black road filled with marching bands walking down the path in tall strides. That moment sparked a desire inside of me; I wanted to see everyone and everything inside Dublin despite my age. As I began to grow older, I found myself in more and more opportunities to connect with the community I once felt unseen by. It seemed impossible initially, as someone who spent their lunch time delving into the next Harry Potter book, but as time went on, I began to speak up more and more. I practiced raising my hand and speaking confidently in the solitude of my own room until, eventually, I began to speak up in class and felt that facade of confidence blur into reality. I began to pitch my ideas to my girl scout troop, who I eventually worked with to create a small sidewalk library for the kids in my area whose parents' work schedules prevented them from going to Dublin's public library. Needless to say, I've changed a lot from my 10-year-old self, but one of the most integral differences is how I perceive my abilities as an adolescent. I used to view my age as that thing holding me back from reaching my true potential, as though it's the catalyst for my faults. Now, I only see it as further motivation to grow. Armed with this mindset shift, I've seen my abilities flourish, and I feel confident in my capacity to introduce new projects and contribute to old ones in a way that strengthens the Dublin community and its youth. I have seen in previous years how members' discussions about ideas like the Youth Mental Health Forum have improved Dublin's population and youth, and I would love to be part of those discussions. I believe the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee will be an incredible opportunity for me to express and execute my ideas about improving dublin. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

2. What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* Through my experiences completing numerous community service projects, including my silver award through girl scouts, I am able to execute and plan projects whilst still abiding by realistic guidelines. My prior experiences planning camps, fundraisers, and toy drives have taught me time and resource management and how to collaborate with others to solve roadblocks properly.

I have prior experience interacting with members of the Dublin community and council as well. Through my school's JSA (Junior State of America), I was able to interview council member Jean Josey about issues that were important to my peers and me.

This experience gave me knowledge about the council system and its current set of priorities that I believe would be valuable to bring to the YAC.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)
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3. What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC could address these issues?*
Mental Health has been a primary issue among teens in my community. Despite how individual this issue seems to be, I believe the YAC could continue to set up opportunities like the Mental Health forum to provide more outreach communities. In my old school (Fallon Middle School), PEAC was a widely effective club that helped students find someone to talk to in effort to potentially improve their mental health. This peer-to-peer interaction that has worked in Fallon Middle School could be done through a larger forum like the YAC. Additionally, I believe YAC can work to create more events centered around the arts as it can be a substantial outlet for teens struggling with their mental health and just overall better the community. I believe YAC could work more closely with the high school to put on events surrounding visual arts to potentially display teens' artwork and create new ones. YAC could additionally work more closely with the high school's theater department to help them put on a more large-scale productions.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

4. What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2023-2024 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities?* I am involved in Girl Scouts, Debate, the Magazine Club, JSA, and art camp. As most of these activities occur in school, I will have time after school for YAC meetings and activities. (This boxcan be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

5. How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* As head marketing director for my school's magazine club, I know how to utilize social media marketing for events, fundraisers, and clubs to best appeal to the younger generation. This also means that I know how to write/speak about events in an enticing way. Because of Girl Scouts, I have been thoroughly intertwined with the Dublin community and have prior connections and experiences advertising fundraisers with people who are interested. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

6. Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting? If yes, what was the meeting date and what was the outcome of the item(s) you were interested in?* n/a
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

8. A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Upload Letter of Recommendation (required).*
Norah Parampath- Letter of Recommendation.pdf
Upload 2nd Letter of Recommendation (optional)
Choose File No file selected
Application materials must be submitted via this online application form. The application deadline is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 24, 2023. Applications or letters of recommendation will not be accepted after the deadline. 1206
Letter of Recommendation
To Whom it May Concern,
I am writing to recommend Norah Parampath to the Youth Advisory Committee in Dublin. Norah is passionate in her pursuits to understand the related topics within the social sciences sphere and applying them within her community. She is serious in building her awareness of historical movements, especially in considerations of the impacts they have had on modern communities, and within the social, economic, and judicial spheres of society. She is highly interested in understanding community dynamics and implementing activities within those communities towards the goals of promoting diversity, inclusion, and equality.

Norah has proven herself to be motivated in gathering ideas, seeking solutions, advocating for just and fair treatment, and presenting solution ideas for consideration and implementation. As examples of her valuable qualities in a committee setting, she has demonstrated strong leadership qualities, and especially skills in cooperation, in both class and club group projects. She is involved in debate and understands the pressures of gathering information and providing clear ideas in presentations and works well in group projects that require both individual and group cohesion of information and documentation. She is highly involved in group discussions in my World History Honors class, and easily connects information and deeper meaning in texts and lecture material.

She has proven herself to be inquisitive, energetic, sociable, and quick to understand topics, and underlying implications of themes, actions, and ideas, that are presented in the educational setting. She easily conveys her ideas in clear and well-organized formats, both verbally and written, and displays a great thoroughness with her attention to detail.

I am confident that Norah Parampath would be a strong and advantageous addition to Dublin’s Youth Advisory Committee, and I highly recommend her to the program and the advances that the Youth Advisory Committee develops and implements towards the betterment of the city of Dublin.

Sincerely,
Stacey Figueiredo
Upper School History Faculty
The Quarry Lane School
Dublin, CA 94568
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Application Submittal
Your completed application must be submitted via this online form. Application submittals must include the following items:

Questions
Please direct questions to Liz Eilliott, Recreation Supervisor, at 925-833-6645 or email First Name*
Shriyadita
Last Name*
Poduval
Street Address*
Print
Youth Advisory Committee Application 2023-2024 term - Submission #5754 Date Submitted: 3/23/2023
1208
City*
Dublin
State*
CA
Zip*
94568
Email Address*
Phone Number*
What school will you attend in the 2023-2024 school year?* Fallon Middle School
What grade will you be in during the 2023-2024 school year?* 7th

1. Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* I moved to Dublin in 2021, and I love this city. I always think of how I can contribute to making our city better and find opportunities to give back. I am very passionate about advocating for preventing homelessness, promoting gender equality and inclusion, promoting kindness and civility in our schools, and preventing animal cruelty. I believe that being part of the Dublin Youth Advisory Council will give me an opportunity to meet and work with other young people who are equally passionate about this, and together we would be able to do something that helps our community. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

2. What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* I have been taking up activities that bring together groups of students for some time now. In my 5th grade at Kolb Elementary, I started a class newsletter and got the entire class to contribute. I am currently part of two initiatives at Fallon â€“ I am part of the Political Action Committee and a â€œPresidentâ€™s Buddyâ€ at GirlUp. GirlUp is a girl-centered leadership development initiative, focusing on equity for girls and women in spaces where they are unheard or underrepresented. I am also part of the Advisory Council for Girls4Sports â€“ an initiative run by DHS students to promote girl participation in sports. I love to speak and participate in oratory competitions (https://patch.com/california/dublin/kolb-elementary-student-wins-national-speechcompetition-nodx). I love to read, and especially to research and understand the many perspectives a single problem can have! I am currently part of the â€œAdvocates of Dublinâ€ program and will be presenting my work (on engaging the youth to help with the homelessness problem) to the city council in the coming weeks. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)
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3. What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC could address these issues?*
I believe that the teens in Dublin deal with many of the same issues as the teens in other US cities, but I can think of some issues that are specific to us. One common issue all teens face is bullying (both cyber and physical) in schools and in other settings, along with use of racist, sexist, and homophobic slurs. Even though the school district has strict policies against bullying, such incidents still exist. The YAC could help with sponsoring and promoting anti-bullying peer support groups at school. Another relevant topic is the interest in trying out Vaping. The YAC could promote a citywide Anti-Vaping campaign to spread awareness about the dangers of Vaping. Some issues I think are more specific to our city include the high-pressure academic expectations and highly competitive schools. The YAC could help with program that aim to promote mental well being and help students with support groups. The YAC could recruit recent graduates and young professionals from our city to regularly talk to our high school and middle school students about their experience coping with high pressure competitive environments as well as different career opportunities that exist in the job market. The median household income in Dublin is 89% more than the state average and over 125% the national average. This means that most of the teens growing up in Dublin do not experience, or are probably aware of, the problems that low-income neighborhoods face. My parents constantly tell me about the struggles people in other parts of the country and in other low income cities face. Personally, I would like the YAC to drive some programs that make the youth in our city aware of the broader problems facing the state and the country and help us become more empathetic citizens.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

During this coming school year, I plan to continue my involvement with GirlUp and Girls4Sports. My regular extracurricular activities include music lessons (Indian Classical), dance lessons (Indian Classical), and basketball. (This boxcan be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

5. How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* I think the best way to get teens involved is to reach out to them via the schools. The YAC could organize and lead a monthly meeting of student council leaders from Wells, Fallon, Cottonwood, DHS and EHS (in 2024) to update them about upcoming teen events and city sponsored activities. The student council can then engage students in the school much more effectively.

Perhaps, the YAC could sponsor a student club dedicated to promoting and helping with city-sponsored activities in each of the middle/high school. In addition, these meetings could also be an opportunity to get inputs on the type of activities and events the teens are interested in seeing. I also hope that the YAC can be an advocate to push the city council to open a Youth or Teen Center similar to the Senior Center that the city already has. The Teen Center could then act as a safe space to "hang out" for the youth/teens in our city to come together and engage. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

6. Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting? If yes, what was the meeting date and what was the outcome of the item(s) you were interested in?* No
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

8. A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Upload Letter of Recommendation (required).*
Shriyadita_Rec_1.pdf
1210
Upload 2nd Letter of Recommendation (optional)
Shriyadita_Rec_2.pdf
Application materials must be submitted via this online application form. The application deadline is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 24, 2023. Applications or letters of recommendation will not be accepted after the deadline. 1211
Ish Amitoj Kaur
To Whom it May Concern
This is a letter of recommendation for Shriyadita Poduval. I have had the pleasure to work with Shriyadita as her Director at ‘The Theater Factory’. She is a team player and exhibits exemplary leadership and acting skills. Her participation in our Original Oratory Incubator Series exemplifies her abilities to express and deliver her thoughts, which are truly exceptional for her age.

Shriyadita is a very bright child. She will thrive in and be an asset to any institution or organization. Following her current path, Shriyadita has the potential to be a remarkable asset and alumni.

Ish Amitoj Kaur
Founder, CEO, The Theater Factory
Creative Director, Rrooar Coding & Robotics Academy
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Application Submittal
Your completed application must be submitted via this online form. Application submittals must include the following items:

Questions
Please direct questions to Liz Eilliott, Recreation Supervisor, at 925-833-6645 or email First Name*
Anish
Last Name*
Potta
Street Address*
Print
Youth Advisory Committee Application 2023-2024 term - Submission #5750 Date Submitted: 3/23/2023
1214
City*
Dublin
State*
CA
Zip*
94568
Email Address*
Phone Number*
What school will you attend in the 2023-2024 school year?* Dublin High
What grade will you be in during the 2023-2024 school year?* 12 1. Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* I have been involved in different community programs. Through our school communication I came across YAC. I have been Dublin resident from last 13 yrs. I want to be part of this program to serve our community, advise local leadership on issues facing youth, provide ideas for youth program, work on youth program initiative, gain college and work/internship preparedness, and make connections and friendships. I want to make Dublin a great place for all families/friends and make sure the community is great community. We have lot of teen talent in Dublin and I would like to initiate small group and programs and showcase talent to Dublin and beyond.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

2. What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* I have different skills and make me as strong candidate for YAC. 1. I have 2 yrs. community service for about 220+ hrs. 2. In my current school year, I ran campaign for HOCO Royalty and student chosen me Royalty winner. 3. I have working experience by tutoring children at Kumon as of now, Math Olympiad and tutoring children through zoom with subjects that they have struggles in. Overall with the work experience that I have I can prove and show that I can be a strong candidate for my city and improvise/make Dublin a great city.
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3. What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC could address these issues?*
- An issue that all teens that are dealing in Dublin is that students need more programs in school with the sufficient funding so all teens can succeed above and beyond. Programs could be up to 2-3 programs a month in school by having the option to go or not. Also we can call out different parents and startup companies and give a broad idea about the company and experience on technology, entrepreneurship, etc. Usually budget always become one factor. Using Dublin residents resources is one way get lot guidance to teens is helpful, also perform fundraisers to sponsor for events, mentors and advisors from working companies to organize events as needed.
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4. What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2023-2024 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities?* I am currently in Dublin High Junior Varsity member in Tennis. Also I work weekly once on Kumon to teach other kids. Next year I will be doing tryouts for Tennis to be selected in Tennis team as one of the activity. If I got opportunity to serve in YAC, I will definitely devote my time to work for teen community needs propose different ideas and work on different teen initiatives. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.) 1215

5. How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* Create a community channel to spread word through school and other channels to subscribe provide updates on different initiatives, Once the city has initiatives for teens, posts could be spread out through community channels, communication to all students, and through social media accounts to reach out to teens and parents. Another way of sponsoring different city activities is giving the work to our school district so they can spread the word to all students and they are more likely to participate in the City-sponsored activities.
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6. Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting? If yes, what was the meeting date and what was the outcome of the item(s) you were interested in?* No.
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8. A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Upload Letter of Recommendation (required).*
Anish Potta Recomendation Letter.pdf
Upload 2nd Letter of Recommendation (optional)
Choose File No file selected
Application materials must be submitted via this online application form. The application deadline is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 24, 2023. Applications or letters of recommendation will not be accepted after the deadline. 1216
To Whom It May Concern:

I had the pleasure of working with Anish Potta for the past two years as a mentor and director for his community services at Empower And Excel non-profit organization. I am more than happy to recommend Anish Potta as your new talent to the organization.

Empower And Excel’s mission is to empower youth to give back to the community by involving in community service.

Anish has been actively involved in our youth volunteer service programs. He has made a fine contribution to the community in need. He has assisted in diversified projects through our organization’s service activities, including cooking & serving at homeless shelters and donations drives. His favorite activity is to serve the unhoused population.

He became a dependable volunteer with his persistent efforts and commitment to the community. Just between April 2022 to Mar 2023 alone, Anisha has given 150 hours to the community.

I have found him to be a diligent individual who is always willing to help others and easy to work with. His caring nature and personality allow him to work well with others, as he always respects others. I recommend that you accept Anish’s application and consider him for the position he is applying for. I am sure he would not let you down and would be as great an asset to you as he has been to our organization.

Please contact me if you have any questions or want to know more about him.

Sincerely,
Ayesha Charagulla
Ayesha Charagulla
CEO
Empower And Excel
San Jose, CA -U.S.A
P.O. Box 21555, San Jose, CA – 95151 Phone:
[email protected] www.empowerexcel.org www.facebook.com/empowerandexcel 1217

Application Submittal
Your completed application must be submitted via this online form. Application submittals must include the following items:

Questions
Please direct questions to Liz Eilliott, Recreation Supervisor, at 925-833-6645 or email First Name*
Nikhil
Last Name*
Prabhu
Street Address*
Print
Youth Advisory Committee Application 2023-2024 term - Submission #5858 Date Submitted: 3/24/2023
1218
City*
Dublin
State*
CA
Zip*
94568
Email Address*
Phone Number*
What school will you attend in the 2023-2024 school year?* Dublin High School
What grade will you be in during the 2023-2024 school year?* 11th Grade

1. Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* Being part of the Youth Advisory Council would be an honor, as I would be able to represent the teenage population of Dublin to the best of my ability at a citywide scale. My first reason why I am interested in joining the YAC is to find ways to allow teens to showcase their talents on a city and community level. One such area of leveraging these talents is through computer science. Currently, I am working on developing a mobile/web app that connects restaurants that have produced excess amounts of food that hasnâ€™t been served to homeless shelters that are desperate for rations. In addition, I am putting together a non-profit that aims to teach the basics of computer science in foreign countries that might not have access to adequate resources and assistance. It is essential for teens like me to become active in their communities, and try their very best to make sure that people in lower-income communities are given the aid that they require. Being part of YAC would also give me the platform I need to work with likeminded peers to solve problems we are passionate about, such as climate change, youth mental health, racial inequality, crime, and more. We would be able to gain the insight of prominent community individuals, such as the mayor, to create awareness events and forums where community members could communicate about their experiences, and we could come to a consensus and create a vision for the future we want to achieve in the city of Dublin, one person at a time.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)
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2. What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* I believe that being part of YAC requires me to be a strong community leader, and I have demonstrated this through various ways. I would personally describe myself as a problem-led leader; this is how I can work at my best. I have realized issues with varying magnitudes in my community, and have tried to lead an initiative to solve those problems. One such instance is noticing the lack of knowledge in the areas of finance among my peers. As a result I have founded and and am currently running the first-ever entrepreneurship club at my middle and high school to account for this gap. In this club, I would select important concepts to discuss with my fellow peers. Some of them include new product concept brainstorming and implementation, the structure of a corporate company, types of investments, and more. With this knowledge, members were able to pitch their very own products in a Shark Tank-style competition that involved Silicon Valley professionals. I continued the club in high school, where I arranged entrepreneurship competitions to participate in, such as the Junior Achievement Company Program. On top of this, we are participating in prestigious investing competitions. Our club has more than 40 members, so I am proud that we are making an impact on so many entrepreneurs. A second example of this is realizing the degradation of mental health with both adults and children. But unfortunately, this issue has been disregarded, due to it not being considered a serious issue. But a few peers and I decided to step up and take charge to alleve this issue. I became the Chief Sales Officer of the company, Plant the Seed. The companyâ€™s mission is to facilitate creativity and advocate for mental health through natural means. We have created a customizable mini verdure vessels which consumers can grow their own plants with! It has been proven that growing a plant can drastically reduce stress levels, so this is a great way for toddlers to seniors alike to wind down, relax, and connect with nature. As part of sales, I have connected with multiple prospects to establish partnerships to become profitable, and have raised $500. Just recently, we participated in the annual Saint Patrickâ€™s Day Fair, and sold dozens of products. Our profits were sent to the Child Mind Institute, which is an organization that aims to improve the mental well-being of children all over the world. An integral part of the committee is spearheading volunteer events to serve the community, and I believe I have a plethora of experience with this, due to my participation in my Scouts of America Troop. Through dedication and hard work, I was honored to achieve the pinnacle of the program, earning the distinguished rank of Eagle Scout. Throughout my scouting tenure, I served as Patrol Leader and Assistant Senior Patrol Leader, planning and executing service projects for the community such as building structures for religious centers and leading conservation projects. This lead me to earn over 50 hours of volunteer work, and have over 20 nights of camping experience, where I had to plan logistics and leading a group of scouts through overnight outings in the wilderness. Next, through my robotics team, I have proved my propensity to enrich the values of STEM in my community. I was able to write and receive several persuasive grants from the likes of NASA, the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, and East Bay Community Energy. The team has earned over $20,000 in funds, and we have used this money for education programs, and to buy laptops for students who were unable to afford them. On the side, I collaborated with peers to publish the first ever newsletter, and have participated in a few community events. To conclude, I possess a diverse range of skills and experiences, including leadership, event planning, volunteer work, and raw community connection, that makes me a strong candidate for the YAC.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

3. What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC could address these issues?*
I believe that teens in Dublin are currently dealing with the issue of lacking apathy for philanthropic work. As a teen, I believe that we are in an ivory tower, and it is important that we use our privilege to help others. One way to do this is by leveraging the YAC to find ways to unlock the potential of young individuals, for the benefit of our own community. This can especially be applied teens who are looking to differentiate themselves in college applications, and they can be able to do this by making the difference in their communities. Through YAC, I plan to recruit teens who possess various skills and academic backgrounds to come together and help out a target community. For example, I could organize a technology drive to donate computers and other technical essentials for children in â€œthird-worldâ€ labeled countries, who donâ€™t have access to resources we currently do. This would require individuals from the backgrounds of technology, business, and marketing to come together and find a method to accomplish the end goal. I am sure that we have many passionate candidates that would be willing to get the job done. Additionally, mental health is an important issue that needs to be addressed. A possible solution could be to create an AI app that serves as a student assistant, entertaining students, helping them manage time, and aiding them with academic problems. I could use the YAC as a platform to roll it out by getting a development team together, and we would be able to hone our skills in programming to prevent mental health issues from worsening in magnitude. We could also hold mental health forums with the community in order to address these issues as a collective, and find solutions that will actually play out. By addressing these issues, we can help our community thrive and become more inclusive as a whole. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

4. What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2023-2024 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities?* Here are the following activities I will be taking a part of in the upcoming school year -Entrepreneurship Club -Boy Scouts - Nonprofit -App Innovation Idea -FBLA -Science for the Bay nonprofit -My Alcohol Stories nonprofit With the current YAC scheduling, I would be able to attend all the meetings. As for devoting times for activities, I am confident I can find time for issues I am passionate about. I will devote some time every weekend to work on pending tasks, and set reasonable deadlines for myself and other councilmembers.
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5. How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* Getting other teens involved in my community is one of my main focuses at the council. I plan to promise volunteer hours to teens in order to incentivize participation in events. In addition, I want to host more competitions in specific skill areas, so that we ensure that more young children are able to showcase their talent, or discover a passion they thought they would never be a part of! One example I can think of is hosting a hackathon or a maker fair, where the youth are able to participate in this event to showcase their innovations. What this means for the community is that more children will feel a connection with Dublin (as they are able to engage with other citizens, exhibit their talent at a citywide scale), and hopefully use their intellectual ideas to positively impact others. A great incentive which could be leveraged is doling out leadership positions to teens that deserve them. That way, we have a dedicated team, willing to put in the work to make our events successful. I have a plethora of experience with marketing, which comes from robotics. I was able to market the teamâ€™s robot and effort in our competition in such a way that we were able to win the Judgeâ€™s Award. I also worked to increase our member count by over 150%. I will transfer these skills to the council, and guarantee our city is able to support the next generation of artists, athletes, scientists, politicians, and everything in between.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

6. Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting? If yes, what was the meeting date and what was the outcome of the item(s) you were interested in?* I have not attended any of the meetings, but I have been checking the meeting notes and agendas. I really thought the hackathon that the council was working on was a unique idea, and I think we could build something off of that by connecting with tech companies or small businesses looking for youth talent. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

8. A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Upload Letter of Recommendation (required).*
Recommendation Letter for Nikhil Prabhu (2).pdf
Upload 2nd Letter of Recommendation (optional)
Choose File No file selected
Application materials must be submitted via this online application form. The application deadline is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 24, 2023. Applications or letters of recommendation will not be accepted after the deadline. 1221
March 21, 2023
To Whom It May Concern:

It is with great pleasure that I recommend Nikhil Prabu for participation in leadership programs! First, an introduction: I am Brad Vereen, Advanced Placement (AP) Chemistry teacher at Dublin High School in the Dublin Unified School District in Dublin, CA. I have been a teacher for 20 years, at levels ranging from 6th grade science to lecturing in graduate courses in the School of Business and Economics at CSU East Bay.

Nikhil is a student in my AP Chemistry class. At DHS, AP Chemistry is a University of California (UC) “d” lab science. It is typically taken by students intending to take the AP Chemistry exam, and to qualify for admission as a STEM major to the University of California (UC) or the California State University (CSU) systems. AP Chemistry is a rigorous, lab-based STEM course for serious students.

In class, Nikhil is an active participant, and he works well with peers and adults. He functions well on a team, and he enjoys group activities. Outside of class, I note that Nikhil is, among his other accomplishments, an Eagle Scout. His resume seems centered on service activities as well as academic competitions and athletics. .

Please contact me at if I can answer any further questions about Nikhil’s qualifications.
www.dublinusd.org/dhs
1222

Application Submittal
Your completed application must be submitted via this online form. Application submittals must include the following items:

Questions
Please direct questions to Liz Eilliott, Recreation Supervisor, at 925-833-6645 or email First Name*
Ishita
Last Name*
Prasad
Street Address*
Print
Youth Advisory Committee Application 2023-2024 term - Submission #5719 Date Submitted: 3/21/2023
1223
City*
Dublin
State*
California
Zip*
94568
Email Address*
Phone Number*
What school will you attend in the 2023-2024 school year?* Dublin High School
What grade will you be in during the 2023-2024 school year?* 9 1. Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* I have been a Dublin Youth Advisory Committee member for the year 2022-2023. Being a part of the YAC has given me insights on how the YAC is trying to help not only the youth of Dublin but also volunteering in activities for seniors, job fairs for people, etc. Participating in the YAC meetings and volunteering in the YAC activities have given me a sense of purpose for helping the people in my community. Some of reasons I want to become a member of the YAC are: a. I like helping and volunteering for different activities for the City of Dublin as part of the YAC b. I am good at organizing events and would like to continue doing it for the year 2023-2024 too. Some of events I liked were the seniorsâ€™ event, the job fair and the ad hoc Hackathon committee. c. I have experiences of starting and running a business like the one I did for baking with my friends during the pandemic or more recently a lip gloss and lip balm business. This allows me to be involved in participating in planning activities like planning for ingredients, surveying and defining prices, making brochures and business cards, marketing and selling the products. This has let me learn how to organize and execute the programs which has been helpful and will continue to be helpful in my role as a member of the YAC. d. I am creative and good at arts and crafts that can be helpful to the YAC and its activities. e. I also want to be in the YAC because I want to spread positivity, take on leadership roles as well as I want to help my community. Adding on, the YAC is a great opportunity to learn about my city Dublin, and it can help me do well in high school. f. Finally, it will allow me to understand the Dublin City activities better and I will be able to get more friends and classmates involved in the advancement of the City of Dublin. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

2. What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* I am very interested in joining the Youth Advisory Committee again and I really enjoyed the last term for the Youth Advisory. a.

Some skills I possess that will be important are problem solving, communication, Creativity, and leadership. I am very organized ad always try my best. I have done a lot of volunteering which involved these skills. b. Something I have done in the past was volunteering at a preschool over the summer for around 7 weeks. At the preschool, I worked with younger kids and other volunteers and had to communicate and be able to teach them. c. Another example of when I had to use these skills was a few years ago when a few of my friends and I created a baking business. One of the biggest challenges was that I lived far from them, and it was during covid, but I still collaborated and communicated with them so we could make our business successful. Even though it was in the middle of Covid, we were still all able to deliver all the baked goods. d. Recently, I started a lip balm and lip gloss business with 2 of my friends. We had to plan right from the ingredients, flavors, packaging , printing and selling the products, which used planning and organizing activities. e. I have volunteers for the seniors event, job fair, the St. Patrickâ€™s Day Celebration, working in the ad hoc committee for the hackathon. I like volunteering and helping others.

This is one key skill required for YAC, as most of the stuff we do at YAC is volunteering. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)
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3. What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC could address these issues?*
The issues teens face and deal with have got compounded by the Pandemic and lock downs. a. One of the key issues that picked up prominence during the pandemic and afterwards is mental health issues. Lack of social connects lead to cases of increase in anxiety and depression. These could be social issues where teens find it difficult to socialize and make more friends. b. Secondly, the amount of homework in certain subjects and not being able to get enough time for playing and leisure activities are another set of challenges some teens face. c. Bullying continues to be one of the main issues teens face, especially cyberbullying and bullying over text messages. d. In these days almost every teen has a phone or an electronic devices like a laptop or iPad. More and more kids are getting addicted to sites like Instagram, Pinterest, shorts, reels, TikTok etc. Kids are spending more time on these and thus ending up having more screen times, leaving less time for physical activities and sports. e. Health issues are increasing as teems are spending more time online than carrying out physical activities and sports. f. Another issue that has become more common is online games/video games. Lots of teens and younger people have become addicted to games spending more than 2-3 hours of their time every day playing games. This can affect the teens' other day-to-day activities, as well as teens, will have less and less time for social interactions and outdoor games.

YAC can use its activities to increase awareness amongst teens about these issues and methods to cope with them, in ways that teens will be able to relate to.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

4. What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2023-2024 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities?* I am involved in the following activities this year. a. I participate in weekly taek won do classes as well as coding classes. b. I am part of the school band. c. Youth Advisory Committee â€“ I am a current member of YAC and have able to actively participate in most meetings and activities of YAC. In the current year, I have been able to actively manage my time as well as participate in YAC meetings and activities and I believe I will be able to participate in meetings and activities during the 2023- 2024 school year too.
(This boxcan be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

5. How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* a. Teens are interested in creative activities and events, and these could be an useful way to get the teens involved in the community. I have informed my friends and other school mates about the activities being planned by YAC and some of them have participated in the YAC organized activities. b. Awareness activities: Many teens in middle school were not aware of the different activities that are being organized by the City of Dublin. One of the ways to spread the message would be to post flyers etc. in school boards along with getting the school district and school principal include the events information in the emailers they send to students and parents. c. Planning fun and exciting events are a useful way to get teens involved in the community. d. Events like environmental cleanup are activities that can get teens, and other people of all ages involved.

Environmental clean-ups can teach teens about keeping our world clean, how trash lying around can harm our environment, and how to preserve nature. e. Charity drives can help teens understand about helping people in need, and how to donate. It could teach them to not be greedy and to be happy with what they have, because many people in the world have less than them. f.

Fun Clubs like art clubs, chess clubs, video game clubs, and sports clubs are some things that will both be exciting and will interest teens. They can get involved in the community while having fun and learning new things. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

6. Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting? If yes, what was the meeting date and what was the outcome of the item(s) you were interested in?* Yes, I have attended YAC meetings, since I am currently in the YAC for the 2022-23 year. I have attended most of the meetings and I am on the ad hoc committee for the Hackathon. The most recent meeting of the ad hoc committee was on March 2nd.

We planned the hackathon. This was my first year on the Youth Advisory and I am looking forward to being part of the YAC next year.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

8. A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place. 1225
Upload Letter of Recommendation (required).*
Reference letter from Lee (PoonguzhaliRajaraman) -
signed.pdf
Upload 2nd Letter of Recommendation (optional)
Reference Letter - Namratta Berry.pdf
Application materials must be submitted via this online application form. The application deadline is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 24, 2023. Applications or letters of recommendation will not be accepted after the deadline. 1226
To whom so ever it may concern
My name is Namrata Berry. I live in in Dublin. Ishita Prasad is daughter of our family friend Nandini and Prashant Prasad. We have known them since last eight years. Ishita is a good kid who loves to bake and play with her friends. She is a happy girl who always greets us with respect. She has good leadership qualities and I believe if she gets selected in Youth Advisory Committee, she will be a valued member. If you have any questions, I can be reached at or email at
Thank you.

Regards,
Namrata Berry
Dated: 3/20/2022
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Application Submittal
Your completed application must be submitted via this online form. Application submittals must include the following items:

Questions
Please direct questions to Liz Eilliott, Recreation Supervisor, at 925-833-6645 or email First Name*
Tharun
Last Name*
Prem Anandh
Street Address*
Print
Youth Advisory Committee Application 2023-2024 term - Submission #5826 Date Submitted: 3/24/2023
1229
City*
Dublin
State*
CA
Zip*
94568
Email Address*
Phone Number*
What school will you attend in the 2023-2024 school year?* Dublin High School
What grade will you be in during the 2023-2024 school year?* 10th Grade

1. Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* I want to become a member of the city of Dublin YAC because I believe that it is a remarkable platform to voice my opinions and ideas in matters related to the betterment of Dublin Youth. It would be a great opportunity for me to get involved in shaping the policies and programs that makes a positive impact on Dublin youth. Moreover, being a member of the YAC would be an excellent prospect for my personal growth and development. I will get to meet many, which could lead to great partnerships and future opportunities. Working with other young people to achieve a common goal can help build leadership and teamwork skills.

It will also deliver a sense of satisfaction that I had worked to accomplish something good in my community. Overall, becoming a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Council would make me thrilled in helping to contribute to Dublin Cityâ€™s YAC initiatives.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

2. What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* I have excellent social and communication skills which I think are key to expressing ideas, collaborating with others, and making proposals. I am a good listener and able to think out-of-the-box. I am a good team player, who can adapt to varying situations. I aspire to develop excellent leadership skills in the process of representing young people. Above all, I am passionate and dedicated to the idea of becoming the prospective voice of Dublin youth in community issues. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

3. What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC could address these issues?*
Nowadays, teens face stress which can affect their mental health. Stress could be related to family issues, school/grades, social media or body judgment which can ultimately lead to anxiety or depression. YAC could address this by promoting more mental health support in schools in the form of events and workshops focusing on self-care. Another issue that had caught my attention these past days is physical violence in school. YAC could address this situation by implementing anti-bullying programs and strategies on how to resolve conflicts. YAC could provide school staff additional training and resources to handle such situations.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)
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4. What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2023-2024 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities?* In the 2022-23 school year at Dublin High school, I am part of 2 clubs - chess club which meets every Wednesday at lunch and the badminton club which meets every Friday at lunch. I plan to continue to be part of these clubs during 2023-24 school year.

So, I will definitely be able to devote time toward the YACâ€™s meetings and activities. (This boxcan be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

5. How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* I would focus on promoting such teen events and activities. YAC could use social media platforms, such as Instagram or Facebook, to promote upcoming events. YAC could also reach out to schools to spread the word about these events. Getting teens involved in the planning and execution of events might help too.. YAC could hold regular meetings or focus groups to get feedback and ideas from other teens on how make those events more appealing to the teen population. YAC could provide incentives like offering prizes, scholarships, or volunteer hours for those who attend these events. This can motivate young people to get involved and stay engaged in the community (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

6. Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting? If yes, what was the meeting date and what was the outcome of the item(s) you were interested in?* No, I did not attend any such meetings recently.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

8. A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Upload Letter of Recommendation (required).*
Tharun Prem Anandh-2023.pdf
Upload 2nd Letter of Recommendation (optional)
Choose File No file selected
Application materials must be submitted via this online application form. The application deadline is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 24, 2023. Applications or letters of recommendation will not be accepted after the deadline. 1231
www.dublinusd.org/dhs
March 19, 2023
Selection Committee
Youth Advisory Committee
Dear Selection Committee,
It is my pleasure and honor to recommend Tharun Prem Anandh for placement on the Youth Advisory Committee in Dublin, CA. It has been a pleasure watching him grow in my Advanced Algebra 2 class this year and to watch him develop into a contributing member of my class. After reading more about this opportunity, I believe Tharun will be a great asset to the program.

The members of this committee are students who are concerned with youth issues in the community and are able to have conversations with others in the community. Tharun has adapted very well to my unique group-based learning environment He does a very good job of both listening to classmates explain their solutions as well as voice his ideas.

I have no reservations recommending Tharun for this great program. I have no doubt he will represent the youth of the community extremely well. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions regarding his character, past academic work, or any other qualifications related to the school.

Sincerely,
Jaime Roberts
Mathematics Teacher
Dublin High School

DUBLIN HIGH SCHOOL
2017 GOLD RIBBON SCHOOL
8151 Village Parkway, Dublin, CA 94568 ● 925-833-3300 ● FAX 925-833-3322 1232

Application Submittal
Your completed application must be submitted via this online form. Application submittals must include the following items:

Questions
Please direct questions to Liz Eilliott, Recreation Supervisor, at 925-833-6645 or email First Name*
Shivani
Last Name*
Ramanathan
Street Address*
Print
Youth Advisory Committee Application 2023-2024 term - Submission #5860 Date Submitted: 3/24/2023
1233
City*
DUBLIN
State*
California
Zip*
94856
Email Address*
Phone Number*
What school will you attend in the 2023-2024 school year?* Dublin High School
What grade will you be in during the 2023-2024 school year?* 9th Grade

1. Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* The youth advisory board is the responsibility of leading and always making sure to spread positivity and inclusivity. The youth advisory board is a program of altruism. Giving back to the community and bringing the aroma of positivity all throughout the school. In this program, I see myself striving to make a difference in our community. Striving each day for the betterment of OUR school and community. Whether it be poster making, planning out rallies or just leading by example - I will always make sure to find my path to the youth advisory board. To be more specific. In the youth advisory board I see myself showing the principle of positivity and inclusivity each day of leadership. The Dublin youth advisory board is a life lesson which I am eager to continue again. I see myself contributing by servicing people to my best power. I see myself bringing in the principle of positivity, change and inclusivity to the Dublin Youth advisory board. Inclusivity has a variety of definitions, from meaning the importance of voice, gender, opinion, race or social class - everyone matters. The youth advisory board should contribute to this cause and, I would like to help these principles and enact them into our community. Inclusivity, Hard work, Commitment and Positive attitude is what I am. I hope to express these qualities to my fullest potential and I see myself doing exactly that currently in leadership - I would just like to improve more. My contributions to this program would be making the youth advisory board inclusive of all voices and spreading positivity. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

2. What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* I can possess communication skills, as a member of a youth advisory board, I am able to communicate effectively with my peers, as well as with adults and other stakeholders. This includes being able to listen actively, express my ideas clearly and concisely, and work collaboratively with others. Leadership skills also play a role in my strengths, I have the ability to take initiative and lead by example. Being able to motivate others and inspire them to take action is my habit. Problem-solving skills are important qualities of being a member, and I believe I have that. Youth advisory board members are often tasked with finding solutions to complex problems facing young people in their community. I have strong problem-solving skills and am able to think critically and creatively to come up with innovative solutions. Diversity and Inclusion are skills I also possess, I am responsible to represent the diversity within the community it serves. Having a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion, and being able to work effectively with people from different backgrounds, is a quality I have. Overall, I can possess strong communication skills, leadership skills, problem-solving skills, empathy and understanding, and a commitment to diversity and inclusion are all important qualities that can make me a strong candidate for a youth advisory board (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)
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3. What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC could address these issues?*
The primary issue of teens today is dealing with depression and stress. Which then takes them to a state of addiction to drugs, smoking, and tobacco. Eventually it affects mental health in the future. High School, and middle school are prime times that set you up for success or failure, however teenâ€™s are confused. Which makes them make poor decisions in life. Noticing this problem, I joined TUPE for the last two years, a program which prevents and explains the negative sides of tobacco. TUPE is an Alameda county organization, and my passion for helping teens at my age, younger or older has never grown larger. Teen depression is a serious mental health condition that can have a profound impact on a young person's life. It is estimated that approximately 1 in 5 teenagers experience some form of depression at some point during their teenage years. Depression leads people into making bad choices so as a member of the youth advisory board, I would ensure we help our people as much as I can. I believe it is significantly important to create a supportive and caring environment for teenagers who are struggling with depression. Encouraging them to talk about their feelings and providing emotional support can help them feel less alone and more supported during a difficult time. I would try my best to help them recover and lead a fulfilling life. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

4. What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2023-2024 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities?* I am completely open to new activities regarding the Dublin Youth Advisory Board. I am an 8th grader, except from my school work I am currently involved in the CCS Yearbook Team as the chief editor, Girls4sports - DHS club, TUPE, and the swim team.

You can absolutely trust me in devoting time for the Youth advisory board. I would be a strong asset to the Dublin Youth Advisory committee as I am a hard-worker.
(This boxcan be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

5. How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* Getting other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities can be a rewarding experience, both for the teens involved and for the community as a whole. One of the keys to getting other teens involved is to understand their interests and hobbies. This can help us tailor events and activities that are more likely to appeal to them. Social media platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook are great tools for promoting events and activities. Creating a social media page or group for the community and posting regularly about upcoming events and activities. Partnering with local organizations can help me reach a wider audience and provide access to resources and funding. Reach out to community centers, schools, and youth organizations to collaborate on events and activities. Spread the word about events and activities by creating flyers, posters, and other promotional materials. Distribute these materials at schools, community centers, and other places where teens gather. Teens are more likely to participate in events and activities that are fun and engaging. Consider incorporating games, music, and other elements that will appeal to teens. And I would make sure that your events and activities are inclusive and welcoming to all teens, regardless of their background or interests. This will help ensure that everyone feels welcome and included. Overall, I would get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities requiring a combination of creativity, outreach, and collaboration. By working together with other community members and using social media and other tools to promote events and activities, I can create a fun and engaging environment that will help teens feel more connected to their community.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

6. Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting? If yes, what was the meeting date and what was the outcome of the item(s) you were interested in?* No, I wasn't informed there was a meeting but in the future I will definitely plan to join any meetings available. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

8. A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Upload Letter of Recommendation (required).*
Screenshot 2023-03-24 165303.png
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Upload 2nd Letter of Recommendation (optional)
Choose File No file selected
Application materials must be submitted via this online application form. The application deadline is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 24, 2023. Applications or letters of recommendation will not be accepted after the deadline. 1236
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Application Submittal
Your completed application must be submitted via this online form. Application submittals must include the following items:

Questions
Please direct questions to Liz Eilliott, Recreation Supervisor, at 925-833-6645 or email First Name*
Shreya
Last Name*
Ramesh
Street Address*
Print
Youth Advisory Committee Application 2023-2024 term - Submission #5788 Date Submitted: 3/24/2023
1238
City*
Dublin
State*
California
Zip*
94568
Email Address*
Phone Number*
What school will you attend in the 2023-2024 school year?* Emerald High School
What grade will you be in during the 2023-2024 school year?* 9th Grade

1. Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* I want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee because joining it would give me access to a lot of new pathways that I otherwise wouldn't have access to. I also believe that it would help me be more aware of issues surrounding my peers, and help me address them.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

2. What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* The skills that I possess that would make me a strong candidate for the YAC include having a good amount of confidence and a diplomatic personality. I also think I can easily find ways to ease tension, which I believe make me an overall likeable person. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

3. What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC could address these issues?*
From what I have seen at my school, I know that students are struggling with pressure from both peers and parents. Some students are also struggling with trying new things, such as making new friends, as they are so used to sticking with their original choices. I think offering volunteer-led activities in Dublin, while also making sure people are aware that they are occurring, would be a great way to encourage kids to step out of their comfort zones and try new things. I would like to emphasize the "making people aware" statement, as I know that many people either don't receive any kind of knowledge that these kinds of activities are happening, or don't care enough to show up. Letting the kids know that activities are occurring might encourage them to go ask their parents to participate in them. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

4. What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2023-2024 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities?* I am currently involved in extracurriculars such as music and math classes. I am planning on continuing these activities and I am planning on starting sports in the upcoming school year. However, I am confident I will be able to spend enough time for YAC meetings and activities.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)
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5. How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* I can get other teens to be involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored events by offering these activities at a younger age. I think that kids coming into middle school for the first time will have a stronger enthusiasm to try new things than older kids, as their enthusiasm slowly starts to die out as they begin to focus on schoolwork. Offering these at a younger age will allow kids to explore how they would like to help out as they grow older, and this will fuel a passion for that activity. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

6. Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting? If yes, what was the meeting date and what was the outcome of the item(s) you were interested in?* I have not recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

8. A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Upload Letter of Recommendation (required).*
Letter of Recommendation- Melissa Stanke.pdf
Upload 2nd Letter of Recommendation (optional)
Letter of Recommendation- Michelle Elissiry.pdf
Application materials must be submitted via this online application form. The application deadline is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 24, 2023. Applications or letters of recommendation will not be accepted after the deadline. 1240
Michelle Elissiry
Dublin, CA 94568
22nd March 2023
To Whom it May Concern,
I am writing this letter in support of Shreya Ramesh for the Youth Advisory Committee. Shreya has been my student at Fallon Middle School for the past year. I have known her to be a reliable, diligent, and responsible student with maturity beyond her years. Shreya has demonstrated the ability to lead other students on large projects, and continually keep those projects organized and on time. Her work ethic has always met or exceeded expectations.

Outside of the classroom, Shreya has proven herself to be just as dependable.

Whether leading a group of students on un~upervised activities or following through with commitments, Shreya can be counted on to follow through and sort out tasks presented to her and the challenges she runs into along the way.

Sincerely,
Michelle Elissiry
Teacher - Fallon Middle School
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),
' II.

Letter of Recommerldatib n ~- ;.,
For Shreya Ramesh } .... • .~
l· ;~ ,; 'f
,.
3/21/23
To Whom It May Concern: ; l ;
It is my pleasure to recommend Shreya Ramesh for t~e youth Advisory Committee. I have known Shreya for the past 8 months as her 8th Grcide Science teacher at Fallon Middle School. After reading over the goals of the Yo~th{Advisory Committee, I feel that ' .. ,, she would be a valuable member for the committee.; \; f ,: ), t I~ { {'
Shreya is very invested in her academics and alwayf puts forth her best effort in her work. She turns in all of her work on time and is not;afraid to ask questions when she needs clarification about an assignment or a topic. Shreya has excellent verbal and I 1• J, written communication skills. She is able to profession.ally and clearly articulate her ideas to others. She is respectful, responsible and a positive role model for all students on campus. I believe that these skills will allow her fo.: b~i,an asset to the Youth Advisory ,,f Committee. I ~-·.• .; : ,. ,,
•' ,, ' { _.. : ·.11
Shreya is also interested in helping the community o~:b ublin and in supporting her peers. Shreya participates in multiple extracurricular ~ctivities at Fallon. She is an active member of the World Affairs Club where studeMts ~iscuss the government and world issues. She is always kind and welcoming to alLst4dents at Fallon, and consistently asks me if there is anything she can do _to·h~lp me during class. ;~· : -~.~~. t ;, i ~- ii,
I have no reservations about recommending Shreya., f<?f ~fle Youth Advisory Committee.

Please feel free to reach out to me with any questions',O[ additional information. :$' . !·; . ti I ' I
Sincerely, ~· :.,, l
Melissa Stanke
Middle School Science Teacher
Fallon Middle School
Dublin Unified School District
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Application Submittal
Your completed application must be submitted via this online form. Application submittals must include the following items:

Questions
Please direct questions to Liz Eilliott, Recreation Supervisor, at 925-833-6645 or email First Name*
Diva
Last Name*
Rawal
Street Address*
Print
Youth Advisory Committee Application 2023-2024 term - Submission #5743 Date Submitted: 3/22/2023
1243
City*
Dublin
State*
California
Zip*
94568
Email Address*
Phone Number*
What school will you attend in the 2023-2024 school year?* Dublin Highschool
What grade will you be in during the 2023-2024 school year?* 9th grade

1. Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* Everyone has a set of qualities that shape their lives and help define who they are. For me, these qualities include leadership and a deep desire to help others. I have found that these values have been instrumental in shaping who I am today and have guided me in making important decisions throughout my life. Ever since I was young, I have been drawn to leadership roles and to helping others. These qualities have influenced the way I interact with the world around me and have helped me become the person I am today. I have always believed in leading by example, and in being someone that others can look up to and depend on. I have also been fortunate to have had positive role models in my life who have instilled in me the importance of helping others and making a positive impact in the world. As I have grown older, these values have only become more important to me.

I have come to realize that they are at the core of who I am as a person and that they guide everything I do, from small interactions with people to major decisions about my future. And now, as I look towards the future, I am excited to take the next step in fulfilling this theme in my life by becoming a member of the Youth Advisory Committee in the city of Dublin. I believe that this committee is the perfect fit for me and aligns with my values in many ways. The goals and direction of the committee resonate with me, and I believe that I can contribute a lot to it. I see myself as a positive role model for others, and I believe that my thoughts and ideas can have a positive influence on this committee, and vice versa- being a part of this can be positively influential on my character as I venture into some of the years that will be most formative to me. Being part of the group that makes decisions that impact the people in our community, especially teens, is an exciting idea for me. I also love being involved in the events and activities that shape our city. Participating in the committee will allow me to be "behind-thescenes" of these events and will give me the opportunity to contribute my ideas and insights to help make them even better. I believe that this experience will help me learn more about myself, as well as about the people in Dublin, and will be a formative experience for me. Dublin has never failed to surprise me with its sense of community and spirit ,and I am excited to be a part of it in a more meaningful way. Joining the Youth Advisory Committee will allow me to be at the heart of the city and to play a more active role in shaping its future. I believe that this experience will help me grow as a person and will be an important part of my life for years to come, and that is why I would love to be a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)
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2. What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* I am confident that my skills and experiences make me a valuable candidate for YAC. Throughout my life, I have developed several qualities that have helped me excel in various areas, including creativity, comfort with technology, and a natural leadership style, which all, I believe, will make me a great addition to the Youth Advisory Committee. One of the qualities that I believe sets me apart from others is my creativity. I have always been a creative person and have used this quality to drive my success in different projects. I enjoy looking at problems or ideas from unique angles, which helps me bring a fresh perspective to the table when working with a group of people. My creativity has allowed me to think outside the box and come up with innovative solutions that benefit the community. I believe this skill will be useful in contributing to the Youth Advisory Committee's initiatives and creating impactful programs and events. Another quality that makes me a strong candidate for YAC is my comfort with technology. Growing up in a tech-savvy family and being a part of a generation that is reliant on technology, I have developed a familiarity with technology that makes it easier for me to integrate it into various aspects of my life. Recently, I designed a system using Google Forms and Google Sheets that streamlined the process of calculating money for a service drive as part of the leadership program at Wells Middle School. It is these kinds of ideas that I think I can bring to the YAC and help implement projects that involve the use of technology. I am also excited to learn more about technology and its potential uses in community programs. Lastly, I have a natural leadership style that I have honed throughout my life. I have always found myself taking charge in group projects and activities, even from a young age. Although it can be challenging to lead a group, I find that I thrive in these situations. I am comfortable with taking on a leadership role, and I believe that my leadership style is collaborative. I enjoy working with others and believe that the best ideas come from group collaboration. I am confident that my leadership style could be an asset to the committee, as I would be able to facilitate collaboration and help us to work efficiently towards our goals. Besides these three skills, I have been part of the leadership program at my elementary and middle school, am currently ASB President at Wells Middle School, and am always one of the first people to step up and get involved in the community, which makes me very excited about the opportunity to help make a difference in the community and contribute to meaningful initiatives as a part of YAC.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

3. What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC could address these issues?*
A healthy lifestyle is essential for people of all ages, but it is particularly critical for teenagers. However, in today's society, it seems that many teens struggle with maintaining a healthy lifestyle. This problem is not unique to Dublin, but rather a nationwide issue. With the prevalence of social media, academic pressures, and the influence of peers, many teens are finding it challenging to take care of themselves. It is concerning that the lack of a healthy lifestyle has become normalized among teenagers, and this has serious consequences. Many teens are not getting enough sleep, which can have adverse effects on their mental and physical health. Additionally, overstimulation from social media and other forms of technology can lead to increased anxiety and a decrease in focus. Itâ€™s no wonder that many teens find it hard to focus on the things that are important to them. Another significant issue is the prevalence of peer pressure, which can lead to teens making unhealthy decisions. This is a challenging problem to address since it is often challenging for teens to resist the influence of their peers.

Therefore, it is crucial to provide guidance and support to teenagers to help them make healthy choices. The Youth Advisory Committee can play a vital role in addressing these issues. By spreading awareness and involving teens in finding solutions that work for them, YAC can help support teenagers in Dublin. It is essential to recognize that there is no one solution that will work for everyone, and so it is necessary to provide various forms of guidance and support to accommodate different individuals' needs. I think the best way to do this is to provide guidance to teens, and make it so that they find the solutions themselves.

One effective approach is to create online forums where teens can openly or anonymously discuss their struggles and receive support and advice from others. Additionally, support groups where teens can come together to talk about the challenges they are facing can be incredibly beneficial. These types of programs provide guidance to teens while also helping them to connect with others who are going through similar experiences. In conclusion, the lack of a healthy lifestyle among teenagers is a serious issue that requires attention. It is crucial to raise awareness of the issue and provide support and guidance to teens to help them make healthy choices. The Youth Advisory Committee has a critical role to play in addressing this problem and can make a significant impact on the lives of teens in Dublin. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)
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4. What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2023-2024 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities?* Although I have several interests outside of school, there are two particular "extracurriculars" that have been an integral part of my life for as long as I can remember. The first one is music. Ever since I was six years old, I have been singing Indian classical music, and for two years, I also played clarinet. In the past four years, I have added piano to my musical journey. I have had the opportunity to perform in front of diverse audiences for various events and causes. When choosing pieces of music to perform, I often pick ones that align with my values and beliefs. Recently, I played the song "Bella Ciao," a song of freedom, at the Dougherty Valley Performance Art Center with my family, to raise awareness about women in Iran. I have also performed at cultural events and talent shows, and I play music at home with my family in my free time as well. The second "extracurricular" that I am passionate about is my Youtube channel. I created the channel at the age of seven with my dad, who has been a constant source of support and encouragement. I have a profound interest in creating videos of myself and others, and my channel is devoted to teaching and inspiring others like me. With almost 7,000 subscribers and nearly over a million channel views, my channel has been a meaningful platform for me to share my passions and skills with the world. Although these two activities require a significant amount of my time and dedication, I am excited and willing to devote as much effort and time needed towards YAC, because helping the community is a cause that deeply resonates with meFor me, being part of YAC is a unique opportunity to be involved in creating change on a larger scale. I believe that working with other motivated and passionate individuals towards a common goal can create a powerful force for good. Through YAC, I hope to inspire and encourage other young people to get involved in their communities and to make a positive impact in whatever way they can. I am ready to bring my creativity, leadership, and dedication to YAC and to work alongside my fellow members to make a difference in our community.
(This boxcan be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

5. How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* If I become a member of the YAC, I am excited about the opportunity to engage other teenagers in the community and Citysponsored events. In my opinion, teenagers are the driving force behind community events, and I believe that they have the potential to make a significant difference in the community if they are motivated and given the right tools to do so. To make this happen, I would use various methods to spread the word about community events and make them more appealing to young people. Firstly, I would leverage social media platforms such as Instagram, Snapchat, and TikTok to reach out to my peers and promote upcoming events. I believe that social media is a powerful tool that can be used to communicate with large groups of people quickly and effectively. I would also spread the word around school and in my community. Secondly, I would work with my fellow YAC members to organize teen events that cater to the interests of young people. We could brainstorm ideas for events and activities that would appeal to teenagers. These events could be held in various locations around the city to make them more accessible to young people. Overall, my goal as a YAC member would be to get other teens involved in the community and City-sponsored events by using creative and innovative approaches. By working together with my fellow YAC members and utilizing social media and local resources, I believe that we can make a significant impact on the youth community in our city.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

6. Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting? If yes, what was the meeting date and what was the outcome of the item(s) you were interested in?* No, I haven't recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

8. A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Upload Letter of Recommendation (required).*
Diva LOR.pdf
1246
Upload 2nd Letter of Recommendation (optional)
Choose File No file selected
Application materials must be submitted via this online application form. The application deadline is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 24, 2023. Applications or letters of recommendation will not be accepted after the deadline. 1247
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Application Submittal
Your completed application must be submitted via this online form. Application submittals must include the following items:

Questions
Please direct questions to Liz Eilliott, Recreation Supervisor, at 925-833-6645 or email First Name*
Taneshka Reddy
Last Name*
Morram Reddygari
Street Address*
Print
Youth Advisory Committee Application 2023-2024 term - Submission #5838 Date Submitted: 3/24/2023
1249
City*
Dublin
State*
California
Zip*
94568
Email Address*
Phone Number*
What school will you attend in the 2023-2024 school year?* Emerald High School
What grade will you be in during the 2023-2024 school year?* 9 1. Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* I want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee so I can make a change to the community of the teens. The age of a teenager is very important as this is the foundation to determine their character and choose a life pathway (in perspective of personality), and as a teenager I wish to help make this environment better for them. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

2. What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* I am confident and not afraid to share my ideas and I believe that it is important that when we start something we should complete it and exceed all expectations. I am determined as well as devoted to activities which I take part in. I devote my time and I am enthusiastic when it comes to activities such as this. I am really inspired by different programs and what they do to the community such as Girl4Sports and wish to be part of an organization which can make an impact in our lives as well. I can assure you that I will make space for this and do my very best to make an impact. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

3. What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC could address these issues?*
Some issues I believe teens in Dublin are dealing with right now are self confidence. Personally, I feel that there are teens that are afraid to do activities that they wish to do and that they step back down if one thing goes wrong. We could address these issues with TED Talks as they are very inspirational. We can make a bigger difference if we could ask other teens what they are facing as everyone has their own issues and I believe it's important to take everyoneâ€™s opinions into consideration. Not only TED Talks but we can run fun activities which can boost someone's confidence like games or teens interaction days where everyone in the community shows up.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

4. What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2023-2024 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities?* Some activities which I am currently involved in right now are Leadership which sometimes requires after school time as well as a program called WEB and this is a program for the incoming 6th graders to help them around. In the year of 2023-2024 I again have signed up for WEB and plan to start a club (DECA), if not start a club, join clubs at least. I also hope to be part of the Youth Advisory board and I will devote time each month and whenever it is required to show up for meetings and activities. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)
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5. How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* It would be fun to do events based on helping the community, in various ways. We can have booths set up and have fun events which can set them up for success in the future (like highschool does). We can have events that make them fundraisers for certain things (ex: schools, programs, events, etc.).
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

6. Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting? If yes, what was the meeting date and what was the outcome of the item(s) you were interested in?* Yes I am planning to attend the Board Meeting for Dublin on the 28th of March 2023 to talk about the Emerald High Mascot during public comment. The result is not yet known, and if I do not attend this meeting I will email letting you know. As far as right now i do plan on attending the meeting.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

8. A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Upload Letter of Recommendation (required).*
Taneshka Letter of Rec.pdf
Upload 2nd Letter of Recommendation (optional)
letter of rec .png
Application materials must be submitted via this online application form. The application deadline is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 24, 2023. Applications or letters of recommendation will not be accepted after the deadline. 1251
1252

COTTONWOOD CREEK SCHOOL
DUBLIN UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT Lorianne R. Ventura, Ed.D.

Principal
March, 18 2023
Dear Dublin Youth Advisory Committee,
I am writing this letter of recommendation for Taneshka Reddy Morram Reddy. Without reservation, I highly recommend Taneshka to be a part of the Dublin Youth Advisory Committee. I have been a middle school leadership teacher for seventeen years. I have been a member of CADA (California Association of Activities Directors) for over ten years. I have participated in numerous CADA state conventions, summer leadership camps and student conference days.

Taneshka exemplifies all of the Dublin Integrity in Action Character Traits. Taneshka is responsible, respectful, giving, caring, cooperative, honest, does her best, is trustworthy, and has a positive attitude and self discipline. I would say that Taneshka strengths are in her organizational skills,positive attitude and initiative .

I have known Brenda for two years as a student, a leader in my classroom, as a school wide student leader and a physical education student. I would describe Taneshka as bright, positive in nature, one who takes initiative, honest and hardworking. She consistently pursued to achieve high marks, produced work of the highest quality, was a dependable team player, and set an example for achievement and service during her tenure at Cottonwood Creek K-8.

Taneshka is the kind of person that is not afraid to ask questions and will work hard to achieve high results. During the years of knowing her , I became very aware of her ability to seek out challenges, her determination to conquer those challenges all while having an amazingly positive attitude.

In my professional opinion, Taneshka will be both an excellent addition and an asset to any organization that chooses to accept her.

Sincerely,
Natalie Young
Instructor of Student Leadership Elective and Physical Education 2400 Central Parkway • Dublin • California 94568 • (925) 833-3333 • Fax (925) 833-3711 1 1253

Application Submittal
Your completed application must be submitted via this online form. Application submittals must include the following items:

Questions
Please direct questions to Liz Eilliott, Recreation Supervisor, at 925-833-6645 or email First Name*
Harveer
Last Name*
Saini
Street Address*
Print
Youth Advisory Committee Application 2023-2024 term - Submission #5831 Date Submitted: 3/24/2023
1254
City*
Dublin
State*
California
Zip*
94568
Email Address*
Phone Number*
What school will you attend in the 2023-2024 school year?* Dublin High School
What grade will you be in during the 2023-2024 school year?* 10th Grade

1. Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* My main motivation for joining the Dublin Youth Advisory Committee is my passion for contributing and giving back to my community. Through the Youth Advisory Committee, I hope to have a voice on issues that impact the youth and be able to bring positive change for students across the district through my own personal experiences. At the same time, I hope to improve my communication abilities by working alongside a diverse team and gaining a plethora of experiences as I meet new people. As a committee member, I not only want to help the community, but also grow as a person, by learning civic responsibility, and gaining more self-confidence. I will have opportunities to strengthen my ties to the community, broaden my support network, and be exposed to people with common interests. Being an active leader gives me a sense of pride and identity, and I really hope to use my own experiences to benefit others.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

2. What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* My past experience with contributing to the Dublin community through volunteering, as well as my leadership skills and passion for positively impacting the lives of young children, are the key strengths that I believe would make me a strong candidate for the Youth Advisory Committee. I am extremely dedicated and motivated towards making a difference in my community, especially by empowering the youth, and this translates through my extensive volunteering experience. Below are some of my volunteer activities involving the Youth in the recent past. 1. Presidentâ€™s Volunteer Service Award: As a volunteer at a Certified Taekwondo Academy, I helped students build self-defense skills, improve discipline, and develop qualities of persistence, perseverance, and determination. I was honored to receive a certificate signed by the President of the United States, awarding me the Presidentâ€™s Volunteer Service award for 70+ hours of Community Service, which recognizes and honors individuals whose service positively impacts communities and the youth across the nation. 2. For the past year, I have been dedicating 5 hours a week to teaching Math and English to young learners from 6-14 years old. I have helped them not only grow academically, but also improve their critical and creative thinking, time management, and problem solving skills. 3. I volunteer 3 hours every Sunday, at a local cultural center in Livermore, where I teach children of the ages 5-7, how to read, write, and speak the Punjabi language. As a person who is very passionate about music, I also teach classical music to students in elementary school. 4. As the Student Body President of my school in 5th grade, and as a member of the Districtâ€™s Student Board Advisory Council, I helped brainstorm and implement ideas to improve our schools. My passion for community service was recognized by the Dublin Unified School District when I was presented with the Integrity Award. 5. As part of the Dublin Mayorâ€™s Council Environmental Advocacy Group this year, I also worked on a variety of volunteering projects such as organizing and holding battery and recycling drives at our school. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)
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3. What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC could address these issues?*
The most important community issue that impacts students today is one of mental health. As many as one in six children between the ages of 6 and 17 has a treatable mental health disorder such as depression, anxiety, or attention deficit disorder (ADHD). These conditions have been exacerbated by stresses and changes brought on by the pandemic and even though the pandemic is almost over, these conditions have persisted for our students. Through the Youth Advisory Committee, I want to partner with our students, schools and teachers to find a safe, supportive and engaging way to enable students to cope with stress in a healthy way. As a student myself, I can relate to the every-day stresses and anxieties that many of the youth in Dublin face everyday, and help them first-hand. This issue is extremely important to me and as both a member of the Mayor's Council and Youth Advisory Committee, I believe working alongside the Mayor's council initiative "Elephant in the room" and "Neuro-diversity" which addresses mental health issues in the youth, would allow the committee to find creative ways to actively address this important issue.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

4. What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2023-2024 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities?* I am currently and will be involved in a variety of school clubs such as Speech and Debate, Model United Nations, Pre-Law Society, and California Scholarship Federation. Outside of school, some of the extracurricular activities I am involved in include playing the piano, playing badminton, and volunteering as you can see from previous responses. If accepted, I would definitely give the Youth Advisory Committee my full dedication and commitment every month, regardless of the other activities that I am involved in. I would make sure to be present at every single meeting, be an active committee member, and constantly participate in community service events whenever presented with the opportunity. As I mentioned earlier, not only am I extremely passionate about helping the community, but I really want to learn and gain skills such as civic responsibility by being on the committee. Overall, being an active member of the Youth Advisory Committee would be my top priority. (This boxcan be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

5. How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* One of the most efficient ways to increase teen involvement in community events and activities is through the use of social media. Almost every teen uses platforms such as Instagram and Tik-Tok, and by utilizing platforms such as these to advertise and promote events, a lot more teens would be interested in attending and becoming involved in community activities. Making these events more relatable and engaging for teens in general would also significantly boost their participation. Many teens are passionate about social justice issues and want to help the community and gain some volunteer hours, so gearing some of these community events to purposes of social justice and volunteering would also incentivize teens to join. In order to get other teens more involved in the community, it is also imperative to take their personal insight upon events that are happening. For example, allowing them to have some involvement in the planning process of events would make these activities a lot more engaging and more likely to attract their interest.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

6. Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting? If yes, what was the meeting date and what was the outcome of the item(s) you were interested in?* I recently attended the Dublin City Council Meeting that was held on January 10, 2023. I attended the meeting with my dad, to see in person who our selected City council members are, after the recent November election. It was a very empowering experience to see our council members discuss issues that impact our community and watch some of our citizens voice concerns during the public comment period. I thought this was a very effective medium to advocate for causes that citizens care about and to have their voice heard by decision-makers. Additionally, this meeting covered an important item for the approval of the Youth Advisory Committeeâ€™s Funding Proposal. Hearing about the Youth Advisory Committee at this council meeting was a major inspiration and motivation for me to apply and submit this application, as I hope to get more involved in such volunteering activities that empower the youth in our community. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

8. A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place. 1256
Upload Letter of Recommendation (required).*
Harveer Saini- Recommendation Letter 1.pdf
Upload 2nd Letter of Recommendation (optional)
Harveer Saini- Recommendation Letter 2.pdf
Application materials must be submitted via this online application form. The application deadline is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 24, 2023. Applications or letters of recommendation will not be accepted after the deadline. 1257
March 21, 2023
Dear Youth Advisory Selection Committee:

It is with great pleasure that I enthusiastically recommend Harveer Saini for the 2023-2024 term of the Youth Advisory Committee.

My name is Jasneet Kaur and I teach at Dublin High School. I had the pleasure of teaching Harveer this year in Computer Science Essentials course.

During our time together, I have consistently been impressed by Harveer’s intelligence, dedication, and passion. He possesses a unique combination of natural charisma, strong communication skills, and strategic thinking. He is well respected by his team members and peers for his natural ability to inspire and motivate those around him towards a common goal. His ability to problem-solve and effectively communicate his vision and goals makes me believe that he will be very successful on the Youth Advisory Committee.

Harveer’s passions extend well beyond the classroom as well. During just his freshman year, I have seen Harveer’s dedication and commitment to a variety of clubs and school activities such as Speech and Debate, Model United Nations, and Pre-Law Society. While in my class, he developed an app that empowers the youth and helps them build their public speaking and debate skills. Seeing him combine his enthusiasm for Speech and Debate with the knowledge and skills he has gained in my Computer Science class just furthers the level of creativity and intellectual curiosity that he brings to my class every single day.

It is for all of these reasons and more that I believe Harveer would be a wonderful addition to the Youth Advisory Committee. If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Sincerely,
Ms Jasneet Kaur Matta
Dublin High School
Engineering and Design Academy, Teacher
03/21/2023
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1259

Application Submittal
Your completed application must be submitted via this online form. Application submittals must include the following items:

Questions
Please direct questions to Liz Eilliott, Recreation Supervisor, at 925-833-6645 or email First Name*
Trisha
Last Name*
Sallakonda
Street Address*
Print
Youth Advisory Committee Application 2023-2024 term - Submission #5768 Date Submitted: 3/23/2023
1260
City*
Dublin
State*
CA
Zip*
94568
Email Address*
Phone Number*
What school will you attend in the 2023-2024 school year?* Fallon Middle School
What grade will you be in during the 2023-2024 school year?* 8th

1. Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* Being part of the Dublin Youth Advisory Committee gives me an opportunity to serve my community and build relationships with other people. I would love to organize events and activities that would be enjoyable for everyone. The future of this city belongs to the youth. I will make sure that everyoneâ€™s voices are heard. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

2. What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* I am creative, imaginative, and responsible. As part of a Destination Imagination project, my team and I fundraised for the Sonoma County Firefighters Organization, reaching out to our community to support those who were affected by the wildfires. I am someone who can get things done on time. I believe that I will be able to use these skills through YAC. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

3. What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC could address these issues?*
The one major issue that teens are dealing with is stress. Most teens feel overwhelmed from school, influencing their performance at school. I believe that through YAC, I will be able to organize stress free events for teens who are feeling anxious about anything such as school. YAC can help these teens who are feeling nervous and help them with their issues through various events such as interacting with other people who are also going through the same thing. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

4. What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2023-2024 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities?* I currently play the piano and I also enjoy dance. I will be able to devote time for YAC meetings and activities. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

5. How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* I would make sure that these events/activities are not only stress-free but also enjoyable for other students. I would encourage other teens to join the activities by convincing them about how it can help them with their stress and how they can help other people too.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.) 1261

6. Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting? If yes, what was the meeting date and what was the outcome of the item(s) you were interested in?* No
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

8. A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Upload Letter of Recommendation (required).*
Letter of Recommendation Trisha Sallakonda.pdf
Upload 2nd Letter of Recommendation (optional)
Choose File No file selected
Application materials must be submitted via this online application form. The application deadline is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 24, 2023. Applications or letters of recommendation will not be accepted after the deadline. 1262
Dear Admissions Committee,
I am writing to highly recommend Trisha Sallakonda for The Dublin Youth Advisory Committee. As Trisha’s English teacher for the current school year, I have had the privilege of watching Trisha grow into an exceptional learner and collaborator.

Trisha consistently demonstrates a deep understanding of literary concepts, and has an exceptional ability to think critically and analyze texts. Her writing skills are equally impressive, often displaying a creative flair and exceptional attention to detail.

What truly sets Trisha apart is her collaborative and creative approach to learning. They have a natural ability to work well with others and are always eager to share their ideas and learn from their peers. Trisha frequently volunteers to lead group projects, where she helps her classmates develop their ideas and bring them to life.

I believe that Trisha's collaborative and creative approach to learning would be an asset to your Committee. She possesses excellent interpersonal skills, creativity, and the ability to work with others to achieve common goals..

Please do not hesitate to contact me if you require any further information.

Sincerely,
Kyle Voeller
Fallon Middle School
1263

Application Submittal
Your completed application must be submitted via this online form. Application submittals must include the following items:

Questions
Please direct questions to Liz Eilliott, Recreation Supervisor, at 925-833-6645 or email First Name*
Riddhish
Last Name*
Saravanan
Street Address*
Print
Youth Advisory Committee Application 2023-2024 term - Submission #5764 Date Submitted: 3/23/2023
1264
City*
Dublin
State*
California
Zip*
94568
Email Address*
Phone Number*
What school will you attend in the 2023-2024 school year?* Emerald High School
What grade will you be in during the 2023-2024 school year?* 9th Grade

1. Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* I would like to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee because I think that there could be a change for the better in this city and I would love to drive and be a part of that change as a member of the YAC. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

2. What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* I have skills in volunteering, public speaking, and planning. I believe that this would make me a great candidate because I learned a lot about planning and volunteering from my Boy Scout Troop 201. I am the Patrol Leader meaning I am the lead or "head" of around 12 scouts and lead them during activities I am also a member of the Patrol Leader Council where I plan for outings and events. Doing everything from drumming up interest among scouts, securing adults to come to the outing, booking campsites, and making agendas. Having to do this numerous times for outings, like a 10-mile hike at Las Trampas and leading campouts such as a Lake Chabout outing, and having fun outings like a corn maze and rockin jump outing. In addition, I have over 20 hours of volunteer service where I have done things like, picking up trash, making cards for nurses, making toys for dogs, helping fire victims recover from California wildfires by making sieves for them to find their valuables and refurbishing bikes for the underprivileged. I think I could make Dublin a better place by bringing my planning, advertising, and previous volunteering experience to help make Dublin an even better city on top of what it already is. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

3. What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC could address these issues?*
I believe the main issues teens in Dublin are facing are mental health and not being able to cause change. I think that the YAC could address this by holding more forums and providing more additional resources for teens like additional counseling support and other things to make teens feel better about their mental health. We can also hold more YAC forums which are crucial to letting teens express how they feel and what if anything they want to change. So by allowing teens to discuss their issues it will provide more insights into what we can do to address their wants or needs. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

I think that I will be able to devote time to all of the meetings and activities, as I still have time and can contribute it towards making the city I grew up in and genuinely love an even better place. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.) 1265

5. How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* Based on my experience with marketing and advertising events as a Scout in my troop of 50 scouts, I believe that one effective way to get other teens involved in community and City-sponsored activities is through targeted advertising. One way of achieving this is through leveraging social media platforms and other online methods of communication to reach teens where they are already active and engaged. Additionally, partnering with local schools can help spread the word about upcoming events and opportunities for them to be engaged with the city. Itâ€™s crucial to get teens more involved in their communities because it helps them develop important skills such as teamwork, and civic responsibility. By participating in community events and activities, teens can also build connections with others and feel a sense of belonging and loyalty to their city which can help to further their leadership and sense of civic duty. That's why I think I can do this because of my previous experience as a scout advertising events to get 30+ people to come to outings with only emails and 2 in-person meetings to get my point across.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

6. Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting? If yes, what was the meeting date and what was the outcome of the item(s) you were interested in?* I have not recently attended a YAC meeting but I plan to attend one soon. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

8. A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Upload Letter of Recommendation (required).*
Riddish - 2023 YAC LoR (1).pdf
Upload 2nd Letter of Recommendation (optional)
Riddhish Letter.pdf
Application materials must be submitted via this online application form. The application deadline is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 24, 2023. Applications or letters of recommendation will not be accepted after the deadline. 1266
Fil de Cal
San Ramon, CA 94582
March 6th 2023
Dublin YAC Application: Riddish Saravanan
Letter of Recommendation
To Whom It May Concern,
This is to provide support to Riddish’s request to serve on the City’s Youth Advisory Committee (YAC) for the 2023-2024 term.

In my role as Scoutmaster and Assistant Scoutmaster of Scouts BSA Troop 201 in San Ramon, I had the opportunity to know and appreciate Riddish’s qualities as he has progressed through the Scout ranks over the past few years.

Riddish has displayed a great deal of interest in helping his community through service projects, his behavior, and his contributions to his fellow Scouts and Troop. His leadership qualities, his analytical thinking and proactive attitude would make a great addition to Dublin’s YAC, and provide factual, constructive support to the Committee's activities and goals.

Sincerely,
F. de Cal
ASM Troop San Ramon
1267
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1268

Application Submittal
Your completed application must be submitted via this online form. Application submittals must include the following items:

Questions
Please direct questions to Liz Eilliott, Recreation Supervisor, at 925-833-6645 or email First Name*
Arni
Last Name*
Saxena
Street Address*
Print
Youth Advisory Committee Application 2023-2024 term - Submission #5769 Date Submitted: 3/23/2023
1269
City*
Dublin
State*
California
Zip*
94568
Email Address*
Phone Number*
What school will you attend in the 2023-2024 school year?* Dublin High School
What grade will you be in during the 2023-2024 school year?* 10th

1. Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* This will provide me opportunity to engage with other teen members of the local community and hear their views. I want to be able to question and challenge the views of other people both teens and adults in a constructive way, to broaden my views, and to have an active role in making decisions that will best serve the teen community of Dublin. I also want to be able to learn and grow my social and planning skills, and to benefit personally and professionally. I also want to use this opportunity to expand my circle to make a difference; to do something for the community; to have something useful to do, and to do something that impacts the community in a positive way.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

2. What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* I am hardworking, organized, responsible teenager who prefers to be in open environment where my voice can be heard, and I am a very self-motivated person. I am an independent thinker who is also a good team player. I have won 3rd place in Alameda County Science fair working independently while I was also in Destination Imagination working well in a group in my elementary and middle school. I have also won the silver award for Girls Scout on building a platform for teen mental health issues along with my troop. I work well under pressure as I always had the maximum allowed electives right from middle school while maintaining my GPA. At present I am freshmen at DHS with 3 electives and all straight Aâ€™s . I love learning, and I want to recieve some hands on experience about city adminstration, and I am willing to put in my work for it. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

3. What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC could address these issues?*
One of the major issues I believe teens today in Dublin deal with is mental health. There is peer pressure to fit in with friends, acadamic pressure to perform well, managing social media, taking your health into your hands, avoiding substances like alcohol and nicotine, being safe online, and bullying, all of which can take a toll over time. I think that the YAC can run awareness campaigns/programs for each of the above issues along with city servies such as police and doctors, and social media and web engineers along with DUSD services and let teens know to reach out to safe adults and help them get the information and help that they need.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)
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4. What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2023-2024 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities?* For the upcoming academic year I am planning to be in very few activities, which include Girls Scouts and karate along with YAC. My focus will be on my academics and to learn and contribute positively at YAC. (This boxcan be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

5. How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* I would get other teens involved by spreading the word through the internet, social media, and word of mouth. We can ask teachers to inform their classrooms about it as well, in case some students missed out. We can mention it during other events as well, such as relevant club meetings. We can start a fundraiser for an organization that people are aware about, so they can learn more if they wish to. I would make sure that there are periodical reminders as well, so that students who wish to join have easy access to information.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

6. Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting? If yes, what was the meeting date and what was the outcome of the item(s) you were interested in?* No, I have not attended past meetings before, but I have seen past meeting agendas and minutes on the Dublin city website. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

8. A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Upload Letter of Recommendation (required).*
Letter of Recommendation.pdf
Upload 2nd Letter of Recommendation (optional)
Choose File No file selected
Application materials must be submitted via this online application form. The application deadline is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 24, 2023. Applications or letters of recommendation will not be accepted after the deadline. 1271
1272

Application Submittal
Your completed application must be submitted via this online form. Application submittals must include the following items:

Questions
Please direct questions to Liz Eilliott, Recreation Supervisor, at 925-833-6645 or email First Name*
Kiya
Last Name*
Sehgal
Street Address*
Print
Youth Advisory Committee Application 2023-2024 term - Submission #5717 Date Submitted: 3/20/2023
1273
City*
Dublin
State*
CA
Zip*
94568
Email Address*
Phone Number*
What school will you attend in the 2023-2024 school year?* Dublin High School
What grade will you be in during the 2023-2024 school year?* 10th

1. Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* I have been living in Dublin my whole life and I have seen the changes that have occurred and how it affects the community. I feel as though I am a good contributor in seeing others views and ideas but also making my own that could be beneficial for the city. I also have had leadership and cooperative roles over the past few years that I believe have helped me feel like I can contribute to this team and help out. I am one of the freshman delegates of my school's HOSA club. There are 2 delegates per grade level for that club and the club consists of 150+ students. I am also in a program called LLS in which we help get donations to fund cancer research by reaching out and doing volunteer activities. In 8th grade, I was part of my school's PEAC elective in which we also helped others. My friend and I ran our own small tutoring nonprofit. I do things like this because I like to help out with the community and help others have great experiences. I like to take initiative and I want there to be good changes that benefit the community and help others therefore I feel fit to be a member in YAC. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

2. What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* I am a good leader and spokesperson. I was a peer educator and counselor in 8th grade in which we would work with others and run events as well as help the underclassmen. At one event, we had a screening for a movie about mental health and I was lucky enough to speak up about the message the movie was giving and let parents and peers know the importance of mental health. I am also a freshman delegate at my school's HOSA club. We have a conference coming up called SLC in which we discuss health professional events and do testing. As part of the executive members (delegates), we are creating a mini-con in which we can help other students with their questions about SLC. I also am just a great contributor and leader when it even just comes down to school projects or presentations. As delegate, I get to help make decisions for the club and take on some leadership roles for events. Then in Model UN, it is similar to speech and debate in which you can speak and give your ideas and input to help others. I feel like that is very similar to the council because in both you get to speak in front of others and give your input and help others by creating ideas and decisions together. This helps contribute to my skills I can use to help the YAC. I used to help tutor kids and because of that I am a good listener and under-stander and by listening to others ideas, we can help get better understandings and make good decisions for the community. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)
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3. What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC could address these issues?*
I feel like there is a lot of drug use at Dublin High School that should be prevented. We can do that by making it harder to buy and get your hands on drugs in Dublin stores especially for teenagers. The main issue is vaping and smoking to reduce the amount of vapes sold and also to tell students more about what they are putting in their body and what happens long term if they do vape or smoke. We could do that by having games and information on that at for example booths at the St Patrick's Day fair or the splatter fair. There could also be events at school with TUPE educators and games to help students interact and learn. Another issue I believe is happening is that sports for DHS have too many practices. I have not heard people talk about this but in my personal opinion, I have seen that DHS sports can sometimes end up being too much for a student, with all the homework that is needed to be done and all the studying. I have seen other schools only have 1-3 practices a week which is good for practicing but DHS has 5-6 days + games and that can exhaust a student. So maybe we can help lower the amount of practices in sports at DHS.
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4. What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2023-2024 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities?* I am currently involved in the HOSA and Model UN clubs at my school. I am also in an organization called LLS which is a cancer research funding program. I am an active member of those but I will still have plenty of time to devote to YAC meetings and activities whenever needed.
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5. How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* I would post those events on social media platforms since that is where teens are most active like instagram, snapchat, and tiktok. I could also put up flyers around the DHS campus since it is such a big school and everyone passes by many buildings everyday, they could see the event flyers and feel intrigued to going. Also giving a copy of those flyers to every teacher so they can put it up in their room and tell their students about it. I would just also reach out to my friends about it and tell them to tell their friends about it as well so that we could get as many people to come as possible. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

6. Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting? If yes, what was the meeting date and what was the outcome of the item(s) you were interested in?* No, I have not been able to but I would be happy to attend soon. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

8. A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Upload Letter of Recommendation (required).*
LoR for Kiya Sehgal 2023 Dublin City Council draft1.pdf Upload 2nd Letter of Recommendation (optional)
Choose File No file selected
Application materials must be submitted via this online application form. The application deadline is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 24, 2023. Applications or letters of recommendation will not be accepted after the deadline. 1275
Dublin Unified School District
Dublin High School
Dublin, California, 94568
Principal AP AP AP AP AP
Maureen Byrne Kevin Cushing Lisa Diaconis Whitney Dwyer Diane Santamorena
Andrew
Waranoff
March 2023
To whom it may concern,
Please accept this letter of recommendation for Kiya Sehgal.

My name is Isaiah Mohr, I am Kiya Sehgal’s biology instructor at Dublin High School. As of writing this, I have had the pleasure of teaching Kiya for almost 8 months now. During this time, I have had opportunities galore to observe how Kiya performs academically and socially and cannot recommend her enough for the Youth Advisory Committee.

Kiya is a consummate scholar who goes out of her way to chase down what she needs to know. Kiya does not horde what she learns – she shares it. She’s never afraid to speak up in class whether to provide an answer or ask a question. In every group she has been in, whether chosen by her or assigned by me, Kiya has found ways to contribute.

Sometimes this means she takes charge of the situation, spearheads projects, and delegates tasks for others; when that happens, she is comfortable in that role and I’ve never heard a complaint from a group member. Indeed, more than a few groupings owe their success to her ability to organize and drive others.

Having said that, Kiya does not need or demand a central position of power to contribute.

She works incredibly well with strong-willed (even bull-headed) peers. When arguing for her position, she maintains her cool. If her way triumphs, she is magnanimous and moves on quickly; if she gives way, she accepts it and keeps at her task. Her ability to meld well with others in any setting is much appreciated by this teacher! Cheers,
Isaiah Mohr
Biology Teacher
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Application Submittal
Your completed application must be submitted via this online form. Application submittals must include the following items:

Questions
Please direct questions to Liz Eilliott, Recreation Supervisor, at 925-833-6645 or email First Name*
Arpita
Last Name*
Shanbhag
Street Address*
Print
Youth Advisory Committee Application 2023-2024 term - Submission #5844 Date Submitted: 3/24/2023
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City*
Dublin
State*
California
Zip*
94568
Email Address*
Phone Number*
What school will you attend in the 2023-2024 school year?* Emerald High School
What grade will you be in during the 2023-2024 school year?* 9th grade

1. Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* From when I was a young child, at the age of 3 or 4, my parents spoke for me and made my decisions. Other kids around the same young age are most likely to have gone through this same mentality of their parentâ€™s choices, being their choices.

But today as we grow up, we want a sense of our own voice, choices, and responsibilities. I want to use that freedom to benefit us. Our community and the city where we have been grown, raised, and loved. Dublin is incredibly diverse. It consists of newborn babies, tweens, teenagers, adults, etc. If the older half of the community can make mature decisions based on their experiences, why canâ€™t the youth of Dublin do the same? Through the Dublin YAC, I want my voice to be heard, my views to be expressed, and these traits to be embraced in order to impact the future of the youth in Dublin, through informed decisions where the experience and knowledge of the subject matter come from the seasoned professionals and the youth, as one. Through the YAC, I want to be able to communicate critically with the other members of the community and committee. I would like the rest of the committee to treat me seriously and acknowledge my presence and my words. When it comes to interacting with the rest of the board members, I want to hear their voices and views. Then, form inquiries, provide constructive yet reasonable feedback, and make them think outside the box. I also want this to apply to myself and I want to be challenged by the members to think of something unique that can change our lives. I want to bring myself and other fellow members of Dublin's youth to the goal of empowering the youth's voice. Additionally, developing a good rapport with the committee members, officials, and the youth of Dublin is important to enact change. Connections with others are what our world thrives on.

Whenever we need a new idea, opportunity, or piece of information, we always turn and rely on the people we have created friendships with - professional and friendly. Using these newly established connections, I hope to increase the standings and profile of young people worldwide, starting small, such as in our city, Dublin. For the youth of Dublin, I would like to raise awareness of the projects that would be conducted throughout the meetings held. In conclusion, the need to raise awareness for young teenagersâ€™ decisions is what Dublin needs the most. Even though adults have a major say, the youth needs to have equal rights for the purpose of prosperity and growth. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)
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2. What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* I believe a powerful, change-making candidate for the YAC would be someone who is a passionate attentive listener who thrives for success, for themselves and others - and I believe I am that someone. Even though I consider myself an extrovert, Iâ€™m the type of person that usually listens to others talk and rant, and I am able to create responses that make sense and acknowledge that their opinion and voice matters to people. It is proven that listening to others contains more value than talking, as it gives you a sense of self-awareness, helps you build connections and relationships, and allows you to learn and share intellectual and inspirational topics and remarks. Mentioning inspirational aspects of life, I strive to be someone that people can look up to as a source of originality. Take, for example, in the Girls4Sports Club that Iâ€™m currently in, someone asked me for ideas for a poster raising awareness for our event. I was able to provide such ideas which allowed me to be awarded the â€œMost Inspiringâ€ mock award during our meeting reflecting on the fundraiser event. Whenever I am passionate about something, I will do anything in my power to achieve to that goal. The reason that Iâ€™m passionate about small and big things in life, is that I have the ability to work up to that goal which will benefit me and others in the future. I have a passion for helping the youth in Dublin because I would have that overwhelming feeling that I have accomplished something that has changed our lives for the better. Passion is my main driver when it comes to finding content in myself when Iâ€™ve done something. If I were to change the youthâ€™s lives in Dublin, I would be able to do that with the burning passion I consist of.

Fun fact, my name, Arpita, actually means dedication in English, and I have proved that correct through my passions in life. I am dedicated to completing goals and tasks that will impact our future. Including being dedicated to accomplishing certain priorities, I have always been able to motivate myself to become dedicated to things that will s help someone or something in one way or another. These are qualities that I possess within myself, and I hope to epitomize these attributes to others. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

3. What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC could address these issues?*
Today the youth in Dublin is struggling with issues that are beyond their control, and problems that are caused by others, even if it may be intentional or not. Some of the main and most crucial issues that teenagers deal with are stress, academic pressure, being a people pleaser, caring about what others think, being judged, and many, many more. Through YAC, we can help overcome these issues, together. Throughout school, we have been taught about the basic principles of life such as how we shouldnâ€™t bully others at all. However, we see that bullying still occurs no matter what, and it is thought to be inevitable to get rid of. I believe that we should help schools create a safe space for kids and help the students to create strong and comfortable relationships with adults at school. For instance, the counselors at school should start roaming the campus more often and talk to the scholars in a friendly, yet respectful manner. The feeling that you are acquaintances often aids in the process of easing up to trusted adults who can help benefit and improve your life formally. However, throughout the sessions, the counselors should incorporate what they felt in their middle/high school years for the conversation to be more natural. When the scholar is talking about their personal experiences, if the counselor has ever experienced anything similar themselves, they should explain how that whole episode went. They should start by setting the scene and listing mistakes that they made and ways that they could avoid those mistakes and solve the problem efficiently. By making the conversations not seem formal at all, the counselors should advise the students to take action and inform their parents and the school itself because bullying isnâ€™t something that should be taken lightly. From experience that I have been in and witnessed others being in, people donâ€™t enjoy informing authorities or adults about what they are feeling by others because they would be considered a â €œsnitchâ€. When other students believe that they may be labeled as â€œsnitchesâ€ for their school life, it shows signs that they may care about what their peers think about them. However, it needs to be normalized because other peopleâ€™s thoughts do not define who we are, our thoughts, actions, feelings, etc. YAC can help raise awareness about this subject matter by holding presentations for the students that teach them effective ways to change their mindset and increase their awareness. When scholars change their mindset, they are able to improve and work on accepting themselves and showering themselves with care. In this world, the only person who is going to save you is yourself. This starts with students changing their attitude and outlook on life and valuing themselves, their thoughts, and their opinions, more than others. These messages need to be illustrated and conveyed through presentations or videos the YAC can create or host. One of the main reasons people tend to stress about what others think of them is because they want to be something called a people pleaser, or literally someone who strives and fuels themselves by pleasing others. Being a people pleaser is negative and can also lead to academic pressure/stress. Academic stress comes from wanting to receive perfect grades in school and choosing work over health in order to make others happy. One question that we should encourage our peers to journal and brainstorm about is â €œWhat makes ME happy?â€ and â€œIf nobody is acting like a people pleaser to you, why are YOU pleasing THEM?â€. You need to start treating yourself with kindness and self-love before trying to make others happy. The YAC should start hosting events, conducting presentations, contacting counselors to share this information in a 1-on-1 relationship with the student, providing support, and making sure that the students live in a safe and healthy environment at home and school. These negative factors in life need to be demolished when young, so teens can strive to be the most aspirational adults. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)
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From current freshmen and sophomores, I have heard numerous scary stories about how they survive with practically 5 hours of sleep every night, but they are still able to attend all their classes, volunteer, and become well-rounded. I am determined to be the same as these aspiring high schoolers, but with a healthy amount of sleeping, studying, and time for enjoying myself. I consider myself to be extremely organized and I have mastered the skill of time management. I use the â€˜Pomodoro Techniqueâ€™ which allows me to use my energy for an allotted time period, and after work, I can take a break, which results in a source of motivation. The technique is that you work, with all of your energy and concentration for 25 minutes on one task, and take a 5-minute break afterward. After you have completed 4 rounds of working and taking breaks, you take a longer, 15- minute break. Another way that I am organized is that I am also able to divide up large projects into workable sections every day. Now that I have mastered the skill of managing my time efficiently, I am able to attend events, parties, and more with other people. I can ensure that I will be able to devote time each month to YAC meetings and activities because I have effectively learned how to take time out of my day to do everything because, with 24 hours in your hand, you can accomplish a lot. In the 2023-2024 school year, I will be involved in math classes, art, dance, and swimming. I am currently enrolled in a math class at the AoPS Pleasanton Academy where I take Geometry. In the 2023-2024 school year, I will take a placement test and hope to be placed in Algebra II. Currently, I have a passion for art, dance, and swimming and I take time out of my week to achieve and practice these hobbies regularly. I aim for about an hour a week for each passion I have. For art, I mainly look up sketching tutorials on YouTube as I am focusing on creating humans in an anime-like style currently. Through dance, I follow along K-Pop choreographies created by the music group and I attempt to complete the dance the way that K-Pop idols do. For swimming, I go to the Wave every Saturday during the time frame of 1 p.m. - 4 p.m. to practice swimming and teach my brother how to swim as well. I believe that I am well-rounded in the general aspects of life and I also believe that I can definitely make time for every YAC meeting and activity.
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5. How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* Teenagers can find themselves absorbed in social media and stress. Social media is often used as a coping mechanism for people like us - to escape reality or observe the events their friends are going through. Some know when they should be stopping to scroll mindlessly through social media posts, stories, highlights, etc., but others will keep on going until they have seen everything social media has to offer to them. With the amount of time teenagers spend scrolling on social media, it is likely that they will land upon posts that promote the youth to be involved in their community, nearby events, and Citysponsored activities. So, one way that teens can find out information to become involved is through social media, where people such as myself can raise awareness about these activities by posting on popular social media platforms. Social media is often seen as negative, but one can use it for good to promote healthy lifestyle choices and inform young people about important local matters. Dublinâ€™s youth community can become involved in activities and be informed about them through schools. At school, we use a technology platform called Canvas, which helps us send announcements to the entire school about any upcoming events, fundraisers, field trips, etc. I can take initiative and contact a teacher who is actively involved in promoting school spirit, counselors, etc., and I would ask them to create an announcement with the information that would be provided about the teen events and City-sponsored activities and create an event reminder on the studentâ€™s calendar, so that way all students in the high school would be aware of what activities Dublin is providing. It doesnâ€™t only need to be about announcements and current events going on, but it can also consist of ways to gain the attention of the youth and ask them if they want a voice in a choice that the city of Dublin wants to make for us. This process can be done through polling by schools. Also, I am attending Dublin High School for the first semester or the end of 2023, and I am later attending Emerald High School for the rest of my high school pathway. This ensures that I will have connections with both high school teachers, counselors, and other staff members in both schools. So, both schools can receive the same information from the same student. I am currently attending Cottonwood Creek (CCS), which is a K-8 school that causes the sizes of the grades to become smaller compared to other middle schools such as Fallon and Wells. Since Cottonwood Creek is a smaller school, it is easier to create ever-lasting connections with the teachers and students. So even when I am in high school, I can always contact the middle school teachers at CCS to spread information about ways even middle schoolers can be involved in Dublinâ €™s community. Using Canva, it becomes easy to create aesthetic posters that are appealing to the vision of others and it also helps efficiently convey information. I can create posters through a virtual platform, such as Canva as stated before, or I can hand-draw posters that inform and remind students about what Dublin has to offer events/community-wise, and I can also help hang them around the campus, with permission. Posters are a great and efficient way to increase local awareness of upcoming occasions. I have already had experience with this act through the Girls4Sports club at my school, where I created and hung posters to raise awareness of the events that we hosted through the club such as a fundraiser and a TEDx event. The club was able to receive many donations for the fundraiser for Sacramentoâ€™s Childrenâ€™s Home organization and applicants for speaking at the TEDx event. These are some of the main actions and abilities that I can provide to the Dublin Youth Advisory Committee when it comes to raising awareness and alerting the youth of our city (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)
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6. Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting? If yes, what was the meeting date and what was the outcome of the item(s) you were interested in?* I have currently not attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting at the moment. However, I will be on March 28, 2023, where I will be listening to teenagers of my age advocate changing the mascot of Emerald High School. During the presentation, the teenagers will be speaking out for others and showing that many people arenâ€™t in favor of the current mascot and believe that they have a voice to fight against this issue as they are rising freshmen in Emerald High School in 2024. However, I attended a student-initiated meeting with the Emerald High School Principal, Mr. Rojas, to advocate for a change in itsâ€™ mascot. I later conversed with the principal of Cottonwood Creek, Dr. Ventura, if she could help support the cause for a voice and choice in the possibility of getting our advocated wants into reality. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

8. A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Upload Letter of Recommendation (required).*
Arpita Letter of Rec CCS Letterhead - Sargent.pdf
Upload 2nd Letter of Recommendation (optional)
Rec Letter - Arpita Shanbhag.docx
Application materials must be submitted via this online application form. The application deadline is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 24, 2023. Applications or letters of recommendation will not be accepted after the deadline. 1281

COTTONWOOD CREEK SCHOOL
DUBLIN UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT Lorianne R. Ventura, Ed.D.

Principal
Friday 17 March 2023
To Whom It May Concern:

I am delighted to discuss and share with you Arpita Shanbhag’s outstanding qualities. To provide context for this reference, I’ve taught secondary English in the public school system for over 20 years. Currently, I have the pleasure of being Arpita’s English 8 instructor at Cottonwood Creek K-8 School. It is a privilege to recommend Miss Shanbhag for the 2023-2024 City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee.

Arpita is both a critical and insightful thinker. She is always looking to walk in another person's shoes to fully understand their perspective, so as to make the world a better place for all people. This is exemplified in her community service and after-school activities. Arpita volunteers weekly at Guradwaras and Sai Baba temples serving food, helping wash dishes, setting plates for others, and much more. Additionally, She is a member of the Girls4Sports Club, a non-profit and student-led national initiative to bring equality to sports. Miss Shanbhag has helped manage fundraisers to provide sports equipment to the Sacramento Children's Home and public service (TEDx) events to create awareness of crucial problems and topics in our society. Equally impressive is her involvement in many programs such as math olympiad, cultural dance and swimming, since the age of 5. Moreover, competing at all levels to expand her STEAM skills through various organizations (Destination Imagination, Zero Robotics, CML, Math Counts, AoPS Problem Solvers Competition), has earned Arpita accolades and top honors, qualifying to compete in a nationwide event this April.

Her extracurriculars are only paralleled by her scholastic achievement. She is taking 2 high school level courses, Spanish and Geometry and has maintained a 4.0 GPA every term, earning her Principal’s Honor Roll, along with Integrity in Action awards for demonstrating trustworthiness and respect. Obviously, Arpita keeps her priorities in perspective, taking full advantage of the opportunities school affords her, and applying herself to the nth degree to attain her goals.

Miss Shanbhag is a change maker at only 13 years old. She is on a path to success because she sets high standards, applies ethical principles to impact positive change in herself and her community. Dublin’s Youth Advisory Committee would be extremely fortunate to have such a thoughtful and intelligent young person as a member. If you have further questions, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Sincerely,
Laurie K . Sargent
Laurie K. Sargent
English Teacher
2400 Central Parkway • Dublin • California 94568 • (925) 833-3333 • Fax (925) 833-3711 1282 Cottonwood Creek K-8 School
Dublin Unified School District
Neeta Kaleshwari
Math Teacher
21, March 2023
To Whom It May Concern:

I am Neeta Kaleshwari. I am a Math teacher at Cottonwood Creek K-8 School. I am teaching Advanced Geometry to Arpita Shanbhag this school year. It is my pleasure to recommend Miss Shanbhag for the 2023/24 City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee.

Arpita has excellent communication skills. Her notes and work are very organized, clear and concise. She demonstrates her oral articulateness in class discussions. She explains her views and supports her thoughts and ideas with facts and research. Arpita is highly proficient in applying the class lessons to real world situations. She also demonstrates good teamwork skills in group assignments. Her overall intelligence is also reflected in her grades for the course. She has maintained A+ in every term.

Arpita enjoys volunteering and believes that it creates a strong relationship and connection with family and community. She volunteers at her local religious places and at Girls4Sports Club, a non-profit student led/national initiative organization. Through this club she has helped in hosting two events - Sacramento Children’s Home Fundraiser and TEDex event, upcoming in Spring 2023. She has won many awards and recognitions. In 2015 and 2017 she won Aloha Math Olympiad in her grade level. In the 2022 Hackathon Event by Dublin Youth Advisory, she was among the top 5 participants. Arpita and her team won first place in Zero Robotics in the year 2021. This was at a National level. They were placed fourth in the nation in 2022 for the same competition. In AoPS, she was at third place in Problem Solving competition and she was qualified to go to the nationwide finals.

At a personal level, Arpita is a well disciplined student with a pleasant personality. She has proven herself to have perseverance, initiative and leadership qualities. I highly recommend Arpita Shanbhag for the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee. She will be a positive asset to your program. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any further questions.

Sincerely,
Neeta Kaleshwari
Neeta Kaleshwari
6-8 Math Teacher
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Application Submittal
Your completed application must be submitted via this online form. Application submittals must include the following items:

Questions
Please direct questions to Liz Eilliott, Recreation Supervisor, at 925-833-6645 or email First Name*
Tanisha
Last Name*
Shanbhag
Street Address*
Print
Youth Advisory Committee Application 2023-2024 term - Submission #5716 Date Submitted: 3/20/2023
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City*
Dublin
State*
CA
Zip*
94568
Email Address*
Phone Number*
What school will you attend in the 2023-2024 school year?* Dublin High School
What grade will you be in during the 2023-2024 school year?* 10 1. Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* Hey Dublin YAC! I am writing to express my interest in joining the City's Youth Advisory Committee. As a young person passionate about making a positive difference in my community, I believe that being part of this committee would be an excellent opportunity for me to achieve this goal. I am excited about the prospect of being able to voice my opinions and suggestions on issues that affect young people in my city. I believe that my unique perspective and experiences can contribute to meaningful discussions and lead to positive changes in our community. In addition, I am eager to gain valuable experience in leadership, advocacy, and community organizing. Being part of the Youth Advisory Committee will allow me to work collaboratively with others, and develop my communication and problem-solving skills, which will be invaluable to me as I pursue my future goals (I'm hoping on establishing a career in the medical field and I believe these skills are essential there :) I also look forward to networking with community leaders, government officials, and other influential individuals in my community.

I believe that building connections will help me better understand local government and how decisions are made and potentially open doors for future opportunities. Most importantly, I am committed to being a voice for my peers and advocating for issues that affect them, and wanting to create a community in which everybody, especially our youth, feels inclusive regardless of any barriers. In the end, our goal is to want to break those barriers and create a unified city. Starting small, in our local neighborhood, can eventually grow our ideas and spread them throughout the nation and then the world - my ultimate goal - and reach out to kids everywhere and understand and aid them through issues our generation has to fight against. I am keen on contributing to the development of policies and programs that can benefit young people in my community. Overall, I believe that being part of the City's Youth Advisory Committee is a great way to create positive change in our community, and I am excited about the prospect of working with other committee members to identify issues that need attention and work on solutions that can benefit our peers and our community as a whole.
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2. What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* An essential part of working in a government lead group is having good leadership skills. I have been part of the student council since first grade at my private school, along with being prefect for four years in my elementary school and the founder and officer of numerous clubs in middle school, which has allowed me to develop strong leadership abilities. Through these experiences, I have learned how to effectively communicate with others, delegate tasks, and take charge of situations to ensure that goals are achieved. Being a prefect for four years in my elementary school allowed me to learn how to manage and mentor other students effectively, ensuring that everyone was included and valued. As the founder and officer of various clubs and captain of three sports teams in middle school, I learned how to manage a team and lead them to success. These experiences have taught me the importance of being a good listener, patient, and open-minded. I believe that these skills will be valuable in the YAC, where effective leadership is crucial to achieving our shared goals. I am confident that my experiences will enable me to make a positive contribution to the committee and help me become a successful member of the team. In addition, I possess strong teamwork skills and I am always willing to work collaboratively with others to achieve common goals. I strongly believe that teamwork is key to achieving positive outcomes in any work setting. As a theatre kid, performing in several shows has taught me to work in unison and be accepting and encouraging of everyone on set and in your cast, and how to get along with everybody and put on a great show. I see myself as a social butterfly, meaning I enjoy interacting with others and I am always keen on helping and understanding them. Being part of several sports teams I have also learned how to persevere through challenging times by being able to stay strong as a group in its entirety. I believe that effective communication and active listening are as well crucial components of teamwork, and I always strive to listen to the ideas of other people and consider their opinions. I value diversity and believe that working with individuals from different backgrounds and experiences can bring new and valuable perspectives to the table. In summary, my good teamwork skills, willingness to work and listen to the ideas of others, and sociable personality make me an excellent team player and a valuable member of any team. Last but certainly not least I am excited about the prospect of joining the YAC, particularly because I have recently moved to Dublin and I believe this will be a great opportunity to get to know my new community better. Furthermore, as a high schooler, I have all the more opportunities to do so. I am eager to learn about the local issues affecting young people and to contribute my ideas and skills to create positive change in the community. I am committed to making a positive impact in my locality and I believe that serving on the youth advisory committee is an excellent way to achieve this. I look forward to collaborating with other members of the committee to make a difference in the lives of young people in our community. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

3. What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC could address these issues?*
In my opinion, teens in Dublin are currently dealing with several issues that teens worldwide are and that require immediate attention. One of the most pressing issues is mental health, including stress, anxiety, and depression, which are common among young people due to academic pressure, social media exposure, and issues within their personal and family life. The rise of cyberbullying and online harassment is another significant issue that affects many teens in the Bay Area. Additionally, homelessness, drug addiction, and social inequality are persistent issues that have a severe impact on the lives of young people in the region. An advisory committee can play a crucial role in addressing these issues by raising awareness, advocating for policy changes, and developing programs and resources that support the mental health and well-being of young people in Dublin. The committee can also collaborate with local organizations and government officials to address issues related to homelessness, drug addiction, and social inequality, and work towards creating a safer, healthier, and more equitable environment for young people in the region.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

4. What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2023-2024 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities?* Activities I am currently involved/will be involved in include: - Schools courses - Speech and Debate - Dublin MSF - Dublin Key Club - Dublin Red Cross - HOSA - Musical Theatre - Professional Singing - Varsity Soccer - Varsity Lacrosse - Bollywood and HipHop Dance Teams Although it may look like it's a lot to handle, with efficient time management skills, I will able to dedicate about 5 - 6 hours and that being the least! I am passionate on making an impact in our community and willing to put in the time for it!
(This boxcan be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)
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5. How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* One of my main goals would be to encourage more teenagers to get involved in the community, teen events, and Citysponsored activities. Here are some ideas that I believe could be effective in achieving this goal: Social media campaigns:

Social media is a powerful tool for reaching out to young people. I would suggest launching a social media campaign that targets teenagers in the area, highlighting the benefits of getting involved in community activities. This campaign could include posts, stories, and videos that showcase the fun and exciting activities available, as well as testimonials from other teens who have participated in similar events. Collaborations with local schools: Schools are an excellent resource for reaching out to young people. I would suggest working with local schools to promote upcoming community events and activities, and even offering incentives or extra credit for students who attend. Additionally, partnering with schools to host events on school grounds could provide a convenient and familiar location for teenagers to engage in community activities. Youth-led initiatives:

Teenagers are more likely to get involved in activities that they feel are meaningful and relevant to their interests. As such, I would encourage the creation of youth-led initiatives that focus on issues that matter to young people. These initiatives could range from environmental activism to mental health awareness and could be organized and led entirely by teenagers. Engage with community leaders: Finally, it's essential to engage with community leaders to ensure that they are aware of the importance of involving young people in community activities. I would suggest organizing meetings with local business owners, city council members, and other community leaders to discuss the benefits of involving teenagers in community events and activities. Overall, my approach would be to create a multifaceted strategy that leverages social media, local schools, youth-led initiatives, and community engagement to encourage more teenagers to get involved in the community, teen events, and Citysponsored activities. By taking a holistic approach, I believe that we can make a significant impact in increasing youth participation in community activities. I also want to add that usually teens ignore events similar to these when hosted by adults or such because they feel they are unable to relate with another generation. With the YAC hosting such events, it reassures and encourages members of our age group to take part and understand issues they may be facing. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

6. Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting? If yes, what was the meeting date and what was the outcome of the item(s) you were interested in?* No, I have not attended a YAC or Dublin City meeting.
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8. A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Upload Letter of Recommendation (required).*
Tanisha Shanbhag LOR (1).pdf
Upload 2nd Letter of Recommendation (optional)
Tanisha Shanbhag LH.pdf
Application materials must be submitted via this online application form. The application deadline is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 24, 2023. Applications or letters of recommendation will not be accepted after the deadline. 1287

DUBLIN HIGH SCHOOL
"THE GAEL FORCE"
A California Distinguished School
Maureen Byrne, Principal Krista Taylor, Assistant Principal Paul Faris, Assistant Principal Lenni Velez, Assistant Principal Diane Santamorena, Assistant Principal Jennifer Nickl, Assistant Principal Chris MacDougall
English Teacher
Dublin High School
To Whom it May Concern:

I am writing to recommend Tanisha Shanbhag in high regard. She excelled as a student in my Health class her last semester.

The first thing that I noticed about Tanisha was her focus. She was always particularly self-motivated to apply herself to the tasks at hand. Tanisha was someone that I could count on to achieve at a high level, at the best of her ability, with the willingness to help her classmates that needed assistance with concepts while working in small groups. She also effectively shared her thoughts in full-class activities.

This sharing of insights was integral to her success and that of her classmates. I value accurate, authentic contributions like Tanisha’s while trying to relate a particular lesson’s objectives to my students. She always did so while remaining serious and respectful. She also had warm friendships with her peers.

Besides her tangible achievements, Tanisha brings responsibility, positivity, respect, and friendliness with her wherever she goes. I am confident that the organizations she finds herself in will be excited to have her. Please give her serious consideration for selection.

Sincerely,
Chris MacDougall
Dublin, California
Main FAX
www.dublinusd.org/dhs
1288
Michelle Reimer
Dublin High School
Dublin, CA 94568
March 20th, 2023
Youth Advisory Committee
Dublin City Hall
100 Civic Plaza
Dublin, CA 94568
To Whom It May Concern,
It is with pleasure that I enthusiastically recommend Tanisha Shanbhag for the Dublin Youth Advisory Committee.

My name is Michelle Reimer and I am Tanisha’s freshman English teacher this semester. I have greatly enjoyed working with Tanisha for the past several months and I have seen her consistently demonstrate many personal qualities that cause her to be a great candidate for Dublin’s Youth Advisory Committee.

Tanisha is incredibly friendly and kind and has been very welcoming towards me, a new teacher joining the school in the middle of the year, from my very first day. She has consistently been genuine and caring and she displays this behavior towards her classmates as well, working very well with them on a variety of different activities and assignments. Tanisha is also a very responsible student. She has been committed to completing all of her assignments for my class, always wanting to do the very best work she possibly can.

Another set of qualities I have observed in Tanisha that make her a particularly great fit for the Youth Advisory Committee is her natural capacity for leadership and helping others. She often is the one to take charge in a group, not out of an insistence on being in charge, but because she is often the one to clearly see what must be done and how best to proactively accomplish whatever the task may be.

I am confident that Tanisha would be an excellent fit for Dublin’s Youth Advisory Committee. Please feel free to email me if you have any further questions about this wonderful applicant.

Sincerely,
Michelle Reimer
English Teacher
Dublin High School
1289

Application Submittal
Your completed application must be submitted via this online form. Application submittals must include the following items:

Questions
Please direct questions to Liz Eilliott, Recreation Supervisor, at 925-833-6645 or email First Name*
Atharv
Last Name*
Sharma
Street Address*
Print
Youth Advisory Committee Application 2023-2024 term - Submission #5745 Date Submitted: 3/22/2023
1290
City*
Dublin
State*
California
Zip*
94568
Email Address*
Phone Number*
What school will you attend in the 2023-2024 school year?* Dublin High school
What grade will you be in during the 2023-2024 school year?* 10th

1. Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* Dublin, California, never fails to amaze me with the diversity, inclusion, and acceptance it offers to people from every background. I have called Dublin my home for over twelve years of my life. This community has given me so muchâ€”a diverse outlook, exposure to different cultures, and social awareness from a young age. I want to give back as much as possible as a student, community member, and leader. Being a member of the Youth Advisory Committee is an excellent opportunity for young members of the community, like myself, to have a voice and contribute to the decision-making process of the city. It provides a platform for youth to express their ideas, opinions, and concerns about issues that affect their lives and the community they live in. After hearing about my sister, Khushi Sharmaâ€™s experiences with the YAC in 9th and 10th grade and being on Mayors Council 11th and 12th grade, I realized that being a member of this council would also give me the opportunity to refine leadership skills, learn about local government, and experience working with a diverse set of people as we collaborate on projects that will transform our community from the inside out. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

2. What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* As a strong candidate for the Youth Advisory Committee, I possess excellent communication skills, both verbal and written.

The ability to articulate ideas and opinions clearly and effectively is a crucial detail I would focus on when representing the youth of the community. I also find it important to be a good listener and make an active effort to be open to other perspectives.

As a member of the committee, I will be able to interact with a diverse group of individuals, including other youth, community leaders, and local government officials. Being respectful, courteous, and professional are qualities that I possess and oneâ€™s that will empower me to build positive relationships. Being able to motivate and inspire others, as well as being a team player, are important qualities for success in this role. I have a strong work ethic which is important when working on projects and initiatives for the committee. I am reliable, responsible, and able to work independently and as part of a team, which is crucial for achieving positive results. I also have a friendly and approachable personality that would be a great asset to the committee.

My leadership skills are something that I believe would make me a valuable addition to the YAC. Over the last seven years, I worked to hone my leadership skills as a Boy Scout, serving as an instructor, patrol leader, and den chief, all positions that my peers elected me for and I held for a total of six months. Now, I am preparing to begin one of the greatest projects of my Boy Scouts career: my Eagle Scout Project. I am in the middle of putting together a project plan and have invited younger members of my troop to participate. By doing so, I hope to mentor and guide them as I establish myself as an Eagle Scout. All of these skills and experiences have prepared me to take this next step in my leadership journey, and I believe they will make me an asset to Dublinâ€™s YAC.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)
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3. What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC could address these issues?*
Personally, as a high schooler, the main issues especially in Dublin is the academic pressure, which is placed on students from a young age and significantly affects their mental health. The Youth Action Committee can address this issue by creating programs and initiatives that focus on promoting a healthy work-life balance, which most students struggle to maintain, and supporting students' mental health in new and diverse ways. For instance, the YAC can help organize stress-reduction workshops, offer counseling services, and then work to create peer-support groups. Additionally, YAC can collaborate with local public schools and universities to develop strategies that reduce academic stress and promote academic success. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

4. What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2023-2024 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities?* Some activities that I will be involved in during the 2023 to 2024 school year will be Boy Scouts and DHS Hip Hop team. I will be working on my Eagle Scout Project and attending competitions regularly; however, I understand how to balance my time and will make sure that my extracurriculars do not overlap, intersect, or interfere with my ability to attend YAC meetings. (This boxcan be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

5. How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* Some of the ways I would encourage other teens to get involved would be through social media, offering incentives, and by making the city sponsored activities fun and engaging for teens. Social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter can be great tools for promoting events and activities targeted at teens. It also encourages other teens to share information with their friends through posts and stories. Many teens are motivated by rewards, so offering incentives for attending community events will make them want to participate. Some incentives would be anywhere from volunteer hours or offering free food to entice them to attend. I would ensure that each event centered around a cause that affected students or one that they were passionate about. To get a pulse on these topics, I would send out surveys to local schools or use polling features on social media. I would also work to make our events engaging by incorporating fun activities in our agenda that centered around music, art, or even sports to leave students feeling empowered and inspired. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

6. Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting? If yes, what was the meeting date and what was the outcome of the item(s) you were interested in?* No I have not but I have been to many city of dublin events and I am excited to start attending. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

8. A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Upload Letter of Recommendation (required).*
Atharv Sharma Recommendation.pdf
Upload 2nd Letter of Recommendation (optional)
Choose File No file selected
Application materials must be submitted via this online application form. The application deadline is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 24, 2023. Applications or letters of recommendation will not be accepted after the deadline. 1292
Troop , Pleasanton, California
March 22, 2023
To Whom It May Concern:

It is my pleasure to provide this recommendation for Atharv Sharma. I am the former Scoutmaster and a current Assistant Scoutmaster for Troop of Pleasanton, of which Atharv is an active participant. I’d like to share my observations of the values that best exemplify Atharv’s interests and character, and how these are applicable to the role of Youth Advisory Committee Member for the city of Dublin. The application states that the committee is looking for enthusiastic students that are interested in representing the young people of Dublin, learning how local government works and planning events that benefit the community.

The Scouting program has specific objectives that are referred to as the “Aims of Scouting.” They are character development, leadership development, citizenship training, and personal fitness. Atharv is now a Life Scout (one rank below Eagle) and has been committed to the program for the last four years with our troop and another two years with a Dublin Pack. During that time, he has taken part in many activities that lead him to understand and embrace those Aims. He has First Aid skills, knows how to respond in an emergency situation, and has an appreciation of what it means to be a citizen within the context of his community, nation and the world. He has been involved in many great outdoor activities and understands how to make fitness fun. He has served in several leadership roles already, including as a Den Chief to help younger Scouts at the Pack level, as an Instructor to create and guide learning of Scout skills with the troop, and as an assistant Patrol Leader to plan and lead his peers.

Atharv understands the value of giving back to his community. In Scouting language, we call this the habit of “Doing a Good Turn Daily.” He has participated in many hours of service in our community through a number of projects in which the troop supports such as Scouting for Food (one of the nation’s largest single day food drives) and many conservation projects. Whether clearing invasive species of plants from a watershed or removing garbage from local creeks, he has constructively used his time to improve the environment and maintain the beauty of our surroundings.

In conclusion, Atharv exemplifies those values that make Scouting a force for good in our culture. The values and capabilities that he has already demonstrated lead me to conclude that he will be a highly effective, principled leader in all his pursuits. I strongly recommend Atharv for inclusion in the Dublin Youth Advisory Committee.

Sincerely,
James R. McMillin
Assistant Scoutmaster
Troop , Pleasanton, CA
1293

Application Submittal
Your completed application must be submitted via this online form. Application submittals must include the following items:

Questions
Please direct questions to Liz Eilliott, Recreation Supervisor, at 925-833-6645 or email First Name*
Yashas
Last Name*
Shashidhara
Street Address*
Print
Youth Advisory Committee Application 2023-2024 term - Submission #5811 Date Submitted: 3/24/2023
1294
City*
Dublin
State*
CA
Zip*
94568
Email Address*
Phone Number*
What school will you attend in the 2023-2024 school year?* Dublin High School
What grade will you be in during the 2023-2024 school year?* 11 1. Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* I want to be part of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee because I want to give back to this community that supported my family and I, these past few years. I believe that people need to step up and support each other and the community, and I want to be one of these people. I want to help make our city better by helping the people of this city. I hope to be able to take my work and use it to make a meaningful contribution to our city. To do this, I can contribute with my past experiences, strong work ethic, and unique problem-solving skills. In the past, I have helped organize Fundraisers and lead community projects in Leadership organizations. These experiences helped me attain valuable skills that I can apply to my work in the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee. The strong work ethic, and problem-solving skills I picked up from numerous events are very useful in my daily life. Whether I'm doing schoolwork or planning an event with my friends, my well-rounded skills always help me.I believe that my passion for making a positive impact, my experience working with teams to achieve shared goals, and my dedication to academic pursuits make me an excellent candidate for the youth advisory committee. I am excited about the opportunity to serve my community in this capacity and would be honored to be considered for this position. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

2. What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* My strongest skill is my leadership. As the Dublin Mayorâ€™s Council Environmental Advocacy Division Lead - I was able to manage a team of 5 students to plan a city-wide agriculture olympiad + code a website for the online exam and run a city-wide battery drive that collected, packed, and recycled 1000 pounds of batteries. As a nationally ranked public speaker my speaking skills would be useful in discussions to make sure everyone's voice is heard I am also creative and a crafty thinker. Due to my environmental advocacy work, I was even awarded the Dublin Young Citizen of the year award. As our school underwater robotics captain, I was able to be creative when leading a team without a coach and new components. I had to get our team to use scrap parts from other devices and crowdfund money to buy more parts. As a high school team going up against college teams, I was still able to persevere in the face of great obstacles. I believe my persistence would be helpful at YAC. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)
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3. What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC could address these issues?*
I have noticed this with teens due to their careless behavior that can be harmful to the environment but can also be applicable to everyone. Based on the Drought that California faced in these past few years, I would like for YAC to implement a project to reduce water usage in our city focused on teenagers. I would do this by spreading awareness about this predicament to our community. This could be done through partnering with water utility organizations to educate children in schools as well as adults in their workspaces about conserving water. Through spreading the word or conducting assemblies we could explain different methods to reduce water usage in our daily lives. A feasible plan to promote saving water is to have designated water saving days where the whole city would plan to reduce water usage for that say by a certain amount(Ex: 30% less water than usual) . Through this, saving water would become a habit for most families and gradually become part of everyone's daily lives.

Other alternative methods also include replacing grass areas with synthetic grass to conserve water. With the whole city working together to combat drought there is no doubt that our city will improve and hopefully inspire other cities to do the same. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

4. What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2023-2024 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities?* I am on the Dublinâ€™s Mayors council where I lead 6 students as the Project manager for the Environmental Advocacy Division. In school I am involved in a few clubs such as the national honors society and the California Scholarship Federation. I am willing to devote as much time as needed to YAC meetings as my time will go towards helping my city. (This boxcan be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

5. How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* In the past I have run projects in the Dublinâ€™s Mayors council that I also tied in with school clubs. I was able to partner with many clubs(DHS Envirotech, CSF, Save the Bay, Breaking Bearriers) in and outside of school to also promote an activity. By giving volunteer hours and rewards for meeting certain goals the participation of teens in the recycling drive skyrocketed. Using networking skills I would be able to get the word out to many clubs in school, which would be a primary source of news for teens to participate in events/activities sponsored by the city. Here are some other strategies I would use. Use social media:

Social media is a great tool for reaching out to other teens and promoting community events. I would create social media pages dedicated to promoting community events and City-sponsored activities, using eye-catching graphics. Creating student networks: One of the best ways to get other teens involved is through peer-to-peer networking. By organizing meetings and events that bring together young people who share similar interests it would be easier to get students to collaborate. By creating a sense of community and shared purpose, we can motivate others to get involved and make a difference. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

6. Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting? If yes, what was the meeting date and what was the outcome of the item(s) you were interested in?* No
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

8. A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Upload Letter of Recommendation (required).*
YaSh LoR 2023.pdf
Upload 2nd Letter of Recommendation (optional)
Choose File No file selected
1296
Application materials must be submitted via this online application form. The application deadline is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 24, 2023. Applications or letters of recommendation will not be accepted after the deadline. 1297

DUBLIN HIGH SCHOOL
Jan 16, 2023
To Whom it May Concern:

I met Yashas Shashidhara in November of 2021 during his Junior year. Yashas is a student in my Honors American Literature class. I have gotten to know Yashas as a hardworking, intelligent scholar-leader. In class, Yashas is a great student to have in class because of his contributions and willingness to engage with even our most complex texts.

Yashas is currently in good standing in all of his courses at Dublin High School. In my class, he has demonstrated strong leadership qualities. He does this by setting a stellar example to his peers while simultaneously supporting his peers in various ways. This year, during a Socratic Seminar a classmate was stumbling and nervous and Yashas discreetly offered some quiet support. Because of this quiet support this student was able to collect themselves and participate fully. Additionally, I have witnessed Yashas motivating and supporting his peers in class when they are faced with a challenge.

Additionally, Yashas is a precise and keen reader and writer who shares his complex and interesting ideas in class. He does not need a lot of guidance in accessing challenging texts – he already possesses strong reading and writing skills. He continues to build on his skills each day and works tirelessly in class.

Throughout high school, Yashas has challenged himself in many advanced-level courses in addition to dedicating time to a variety of extracurricular activities. He has varied experience with extracurricular activities and they all have a community service aspect to them. He has been involved with service projects from middle school to high school and even worked with the city of Dublin on a battery drive.

Please give your strongest consideration to this most worthy candidate. He is a hardworking, outgoing, and ideal candidate for this opportunity. Yashas will prove to be a powerful contributor to this program.

Sincerely,
Constance C. T. Peinado
1298

Application Submittal
Your completed application must be submitted via this online form. Application submittals must include the following items:

Questions
Please direct questions to Liz Eilliott, Recreation Supervisor, at 925-833-6645 or email First Name*
Iris
Last Name*
Shen
Street Address*
Print
Youth Advisory Committee Application 2023-2024 term - Submission #5852 Date Submitted: 3/24/2023
1299
City*
Dublin
State*
California
Zip*
94568
Email Address*
Phone Number*
What school will you attend in the 2023-2024 school year?* Dublin High School
What grade will you be in during the 2023-2024 school year?* Junior

1. Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* The primary reason for my desire to serve on the City of Dublinâ€™s Youth Advisory Committee stems from my personal involvement and struggle with many of the issues that the Youth Advisory Committee tackles. I believe the YAC hosted a mental health forum earlier during this term, and I am, for one, especially grateful to see fellow teens becoming involved with struggles regarding mental health. I want to be able to contribute to such forums and extend existing help regarding mental health for teens, especially students, as someone who has battled academic burnout in previous years. I am also eager to get more teens involved in events around Dublin. I am a member of Dublin Highâ€™s orchestra, and am excited to get more people involved in the Youth Benefit Concert, among other events and programs. Iâ€™m also currently a member of Dublinâ€™s Mayorâ€™s Council, and have been working with other teens on various projects around the city; I truly enjoyed serving the city and am hoping to extend that to the Youth Advisory Committee. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

2. What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* I possess both the background and disposition that I believe will make strong, original contributions to the YAC. I am deeply involved in many of the activities that teens often pursue, such as art (both visual and performing) and STEM-based topics. As someone who has previously volunteered and worked under the City of Dublin as an artist and student, I can utilize the skills and knowledge I acquired to provide unique perspectives on issues, events, and topics about youth involvement and Dublin in general. Over the years, my involvement in the arts has allowed me to become a more creative person overall and influenced my approach to many subjects in that my ideas are often new and valuable to any conversation that I come to. Moreover, I am also a strong communicator and utilize my creativity in problem-solving and suggestion; during group projects and the like, Iâ €™m not afraid to take a leading role or put ideas out into the open if the need arises. Iâ€™m completely open to any suggestions but wonâ€™t hesitate to put my foot down if I feel strongly about a subject. I am a firm believer that open discussion and disagreement are incredibly important in any team setting, and thus I will dedicate myself to transparent and thoughtful exchanges without dominating a conversation. I have experience serving the City of Dublin! As a member of the cityâ €™s Mayorâ€™s Council and someone who has worked as an artist under the Parks and Community Services for various projects, I already have well-established background knowledge of how Dublinâ€™s committees and city government operates.

Thus, I believe that I have not only the soft skills needed to be a successful member of the YAC, but also a well-rounded background of service in the city of Dublin.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)
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3. What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC could address these issues?*
During my time at Dublin High School and even while in middle school, I noticed and even struggled myself with the idea of competition in schools. The competitive nature of school nowadays, especially for teens going into extremely competitive fields, has led to an over-competitive atmosphere and a truckload of stress for many students, including myself. I like that Dublin High has established a Wellness Center, and I think it could be possible to establish something similar for middle schools as well; this would likely not manifest as an entirely separate building, but it would be helpful to provide mental health resources to middle schoolers in the form of anonymous help or a more frequent mental health forum that allows students to voice their opinions on the matter. Iâ€™m also growing increasingly aware of the connectivity issues we are currently experiencing, and Iâ €™m not just talking about the school Wi-Fi (although that is also something I and many others would also like to see improved, and I would be happy to help organize fundraisers to help with that). With digital media more popular than ever, I feel that students have become very connected online, which I think is fantastic on its ownâ€”but that has resulted in a lot of â €˜groupsâ€™ of students becoming rather disconnected. I do not think there is a one-size-fits-all solution for an issue like this, which I believe many may not view as an issue at all, but I would like to see more group-oriented events. Finally, although it is unfortunate to say, I feel that some teens in Dublin have been dealing with vaping, nicotine addiction, and alcohol use. While they do not represent the majority of teens, there is still a substantial amount of teen substance users to the point that I hear news about it in hallways during school, and can sometimes smell vapor in school bathrooms. The YAC will likely be unable to directly host interventions, but I would like to see some action being taken. However, I find that while prevention methods in education have prevented nicotine use to some extent, it obviously doesnâ€™t deter students who may not care as much about the health risks. I believe it would be beneficial to host a forum where teens are talking to teens, not necessarily in a â €˜this is bad, you shouldnâ€™t do thatâ€™ way, but as a conversation where both sides can express opinions and discuss quitting nicotine or preventing teens from using substances in the first place. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

4. What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2023-2024 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities?* Right now, I serve under the Mayor's Council and am hoping to return for a second term. I'm also a member of Dublin High's Science Olympiad Team and am currently the club's Public Relations Officer. Volunteering, both in an out of Dublin, is also something I have been involved in for the past few years. I'm also starting and completing art projects and classes, as well as playing piano recreationally, but none of these extracurriculars should have any time conflicts with the Commission's meetings every month. I have no doubt that I will be able to regularly attend the meetings and will be able to dedicate the time needed every month.
(This boxcan be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

5. How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* I, for one, am very big on social media advertising, as well as design and effective campaigning. As an artist with experience as a Public Relations Officer, I understand how important it is to get your name and events out into the world before anything else.

Currently, I believe that Dublin has been doing relatively well with advertising their events--however, I find that I hear a lot of the news from other students rather than the city itself. In fact, I wouldn't have known about the opportunities the city extends to artists had my art teacher not informed me about it personally. Because of this, I want to use my skills in both graphic design and art to expand the City's social media presence and present events in a way that is easily digestible and exciting. In doing this, I also want to build a stronger community in Dublin's teens, rather than having most of them be grouped off on their own (I am a huge fan of what many students have been doing with Dubversity, and I would like to help extend those ideas to even more teens in Dublin). Involvement needs interest! What I would suggest is to distribute information throughout schools for events and activities that everyone can participate in--not just in emails, since students can get tens to hundreds of emails every day--but perhaps in a regularly distributed newsletter to both high school and middle school students similar to the Dublin Shield. I believe that would help a lot just to mention events often and get knowledge out there. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

6. Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting? If yes, what was the meeting date and what was the outcome of the item(s) you were interested in?* I haven't attended a meeting recently, though I have been keeping up with some of the events online; I was particularly interested in the Youth Benefit Concert, which was mentioned at the March 22 meeting, as an orchestra member, and am glad to hear that things are currently running smoothly.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)
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8. A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Upload Letter of Recommendation (required).*
hrecommendation.pdf
Upload 2nd Letter of Recommendation (optional)
sgrecommendation.pdf
Application materials must be submitted via this online application form. The application deadline is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 24, 2023. Applications or letters of recommendation will not be accepted after the deadline. 1302

DUBLIN HIGH SCHOOL
8151 VILLAGE PARKWAY, DUBLIN, CA 94568 - 925.833.3300 - FAX 925.833.3344 DHS.DUBLINUSD.ORG
March 16, 2023
To Whom It May Concern:

It is with great pleasure and confidence that I recommend Iris Shen. What I admire most about Iris is her quiet confidence. In a class with a great deal of booming personalities, Iris stands out with her thoughtful analysis and ability to inform without raising her voice. Iris is what we want our leaders to be. She is intelligent, focused, and compassionate.

Iris has the social skills and discipline necessary to work well with other students in collaborative groups. On many occasions I noticed that her help was welcomed by other less sure students in these settings. She works effectively in groups, taking leadership roles, always insisting on sharing and completing thoughtful work- skills and abilities that will serve her well in future academic and workplace settings.

Iris is not only self driven in her academics, she is also a talented writer. With her combination of intellectual skills, motivation and social maturity, she will flourish as a leader.

I giv tMole earted r~commendation.
a Hollison
Sophomore Advanced English Teacher
Teacher Librarian
Dublin High School
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Application Submittal
Your completed application must be submitted via this online form. Application submittals must include the following items:

Questions
Please direct questions to Liz Eilliott, Recreation Supervisor, at 925-833-6645 or email First Name*
Arjun
Last Name*
Shenoy
Street Address*
Print
Youth Advisory Committee Application 2023-2024 term - Submission #5689 Date Submitted: 3/17/2023
1305
City*
dublin
State*
California
Zip*
94568
Email Address*
Phone Number*
What school will you attend in the 2023-2024 school year?* Fallon Middle School
What grade will you be in during the 2023-2024 school year?* 6th

1. Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* I want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee because it will give me an opportunity to get involved with the community. This role will help me learn to work with others as a team, and meet new people. It will also help me to build leadership qualities.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

2. What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* I am an energetic and enthusiastic person. I enjoy reading, and I have a strong ability to grasp knowledge, which has also helped me excel in academics. My strengths are my positive attitude, clarity of thought, and inquisitiveness which have helped me in being an active participant in discussions.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

3. What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC could address these issues?*
In my opinion, a lot of teenagers donâ€™t have enough opportunities to meet people in real life. Instead, they resort to online gatherings. Online gatherings arenâ€™t as beneficial as real life gatherings for a few reasons. Meeting people in real life can help build trust, and there arenâ€™t any issues with not being able to hear someone, unlike online gatherings. One way YAC could address these issues would be to give speeches and presentations at school about meeting friends in real life more often, and all the benefits students can reap from it.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

4. What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2023-2024 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities?* I will be completing Cub Scouts by the end of my elementary school year, and I am planning to join a Boy Scout troop. I have been playing piano for the last six years, and plan to continue. I also play chess and tennis. With these activities, I have ample time on hand. I am certain that I will be able to devote time for YAC meetings and activities, and am looking forward to it. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)
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5. How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* I shall talk about YAC and its activities at my school, the clubs that I am a part of, and social gatherings. I will try to give presentations, and help spread the word, so more teenagers will know about it and be keen to participate. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

6. Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting? If yes, what was the meeting date and what was the outcome of the item(s) you were interested in?* Yes, I had the opportunity to attend a City Council meeting a few months ago. It was on October 18th, 2022, when the City of Dublin proclaimed the month of October as Hindu American Awareness Appreciation month. I felt proud as a person of Indian origin and as a citizen of Dublin.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

8. A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Upload Letter of Recommendation (required).*
Arjun Rec Letter.pdf
Upload 2nd Letter of Recommendation (optional)
arjun rec letter (1).pdf
Application materials must be submitted via this online application form. The application deadline is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 24, 2023. Applications or letters of recommendation will not be accepted after the deadline. 1307
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Application Submittal
Your completed application must be submitted via this online form. Application submittals must include the following items:

Questions
Please direct questions to Liz Eilliott, Recreation Supervisor, at 925-833-6645 or email First Name*
Hasini
Last Name*
Shivakumar
Street Address*
Print
Youth Advisory Committee Application 2023-2024 term - Submission #5835 Date Submitted: 3/24/2023
1310
City*
Dublin
State*
CA
Zip*
94568
Email Address*
Phone Number*
What school will you attend in the 2023-2024 school year?* Dublin High School
What grade will you be in during the 2023-2024 school year?* 10th

1. Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* I want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee because I want to provide meaningful input into decisions made that impact me and my peers. I believe that it is extremely important that young people are informed and involved in matters and issues that affect themselves and their demographic. I want to use my voice to advocate for teens in Dublin by addressing issues that affect us and by providing my opinion of the way that these problems are solved. I also love volunteering and giving back to the community. I would love to participate in city events and help implement and promote activities for Dublin youth. Another reason I would like to become a member of the YAC is because I want to experience being in local government. I am fascinated by the way governments work and would love to gain the experience of working in one. By representing Dublin youth and speaking on important issues and decisions, I think I can make a difference and help implement solutions to issues teens are facing. I want to bring attention to the problems that Dublin teens are struggling with and help solve them. I want to work towards bettering the community in Dublin and I believe that I can accomplish that through the YAC. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

2. What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* One of the skills that I possess that would make me a strong candidate for YAC is my ability to communicate with others in a thorough and productive manner. I can clearly articulate my ideas and voice my opinions in a constructive way. I also am able to keep an open mind and inform myself on viewpoints that I may not have previously considered. Another skill that I have that would make me a qualified candidate for YAC is my determination and ability to uphold commitments. I would characterize myself as a hard working individual and as someone who is dedicated to the things that are important to me. I have been involved in Kuk Sool Won, a local Korean style of martial arts for 9 years and have shown determination and perseverance through the numerous competitions, testing, and events I have attended. I would also say that I can work very well with people and collaborate with others strongly. I am a person that fares well in group settings and can express myself effectively to other people. Another quality that I possess that would make me a good candidate for YAC is my ability to take on leadership roles and plan, organize, and execute events. Having been a Girl Scout for over 10 years, I have helped plan several important meetings and events and have taken on leadership roles within some of these events and meetings. Because of my prior experience, I am confident in my ability to help out and volunteer at city sponsored events and in promoting and implementing activities and services for Dublin youth. Another skill that I possess that would make me a valuable candidate for YAC is my ability to promote and market events and activities. When I was involved in my middle school's theater department, I was tasked with helping advertise our productions. I worked to create posters, flyers and make announcements promoting the events. I can do the same with city events and activities for teens. I would also portray myself as a person who enjoys volunteering and giving back to the community. From 2018-2021, I was part of a volunteer group with my temple that would organize volunteer events for the local community. We regularly packed lunches for a homeless shelter in Modesto and planted trees in local parks throughout the Tri-Valley. I loved the feeling of knowing something I had done was actually benefiting the community and people in it. With all these skills put together, I am positive that I am a well rounded, determined, and qualified individual who possesses traits and skills that would make an exceptional YAC candidate. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)
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3. What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC could address these issues?*
One issue that Dublin teens are dealing with that really bothers me is the physical education system in middle and high schools. In many physical education classes, every student is expected to have the same athletic ability and are all expected to perform at the same level. Students are also graded based on unrealistic athletic performance standards. This is extremely unfair because not every student has the same physical capabilities. Instead of being graded on participation, effort, and improvement, students are being graded on whether they can complete a 50 pacers or run a mile in under 10 minutes. To some, these standards may seem low and achievable, but they are disadvantageous to students who, no matter how hard they push themselves, cannot physically meet them. This grading system often puts students who are unable to keep up with these harsh standards at risk of failing the class, not because they haven't put effort into the class or improved in it, but because their physical abilities are deemed not enough to pass. The YAC could address this issue by suggesting changes to grading policies for physical education classes to the school board and education department. Instead of being graded based on one standard that applies to everyone, students should be graded on their individual participation, how much effort they have put into the class, and whether they have improved over the course of the year in the class. Mental health is an issue that impacts teens across the country and Dublin is no exception. Within the last decade, suicide and depression rates within teens have risen substantially. While Dublin schools provide students with easy access to quality mental health services, the problem will not get better until the stigma around mental health is dissolved . Within the teen community, mental health is rarely discussed and many people associate it with shame and disgrace. Because of this, many students are often ashamed and scared of reaching out. One thing that YAC can do to improve the situation is raise awareness about mental health. By posting about it on social media or giving presentations about it in schools, we can make students struggling with it feel less alone and enable them to reach out. Another issue that teenagers in Dublin have to deal with is the use of hate speech and derogatory language while at school. School is supposed to be a safe learning environment where all students are empowered. The use of hate speech and derogatory language makes the learning environment feel an uncomfortable and unsafe space for students affected by it. Although Dublin schools have a no tolerance policy towards the use of this harmful and hateful language, it is rarely ever implemented. Teachers and staff members often overlook the use of slurs, hate speech, and other derogatory language that perpetuates harmful stereotypes, passing it off as a joke, or a student just messing around. I have witnessed these words being used and the effect it has on the people that they are said to. The learning environment is completely disrupted and students no longer feel safe or comfortable. Using this kind of language should never be tolerated or labeled as a joke, as these words have real weight that is heavily felt by other students. The YAC can work towards making sure consequences for the use of hate speech are actually administered by suggesting to the school board ways on how to educate teachers on what is considered as hate speech and what they should actually do if they hear students using it as well as encouraging students to report such incidents. School should be an inclusive space for everyone and there is no room for hate speech in an accepting and safe environment.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

4. What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2023-2024 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities?* The activities that I am involved in and will be involved in during the 2023-2024 school year are Girl Scouts, martial arts, and piano lessons. These activities are all scheduled during the week and do take up a considerable amount of my time. However, I will be able to schedule them in a way to accommodate YAC meetings and activities. My weekends are usually free and I will be able to make time on weekends for activities and events for YAC. I know that meetings are every fourth Wednesday of the month at 7pm and I will be able to attend each of these meetings. During the week I can also accommodate time to events and activities if need be. I can definitely devote time each month to the YAC and be an involved member of the community through it.
(This boxcan be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

5. How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* One way that I would get teens involved in the community and City-sponsored activities and events is by advertising it on social media platforms that appeal to teenagers. By using social media to promote such events and activities, the amount of teens that the information reaches grows. 2 of the social media platforms that are most used by teens are Instagram and TikTok. By using official accounts on both these platforms to post about events and activities going on for teens in Dublin, the city increases the amount of teens that are aware of the events, thus increasing the amount of people interested and willing to participate. Another way to get teenagers interested and involved in community events is to highlight the benefit they get for participating in. Whether it's gaining volunteer hours, learning more about opportunities that interest them, or simply having a good time, teens want to know what they gain from participating in events geared towards them. Another way to get teens involved and aware of events going on is to advertise them through school. Sending information out to teachers and having them tell their students about it or posting flyers around campus are some ways to advertise through school. If these events are pushed to students through their teachers, counselors, and peers, teens are more likely to be aware of it and consider them. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)
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6. Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting? If yes, what was the meeting date and what was the outcome of the item(s) you were interested in?* I have not recently attended a YAC or othe City Council meeting. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

8. A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Upload Letter of Recommendation (required).*
H. Shivakumar Letter of Rec.pdf
Upload 2nd Letter of Recommendation (optional)
Choose File No file selected
Application materials must be submitted via this online application form. The application deadline is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 24, 2023. Applications or letters of recommendation will not be accepted after the deadline. 1313

COTTONWOOD CREEK SCHOOL
DUBLIN UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT Lorianne R. Ventura, Ed.D., Principal To Whom it May Concern,
My name is Mrs. Rebecca Teames and it is my privilege to write this letter recommending Hasini Shivakumar for the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee.

Hasini was a student in both my history and drama classes during the 2021-2022 school year. She consistently demonstrated responsibility in completing her assignments and a commitment to learning in both content areas. I counted on Hasini to be a student who went above and beyond the obvious answer and to demonstrate high motivation and effort. She is a gifted writer and makes insightful contributions to class discussions.

An area where Hasini exceeded was in theater. She grew in skill over two years, first in my Beginning Drama class and then continuing into Advanced Drama. Hasini became a leader on and off stage. She excelled as a director and exemplified teamwork and dedication while working with her fellow performers. As an 8th grader she was cast as the lead in our school’s performance of The Wizard of Oz. As Dorothy, Hasini showed up to all rehearsals and performances prepared and having practiced on her own, and earned the admiration of the whole cast for her talent and character.

Hasini is an extremely well-rounded person. She maintains a close group of friends and radiates positivity. She excels in academics as well as creative endeavors. As her teacher, director, and chaperone for the 8th grade trip to DC and NYC, I experienced her humor, optimism, and curiosity about the world around her. She is a student who adapts to and excels in every situation.

I highly recommend Hasini as a member of the Youth Advisory Council. Her perspective and abilities are assets to any group and Dublin would benefit greatly from her participation. Please let me know if I can provide any additional insight.

Sincerely,
Mrs. Rebecca Teames
8th Grade US History Teacher
Humanities Lead
Drama Director
Cottonwood Creek School
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Application Submittal
Your completed application must be submitted via this online form. Application submittals must include the following items:

Questions
Please direct questions to Liz Eilliott, Recreation Supervisor, at 925-833-6645 or email First Name*
Riya
Last Name*
Singh
Street Address*
Print
Youth Advisory Committee Application 2023-2024 term - Submission #5794 Date Submitted: 3/24/2023
1315
City*
Dublin
State*
CA
Zip*
94568
Email Address*
Phone Number*
What school will you attend in the 2023-2024 school year?* Dublin High School
What grade will you be in during the 2023-2024 school year?* 9th grade

1. Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* As a young teen who has been living in Dublin since age 3, I am passionate about making a positive impact in my community by sharing different ideas, and advocating and bringing forward issues that are important to youth. I believe I am a very creative person and I would be delighted to join the YAC where I can put my creativity and leadership skills to use, all for a good cause.

Being a part of the youth advisory committee will give me a chance to expand my skills and knowledge. In addition, I am also excited to learn about the local government and how decisions are made that affect the community. This opportunity would help me to become a better citizen. Thank you so much for considering my application. I am excited to work with other young individuals who are passionate about making a difference in this community. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

2. What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* Critical Thinking & Collaboration - I believe I possess strong critical thinking skills and have a creative and innovative mindset. I am a good team player and I work well with my peers in class. I am respectful of others' opinions and ideas and can work well under pressure. Creativity - I love to write, sketch, paint and sing. Every summer, I participate in theater workshops and perform in musicals onstage in Danville. I also perform at family events and functions. Passion for Community Service - I am passionate about community service and have been involved in volunteering at local temples, preparing care packages for the needy, and helping at community events. As a part of my Fashion Designing course (which I am doing outside of school), I am also involved in the "Dress a Girl Around the World" campaign for which I sow dresses for little girls in need. Leadership Roles - During my elementary school years, I was on the student council as a class representative, where I would attend meetings, take notes, and would help out with school events. I was a member of the yearbook committee and was actively involved in the creation of the yearbook. I have been a member of the golf team at Tri Valley Chapter of First Tee and Girls Golf, where I have played in several local tournaments and in 7th grade I was selected as a Girls Golf eLeader. Communication Skills - I believe I possess strong communication skills - both written and verbal. I have always been acknowledged by my teachers for my writing and presentation skills.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)
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3. What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC could address these issues?*
Being a teenager myself, I know that we usually have a lot going on in our minds. Many teenagers today struggle with being able to maintain a good mental health. Some of the most common issues that teenagers deal with are depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, struggle of self-acceptance, cultural/identity struggles, body-image issues. Many teenagers also face the problems of bullying and donâ€™t feel safe in their school environment. The YAC could possibly address the issues in some of the following ways: The YAC could work with the Dublin schools & community to promote kindness as well as create programs/events that address harassment and bullying. The YAC could work with health organizations & Dublin schools to promote awareness on mental health issues, such as anxiety, depression, and lack of self-esteem. The YAC could also work on providing better access to resources for counseling and therapy. The YAC could work with local cultural & ethnic groups to give students knowledge on different cultures. The YAC could invite professionals from different fields to come share and talk to the youth of Dublin about their different experiences. The YAC could collaborate with experts/professionals to come present/educate Dublin parents about the pressures and issues that the youth are facing today. For youth who have parents that grew up in other countries, beliefs between parents and youth may differ, and providing parents with awareness on the importance of mental health.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

4. What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2023-2024 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities?* I am currently involved in focusing on getting good grades, working on my fashion designing, sewing & art projects, and volunteering. I will most probably continue this next year as well. I will use my time management skills and will definitely be able to make and devote time each month for the YAC meetings and activities. (This boxcan be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

5. How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* Social Media, Word of Mouth, & Newsletter - Since most teens are spending a lot of time on social media platforms like Instagram and Tiktok - I would use these platforms to promote community events and activities, share flyers, photos, & videos of events, and encourage teens and young people to attend. I would also encourage my friends to attend events and ask them to share with other teens that they may know. In addition, I would create a monthly newsletter highlighting all the past and upcoming events and activities which could be sent out to all the teens/youth through their schools. Collaboration with the Schools - Schools are the best way to reach out to teens. I would reach out and work with the school (middle & high) administrators, teachers, PFC, student councils to promote the events and activities to the students. I would encourage the YAC to visit the local schools to present, talk and discuss about the different events/activities and encourage teens to attend.

Partner with local businesses - I would contact local businesses in Dublin to see if they would be interested in getting involved to support local events & activities and provide any possible incentives which could encourage teens to attend/get involved. Fun & Engaging Events - Last but not the least, I could possibly try to arrange fun and engaging activities that teens find appealing at events. This would be an enjoyable experience and would encourage them to get involved. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

6. Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting? If yes, what was the meeting date and what was the outcome of the item(s) you were interested in?* Unfortunately, I have not had the chance to attend any meeting recently. However, I am looking forward to attending them in the future.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

8. A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Upload Letter of Recommendation (required).*
Riya Singh.pdf
1317
Upload 2nd Letter of Recommendation (optional)
Choose File No file selected
Application materials must be submitted via this online application form. The application deadline is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 24, 2023. Applications or letters of recommendation will not be accepted after the deadline. 1318
Eleanor Murray Fallon
Middle School
March 22, 2023
Dear Selections Committee,
It is beyond my great pleasure to recommend Riya Singh to take part in the Youth Advisory Committee for the City of Dublin. She is one of the most exemplary and devoted students that I have encountered in my teaching career.

I have gotten to know Riya this year during her time as a student in my English class at Fallon Middle School.

During that time, I have watched Riya grow into an outstanding, dedicated, and mature individual who excels in all of her academic and personal pursuits.

As Riya’s teacher, I have witnessed her extraordinary organizational, analytical, and critical thinking skills firsthand.

In and out of the classroom, Riya is helpful, organized, respectful, dedicated, and has a positive attitude towards everything she does. Riya’s final project for our Genius Hour unit was particularly impressive. For it, she researched and created an in-depth presentation on water conservation. I was truly impressed and moved by Riya’s project. As part of her presentation, Riya built a working model of a simple device to aid in conserving water. The tenacity, enthusiasm, and overall passion that Riya put into her project and presentation highlights not only what an amazing, driven, and model student she is, it also shows how much she cares and is an active problem solver. The analysis, connections, and overall relatability of Riya’s presentation was truly exceptional, and an interesting and eye-opening perspective on conservation and its importance. She is an absolute joy to have in my class, and is the kind of student who makes me wake up everyday excited and grateful to be a teacher.

Riya’s academic accomplishments are rivaled only by her personal strengths. Her tireless work ethic and tenacity are beyond her years. As highlighted by her work with the various and impressive community service work she involves herself in. Through her work with the “Dress a Girl Around the World" campaign, Riya personally sews dresses for needy young girls the world over. Through Riya’s work with Dress a Girl , she has been instrumental in providing much needed clothing to young girls who need it. Riya is a role model and a leader, showing through her words and her actions that everyone has a voice and is important. She is well-loved and respected by her peers, as well as all those who have had the pleasure of teaching her. Throughout this school year, I have seen her thrive as both a student and person.

Riya would be an outstanding and welcomed addition to the Youth Advisory Committee. She is an amazing young lady, who will definitely make a very positive impact on the world. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions regarding her character or academic work.

Sincerely,
Matthew Wakerling
English/PLTW Apps Creator
Fallon Middle School
3601 Kohnen Way Dublin, CA. 94568 925-875-9376 FAX 925-829-7261 1319

Application Submittal
Your completed application must be submitted via this online form. Application submittals must include the following items:

Questions
Please direct questions to Liz Eilliott, Recreation Supervisor, at 925-833-6645 or email First Name*
Jayden
Last Name*
Solis
Street Address*
Print
Youth Advisory Committee Application 2023-2024 term - Submission #5726 Date Submitted: 3/21/2023
1320
City*
Dublin
State*
CA
Zip*
94568
Email Address*
Phone Number*
What school will you attend in the 2023-2024 school year?* Dublin High School
What grade will you be in during the 2023-2024 school year?* Eleventh Grade (Junior)

1. Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* I want to become a Youth Advisory Committee member because this opportunity will allow me to become a proactive member of the Dublin community who can leave a positive impact on others. Being a member of the YAC will grant me the ability to help others by making important decisions on the behalf of my peers, and the platform to organize beneficial events for my community. I enjoy involving myself in community affairs, and enjoy participating in opportunities to help out others. Iâ€™ve had an amazing experience doing something similar to YAC as a class officer at Dublin High, and am deeply interested in serving a broader audience with Dublin. I believe this special opportunity will allow me to grow as a person and attain valuable experience, but at the same time serve others more importantly. In addition, I am interested in becoming a member so that I can incorporate the voices of my peers into our meetings and collectively work alongside my peers to make a difference in our Dublin community.
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2. What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* I have various experiences that have taught me various skills that would validate me being a strong candidate for the YAC. To begin, I have been the Class of 2025 Secretary since my freshman year. Iâ€™ve learned how to think on the behalf of a larger community, listen well, include otherâ€™s thoughts and opinions, and communicate efficiently. A routine duty of mine was making decisions on the behalf of the entire Class of 2025, which is something Iâ€™ll do with the YAC. I have also learned how to organize community events and activities in-office with the other officers, as well as with my Leadership Class. Being Secretary has given me experience on collaborating with other peers and adults in formal meetings as well as Teacher Representatives and the Dublin Parent Faculty Organization. In addition, I have raised money as the Treasurer for Dublin MÃ©decins Sans FrontiÃ¨res, an official branch of the Stanford organization that provides medical assistance to people affected by disasters and disease outbreaks. Being an officer for this club has given me an opportunity to help out strangers and insight on working diligently outside the box. At the time of this application, I have also just become an employee for the City of Dublin working as a Recreational Aide. This job will allow me in the future to work the recreational activities and city events the city of Dublin will host, and even provide input on them to bring back to the YAC to provide better services for the future.
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3. What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC could address these issues?*
In general, the YAC could address and solve many issues in this community with campaigns involving interactive activities, valuable resources, and influential guest speakers. For starters, Iâ€™ve definitely heard and seen many of my peers struggle with some sort of mental health issue. Students are experiencing stress from their academics, anxiety rooted from so many external factors, and just feeling sad or depressed in general. Knowing this, I want to coordinate with YAC bringing guest speakers, seminars, resources, events with therapists, and other ways to fix the problems related to mental health. In addition, I believe bullying is still a huge issue both in the middle schools and at DHS. I believe that YAC has the capacity to host campaigns to educate teens on how to prevent and address situations of bullying, as well as the negative consequences it can have on victims. The least I could do is intervene and educate someone during situations of bullying I encounter, but it wonâ€™t stop everything. I would also want the YAC to offer activities or resources that would be beneficial for a general teen population.

Showing others how to manage balancing their schoolwork and extracurricular activities, along with not falling victim to peer or parental pressure would be very valuable towards Dublin teens. I have seen my friends go to school with cuts on their wrists and emotionally breakdown in front of me from how hard life can get, and I donâ€™t want any more teens experiencing this.

Lastly, I would want the YAC to organize community events that put an emphasis on addressing racism in our community. The YAC could organize efforts to educate about other cultures and take down biased attitudes fueled by racism. I have been a victim of casual racism myself during school, and have heard others experience it, but YAC in my opinion has the ability to erase this.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

4. What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2023-2024 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities?* I only play Lacrosse from February to April, but can miss practices and games if necessary. So, Iâ€™ll still have a lot of time to dedicate to YAC meetings and activities. Since I work for the City of Dublin, I would be able to adjust my work hours to accomodate the YAC meetings and activities.
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5. How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* There are many ways I would be able to get other teens involved in our City-sponsored activities. For starters, simply using a convincing, interesting promotion using word of mouth will go a long way in getting other teens involved. The people I talk to, will do the same, and the process repeats with other people they talk to. In addition, I would like to use my experience with electronic marketing for the events Dublin puts up. I would take advantage of the social media algorithm by creating appealing electronic flyers on Instagram and Facebook, as well as engaging videos on Tik Tok where all teens are on these days. As far as Iâ€™ve seen, many kids at Dublin High arenâ€™t familiar with whatâ€™s going on in their city. By using these different strategies, I definately believe I would be able to grasp the participation of others for these events. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

6. Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting? If yes, what was the meeting date and what was the outcome of the item(s) you were interested in?* No, I have not. However, I look forward to attending the YAC meeting March 22, or any other Dublin-affiliated meetings in the future.
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8. A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Upload Letter of Recommendation (required).*
JaSo Letter of Rec 2023 (1) (1).pdf
1322
Upload 2nd Letter of Recommendation (optional)
IMG.jpg
Application materials must be submitted via this online application form. The application deadline is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 24, 2023. Applications or letters of recommendation will not be accepted after the deadline. 1323
1324

DUBLIN HIGH SCHOOL
Mar 20, 2023
To Whom it May Concern:

I met Jayden Solis in November of 2022 during his Sophomore year of high school.

Jayden is a student in my English 2 class. I have gotten to know Jayden as a dedicated, outgoing, and positive member of our classroom community. I support Jayden’s application to be part of Dublin’s Youth Advisory Committee and have absolutely no reservations.

Jayden has impressed me with his continuous engagement in all aspects of our classroom community. Jayden is always the first student to start a conversation in both his small group, but also during whole class discussions. He is motivated, prepared, and interested in learning. Jayden also both seeks out and values feedback which is a powerful skill to have as a young person. I know he will bring this open-mindedness and focus to this new role.

Throughout high school, Jayden has challenged himself in many advanced level courses in addition to dedicating time to a variety of extracurricular activities. He is currently a member of DHS’s leadership class as the Class of 2025’s Secretary. Jayden is able to maintain an incredibly strong transcript as well as a consistently upbeat and positive attitude.

Please give your strongest consideration to this most worthy candidate. Jayden is outgoing, dedicated, and a fun person to be around. He will be a powerful contributor to Dublin’s Youth Advisory Committee.

Sincerely,
Constance C. T. Peinado
1325

Application Submittal
Your completed application must be submitted via this online form. Application submittals must include the following items:

Questions
Please direct questions to Liz Eilliott, Recreation Supervisor, at 925-833-6645 or email First Name*
Daria
Last Name*
Spirina
Street Address*
Print
Youth Advisory Committee Application 2023-2024 term - Submission #5784 Date Submitted: 3/23/2023
1326
City*
Dublin
State*
CA
Zip*
94568
Email Address*
Phone Number*
What school will you attend in the 2023-2024 school year?* Dublin High School
What grade will you be in during the 2023-2024 school year?* 11 1. Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* I want to become part of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee since I hope to contribute to the well-being of Dublin students and residents through my input on the committee. Serving on YAC will give me the opportunity to offer ideas and input to the City Council on issues and activities that concern younger people in our community. I want to encourage more students to interact with the YAC and participate in city activities. Specifically, I want to focus on improving young peopleâ€™s mental health and improving Dublinâ€™s environment. For both of these issues, I think that increasing public awareness is an important first step toward making significant progress. I have always wanted to be more involved in decision-making in Dublin and I am interested in helping organize activities and events in the city. I would like to help make a difference in our community and potentially benefit peopleâ€™s lives, both on a personal and city-wide level. On a personal level, I have seen friends and peers struggle with mental health in Dublin. This has opened my eyes to how much influence mental health can have on peopleâ€™s lives. Trying to focus on education, relationships, and other extracurriculars can be difficult for students and youth in Dublin. I want to help youth in Dublin learn methods to improve their mental health. I have noticed changes in Dublinâ€™s environment in recent years, such as more trash and pollution increasing in and around schools. I think that caring for our planet and the environment in our city is important and that we need to make youth more aware of the increasing harm to our environment that stems from physical pollution. I believe that with my input, the YAC will be able to make more of an impact on the community.
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2. What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* I believe that I would be a strong candidate for the YAC because of my strong work ethic, curiosity, and dedication to learning and advocating for changes in our community. I am dedicated to completing work on time and committing to projects. I have several specific issues that I will focus on during my term in the YAC and I will aim to achieve meaningful changes in informing young people about mental health and advocating for awareness about the environment. I will work on developing events and informational flyers/advertisements to help our city. I am willing to stick to my goals and dedicate time and effort to YAC. I am interested in learning more about what issues youth in our community face and I am open to developing new ideas or plans to help people in our community. While I have specific issues in mind that I want to advocate for, I will actively listen to members of our community to see if they have any feedback. I will adjust my plans if I notice any prevalent issues, making sure to first and foremost serve the young people in the community. I understand that it is important to follow through on ideas and plans but I also aim to be flexible and open to new ideas during my time on the committee. As a member of the YAC, I will commit to learning more about my fellow committee members and the youth we aim to help. I will use my teamwork and collaboration skills to communicate with others and understand what we need to get done. In addition, I believe that I am an organized and dependable person who will be capable of helping us keep track of our goals, future plans, and objectives. I will analyze and review the events and plans we have carried out to make future improvements to the operations of the committee. I am a good public speaker, leader, and communicator that will be able to effectively participate in meetings and public events. I also have knowledge that relates to the issues I am to focus on. Through classes I have taken this year that relate to my interests, such as AP Environmental Science and AP Psychology, I have gained the knowledge I need to inform others about important issues.

I also possess some graphic design skills that would allow me to help advertise and inform people about events. In summary, I believe that I have many of the skills that would be required of a member of YAC. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.) 1327

3. What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC could address these issues?*
As I have previously mentioned, I think that two major issues currently facing Dublin youth that I could advocate for on YAC would be mental health and environmental issues. I have noticed that keeping up with schoolwork can put a lot of pressure on young people in our community. Relationships with teachers, friends, and parents can also be difficult to manage for teenagers.

To help improve youth mental health, I would aim to help offer educational resources. This could be achieved through events or through collaborating with our school counseling departments. Mental health-oriented events could be expanded and held more frequently in places such as the library and the senior center. Through student-led events, I believe that we could address the stress a lot of young people in our community are facing. Secondly, I believe that a lot of teens in Dublin are concerned about environmental issues, but are unsure what they can do to alleviate environmental harm in Dublin or across the world. Knowing that we are facing an existential threat to our lives and not knowing what to do about it can be a source of stress for some students. By encouraging youth to raise awareness about environmental issues and giving them more opportunities to volunteer, we are helping create a new generation of motivated students that will be willing to push through laws and policies that may finally make a difference in our world. I plan to encourage youth in Dublin to volunteer by collaborating with local initiatives and involving existing high school and middle school clubs in YAC plans. Throughout my time on the YAC committee, I will listen to youth in the community and do my best to adjust my plans and input on the committee to best reflect their needs.
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4. What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2023-2024 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities?* In the next school year, I will be involved in some high school clubs and activities, but these will not impede my ability to participate in YAC meetings and activities. I currently do not have any activities scheduled on Wednesday afternoons so I will be able to dedicate this time to attending YAC meetings. I will also be able to find the time to attend and potentially organize or advertise YAC-sponsored activities since my schedule is relatively flexible. I have been able to successfully maintain my grades/education and my extracurriculars throughout this year. My participation in Dublin High clubs and activities would enable me to involve more people in YAC-sponsored activities and understand more about how to organize partnerships and represent the problems of people within our community. For example, my participation in the Distributive Education Clubs of America branch at DHS has enabled me to learn more about organizing events and business partnerships. My participation in this club would allow me to get more people involved in YAC activities while not harming my ability to participate in YAC. Other clubs I have participated in, such as the DHS Speech and Debate and DHS Heartscope clubs, have helped me develop skills that would help me in YAC and connect with more people.
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5. How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* To get teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities, I would aim to utilize increased collaborations and joint events with high school and middle school clubs, develop a YAC social media presence, and advertise YAC events through flyers in places frequently visited by young people in our community, such as the library. I think that many more teens would be interested in participating in YAC events if they were encouraged to attend by their friends or club officers.

An effective way to spread the word about upcoming YAC events would be to partner with school clubs that would encourage their members to attend and participate. This would help expand the reach of events we plan. Developing a social media presence would be an effective way to inform thousands of teens in Dublin about upcoming events or opportunities. By effectively utilizing flyers and posts, we can encourage more participation in events and make sure that teens are informed about opportunities that may interest them. I would be willing to help maintain and brainstorm ideas for advertising on official YAC social media accounts on platforms such as Instagram. I think that putting up flyers in places visited by youth would help us connect with young people in the community who may not yet be involved with clubs or may not use social media. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)
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6. Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting? If yes, what was the meeting date and what was the outcome of the item(s) you were interested in?* While I have not attended a Dublin Commission meeting in person, I regularly watch the School Board (Dublin Unified School District Board of Trustees Meetings) live on stream or in recording. I find that it is important to understand the problems that students in our district are facing and know how School Board decisions impact me and others. I have watched recent meetings of the School Board, such as the meeting on February 28th, where updates on the construction of Emerald High School were presented. I have noticed that through School Board meetings, positive changes are often made in school and the community. For example, the meetings on October 25, 2022, included a presentation on improvements being made in Dublin Schools to help students with their mental health. I was happy to learn that mental health support and services are being expanded to include elementary school students and that outside organizations are being involved to help advise effective ways to benefit studentsâ€™ mental health. I found the new approach where all students are offered free mental health services to be beneficial. I also watched the board meeting on â€‹â€‹October 11, 2022, where it was decided that the new buildings at Dublin elementary schools would be exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act on account of their size. I think this was the right decision to make since the projects were not expected to have any major impact on the surrounding environment. I admire the effective decision-makers on the School Board and I hope to also benefit the Dublin community by serving on YAC in the coming year.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

8. A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Upload Letter of Recommendation (required).*
YACRECLetterDariaSpirina2023.pdf
Upload 2nd Letter of Recommendation (optional)
Choose File No file selected
Application materials must be submitted via this online application form. The application deadline is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 24, 2023. Applications or letters of recommendation will not be accepted after the deadline. 1329

DUBLIN HIGH SCHOOL
2017 GOLD RIBBON SCHOOL
8151 Village Parkway, Dublin, CA 94568 925-833-3300 FAX 925-833-3322 March 20, 2023
To Whom t May Concern:

It is a pleasure to write to you on behalf of Daria Spirina, a student in my Sophomore English class during the 2022-2023 school year. Daria is interested in joining Dublin's Youth Advisory Committee and she is an excellent candidate. As a student on YAC, she hopes to develop more community outreach projects that would inform people in Dubin about relevant issues like mental health, Dublin's changing environment, and women's rights. Daria is an excellent student who does her absolute best on every task given to her. She exhibits punctuality, leadership, social awareness and creativity in the classroom both working by herself and working with others.

Daria is responsible and takes the initiative to talk to other students about their opinions. She is mindful of politicel and social issues that arise both on campus and in the world. She is well-read, well-spoken and dedicated. I believe she would be an excellent adition to the Youth Advisory Committee. I highly recommend her.

Sincerely
alit
Patricia McGinley
www.dublinusd.org/dhs
1330

Application Submittal
Your completed application must be submitted via this online form. Application submittals must include the following items:

Questions
Please direct questions to Liz Eilliott, Recreation Supervisor, at 925-833-6645 or email First Name*
Renu
Last Name*
Srivathsa
Street Address*
Print
Youth Advisory Committee Application 2023-2024 term - Submission #5854 Date Submitted: 3/24/2023
1331
City*
Dublin
State*
California
Zip*
945678
Email Address*
Phone Number*
What school will you attend in the 2023-2024 school year?* Dublin High School
What grade will you be in during the 2023-2024 school year?* 10th

1. Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* I view the Dublin Youth Advisory Committee as a strong, mission-driven student organization, and a platform where I think that I, an aspiring and ambitious future leader, can learn to advocate, influence positive change, and be a voice for the youth of Dublin.

I want to become a member of YAC because leadership, responsibility, communication, and collaboration are all strong traits I want to pursue and improve at. I want to be a voice for Dublin youth and the student community, and make lasting & valuable contributions to my city. I want to collaborate with others and work on a team where everyone comes together to pursue a common goal. Iâ€™m very involved in the Dublin community, and Iâ€™m passionate about furthering that involvement, making lasting differences, and providing a voice for my peers and their families. I want to learn about the needs of Dublin youth and help make changes in their best interests. Being a high school student, I want to step up and start taking active roles to participate in the community and showcase & strengthen my leadership skills. Being on YAC will also help me learn more about myself, my goals, my strengths, and my weaknesses. Being on a team will help me identify these and work on improving my skills in communication, teamwork and responsibility. I think that working with other peers is such a great opportunity because it allows me to see different perspectives and ideas, learn from how other students handle certain situations, and get experience working in a group setting where everyone has a common goal; in this case, that would be to help Dublin youth and make positive changes for our community. It would help me test my current knowledge and provide me with new strategies and ideas I can use in daily life. I am a social and outgoing person, and with YAC I want to further improve my skills to interact with others and communicate effectively. Communication, attitude and work ethic are all things I seek to improve at. Participating in YAC will not only teach me skills, but will also help me improve and broaden the ones I already have. I'll learn the best way to communicate with both individuals and larger groups, and as I develop new relationships, I'll gain emotional intelligence too. I want to challenge myself and be put in situations where I'm required to take advice from others as well as give my own advice, and collaborate to make decisions. If accepted into YAC, meeting new students, making connections, and building relationships is something I would majorly look forward to. Being a part of a team also usually means you have to play a role, and finding out what types of roles I'm good at is extremely important to me. This will help me work efficiently in group settings.

Identifying my own strengths will help me contribute my best efforts to a team, whether it's organization, generating ideas, being in charge of creative components, serving others, public speaking, or something else. Having that self-awareness is important to me because it will help me make the best of my capabilities to achieve goals in YAC, work productively with fellow members, and provide positive changes for the youth of Dublin and their families. That awareness will also be beneficial in my future career. I am an aspiring future leader, and I think that participation in YAC will help me gain lifelong skills and equip me with a great platform needed to work on a team that strives to make a difference for the youth of Dublin. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

2. What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* I believe I possess a diverse range of skills, including leadership, creativity, effective communication, teamwork, collaboration, persuasion, active listening, commitment and reliability. I have shown these skills throughout leadership roles and activities throughout my life. I have the ability to work with others, voice my thoughts and ideas in a productive manner, keep an open mind, and bring creative & innovative ideas to the table, making me a strong candidate for YAC. The biggest leadership role I've taken on in the past three years is in my school's Band/Orchestra department. I'm extremely involved in music education; I'm confident in my abilities as serving as a leader for the past few years. In the 2020-2021 school year, I was a student representative for the student board for the Band/Orchestra Department, called the Music Association. I was a co-founder of this organization. That first year was during distance learning, so I helped coordinate and organize multiple bi-weekly virtual meetings for the team. I organized virtual fundraisers for our music department, created flyers, and coordinated in-person events. This helped me develop strong virtual communication skills, as I had to communicate with the other members via online 1332
this organization. That first year was during distance learning, so I helped coordinate and organize multiple bi-weekly virtual meetings for the team. I organized virtual fundraisers for our music department, created flyers, and coordinated in-person e
events. This helped me develop strong virtual communication skills, as I had to communicate with the other members via online vents. This helped me develop strong virtual communication skills, as I had to communicate with the other members via online meetings and plan fundraising events virtually. Because of this, I also have lots of experience handling money and keeping track of cost logistics; this would be a very valuable skill for YAC projects and community events that we host. I also helped organize a virtual band ceremony at the end of the school year, where I had to reach out to students and their families, collect videos and letters, make flyers, and give my own speech to the department. During distance learning, I was also a section leader for Orchestra; I led virtual practices for the Orchestra and taught my peers, doing check-ins and providing any help needed, and reported back to the teacher. In the 2021-2022 school year (last year) I took an even bigger step in leadership for Band/Orchestra. I was the leading and first chair of Orchestra, which taught me how to take on many responsibilities and be the primary leader to an entire class of 30-40 students. I have conducted the Orchestra multiple times (this means leading the class) done class announcements, led extensive in-class and after school practice sessions for students, and assisted my peers. Another notable thing I did was elementary tutoring. I taught elementary school Bands/Orchestras. I helped lead their rehearsals and practices over multiple weekends and coordinated many of lesson plans for those practices, showing that I can work with younger peers and will always take time to help my student community. I have stayed multiple hours after school and over the weekends to provide help to fellow students, showing that I know how to efficiently take control of events that I lead. I'm always willing to make time for my student community, and YAC would be able to rely on me for this type of consistency and commitment. For the Music Association (the student-run board I talked about previously) that same year (22-23), I was the Vice President and worked with a team of three other executive officers. This opportunity taught me how to collaborate with a team, communicate, voice my ideas and listen to the thoughts and concerns of my peers, carry out actions, and make positive changes to our music department. I wrote a bylaw for this association single-handedly, and I helped write all the other bylaws as well with my 3 other officers. I organized multiple fundraisers with my team, and I specifically worked a lot on the publicity aspect of it (making flyers, advertizing, emailing families, social media presence, etc), showing that I have creativity and persuasion skills. I get things done fast and am committed to my roles and responsibilities. I also helped coordinate day-long events for Band/Orchestra- I have written and planned full itineraries, and I've also managed and kept track of logistics, including keeping an organized document of our department costs for food, games, decorations, etc. I not only helped plan these events, but I have arrived hours earlier before these events to coordinate set-up and help decorate & organize, and I've stayed hours later to help clear the area and lead clean-up. I have very strong organization skills from this, and I'm confident that if I'm given a task, I can carry it out and keep all logistics under control. This skill of responsibility & organization, and my experience handling logistics also makes me a strong candidate for YAC. I will be able to effectively coordinate & organize community events and other YAC events, and I will be able to work with a team to carry them out successfully. 2021-2022 was also the first year back in-person, so it meant a lot for Band/Orchestra students and their families to be able to attend these in-person events and ceremonies again; I'm glad to have been a part of making that happen. Music education is one of the most important things to me, and I'm proud to have been a leading officer on a board that made sure all students in the department were able to have a fulfilling year back in person, receive opportunities, and feel safe and supported. YAC is a similar ambition for me; this is what I want to do for my peers and community. I want to use my strengths and passions to help be a voice for others and influence positive change. Lastly, my role in the music department has also helped develop my speaking skills. At Band/Orchestra ceremonies, I've given speeches to large audiences (all the music department families, students, and staff) about my experience and journey with the department. I've also given presentations to the class, and presented my ideas at the music student board meetings to other officers. Being the leading chair in Orchestra, I gave speeches at all of our concerts too.

Because of this, I have the experience and knowledge on how to speak on behalf of a community and be a voice for my fellow students. Overall, from my roles in the music department, I've demonstrated strong leadership, persuasion, teamwork/collaboration, commitment, consistency, public speaking, listening, and reliability- all of which are skills that I would carry out to my full potential on YAC. Outside of school, one of my biggest accomplishments is getting into California All-State Honor Orchestra. All-State is the among the most prestigious and high-level Orchestra ensembles across the state of CA for high schoolers. Every year, a group of selected members are gathered to participate in a 4 day trip and give a performance at a concert hall. There are over 2,000 auditions submitted per year, but only about 120 students are accepted and invited to perform at All-State. I was accepted into High School All-State as a freshman this year. The auditions are difficult music and take months to perfect and perform. I spent 7 months practicing my audition, starting in May when the audition info came out and ending in December when I had to perform my final audition. I practiced for hours daily and spent most my weekends on it too.

It wasn't an easy task, but through this I demonstrated a lot of determination, commitment and ambition and showed that I'm willing to work as hard as I can to meet my goals. I put in my best effort into things I'm passionate about, and I would demonstrate the same on YAC. Also, this event is highly professional, and having participated in it, I have the knowledge and experience on how to act and present myself in professional settings and this also makes me very equipped for YAC. Moving on from Band/Orchestra, I'm also on Dublin High School's Debate team. I think a really important skill that would be valuable in YAC is public speaking, and being able to voice my thoughts in a productive manner and staying well-informed. I have acquired those skills from Debate. I am one of the few freshmen who competes on this team. Debate topics usually revolve around community and societal issues. We do extensive research on these topics, prepare cases, and present our ideas with speeches at debate tournaments. In a way, it's similar to a council setting- I have experience researching, presenting my ideas and voicing my thoughts from this- all of which would be valuable for YAC. Doing these tournaments over time has opened my eyes to many community issues, made me more world-aware, and given me a more open mind. It's given me the ability to see many perspectives in complex situations, analyze viewpoints and draw rational conclusions. I believe this has given me a strong sense of awareness, public speaking skills, and active listening skills. I am a strong candidate for YAC because I'll be able to analyze situations with an open thought process, consider different perspectives from our community, and help take action. I've also demonstrated commitment and consistency with debate, as I attend all meetings and tournaments, having placed 1st in three tournaments (out of 5) this year so far. Another thing that makes YAC special is that it's essentially a group of students working together; teamwork is an essential skill for this committee, and I demonstrate it not only with work with a team of Music board officers, but also through team sports. I played one full season of Basketball last year on Junior Warriors. I worked with a team and it helped me gain many skills, including cooperation, sportsmanship, and communication. Basketball helped me understand the importance of team building, working together, and that making mistakes is perfectly normal as long as you're surrounded by a supportive & uplifting team. This makes me a strong candidate for YAC, because it's taught me how to work with a team, uplift others, and communicate. That is exactly how I would treat fellow members in YAC; I'm an optimistic and supportive person, and I would want all my fellow members to feel supported, safe and be able to express themselves around me. The next set of skills I want to talk about is my creativity, patience and artistic intuition. I have been doing creative art for almost 10 years now, and I'm a really skilled artist. I've had one of my pieces published in a national art magazine that 1333
and supportive person, and I would want all my fellow members to feel supported, safe and be able to express themselves around me. The next set of skills I want to talk about is my creativity, patience and artistic intuition. I have been doing creative a
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featured artwork of selected students grades K-12. There's also a painting I made that was featured at the DUSD Art Exhibit in 2019. I've also entered various art competitions and won prizes for my work. In YAC, these skills can help me make flyers, decorations, posters and other publicity-centered ads for events. Also, because of my experience with setting up school fundraisers (as I mentioned when talking about my work with the band/orchestra department), I know how to promote with artwork and visual advertizements. Aside from visual arts, I also excel in performing arts. Violin is my Orchestra instrument, and I take private lessons for that, but I've also done smaller things which show my dedication to my music passion & ambition.

Over the course of the past two years, I taught myself three instruments: the piano, the guitar, and an Indian instrument called the veena. I did this on my own time without lessons, and I can now successfully play all of these. I'm still teaching myself these instruments, and since I don't have a teacher for them, I've set my own goal for it and I'm still working towards it. This shows that even without time pressure or deadlines, I'm able to dedicate myself to my passions and succeed in them. The final and most important component for performing arts that I do is vocal lessons. I have been singing for 10 years now, and I learn traditional Indian music. I love being able to do an extracurricular that helps me feel proud of my ethnicity and culture. I've performed at various cultural events and ceremonies, and I've entered many competitions and won prizes as well. In 2019, for an annual competition called Saptami, I qualified from the state level with 1st place and went for Nationals, where I won 2nd. I've demonstrated lots of time, ambition, patience and commitment through my singing journey. The last thing I want to talk about is my involvement in the community. I'm a part of many volunteer organizations and other community-focused clubs at Dublin High. These include Unicef (charity to help advocate for childrens' education), California Scholarship Federation (volunteering and community service), MSF (providing medical aid for refugees), PATCH (working with local hospitals/children shelters to raise child abuse awareness), and Girls 4 Sports (advocating for womens' equality in sports). I am an active member of all of these organizations and am planning to run for their officer positions next year. The work, dedication and care I've put into the community through these is the same work, dedication and commitment I will bring to the table at YAC. I have explored so many different activities and roles over the years, and I will use these skills Iâ€™ve acquired from them to bring positive change for my community and Dublin youth.
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3. What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC could address these issues?*
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1) Lack of STEM education for disabled students This could apply for other departments too, but I think for STEM in specific, getting fulfilling education and opportunities is an issue that teens with learning disabilities face in Dublin today. I feel that in a lot of schools, disabled students are given the option of either prioritizing their health/medical accommodations or their education; the change we should make happen is setting up programs and systems for these students to be able to succeed in both. Society is becoming dependent on technology and slowly becoming more advanced; This is why specifically STEM subjects have become a main priority for schools. However, I think that our STEM department isn't fulfilling the needs and learning capacities of disabled students. Our regular STEM department provides so many opportunities, including science fairs, competitions, a wide range of class choices, etc. This range isn't offered to the special needs student community. YAC can take an initiative to help build a system like that to fit students with learning disabilities. We can help provide the educational technology, guidance, flexibility, and support needed for neurodivergent students to thrive in STEM too. This would probably take time to fully establish and stabilize, but in the longterm, it would make a huge difference to disabled students that have deep passions for STEM fields, are seeking opportunities, and want to study for a STEM career after high school. This would mean a lot for those students and their families, and would play a huge role in helping more diverse students contribute and engage with our growing STEM fields. 2) Lack of connectivity between middle schools and Dublin High Before the 3 feeder schools- Wells, Cottonwood, and Fallon- come to Dublin High, they don't really get the chance to build connections with each other and are generally very separated. The schools in our district do well on their own, but there aren't many events or opportunities where students from the three middle schools get to collaborate with each other and interact. I think it's important for all Dublin youth across different schools to be able to build good relationships with each other, and have their middle schools work and be in contact with each other. It's important for our middle schools to be connected with each other in order for the student body to become more unified. Forming relationships with schools other than their own will open students up to new settings and people. Especially now, with Emerald High School opening, the feeder middle schools will be split; there will be one batch going to Emerald High and another going to Dublin High. This means that students at Fallon, Cottonwood and Wells who attend different high schools might not even be able to meet each other. YAC could help host tri-school events where all middle school students can come together and participate in activities together. Some ideas I have for combined school events are: field days (these are great for interaction and teamwork), combined school dances, community service days, meets/exchanges for the various departments (drama, band, orchestra, art, PLTW, etc), combined clubs and organizations (these could meet after school and over the weekends too, creating a chance for students to meet new people in their city through common interests) and other bonding events. These events can not only be planned between the middle schools, but also between Dublin High and the middle schools. It would be a great opportunity for younger students to interact with their high school peers and learn about the high school environment as well. It's really important for all our schools to collaborate with each other and let their students interact; Cottonwood, Fallon and Wells should be able to come together as one and form bonds with each other even before they go to high school. Dublin High students should also be given the opportunity to interact with their younger peers. 3) School-provided lunches can be improved Students should be able to get proper and full nutrition from school lunches, and I think the current school lunch system can be altered more to fit those needs. Having the proper balance between nutrients and various food groups such as good portions of fruits and vegetables is important for growing teens' health. This will increase academic performance, as well as improve mental and physical health among teens. Currently, I've noticed that there isn't enough of a balance between milk, fruit, vegetables and whole grains in school lunches every day. A lot of the lunches are pre-packaged, processed or frozen. One example of that is the lunch option is premade Bosco-sticks with marinara sauce, which are typically served once a week. These types of lunch options can be altered to accommodate nutritional value with components from nutritional food groups (fruits, vegetables, dairy, grains, etc). There's a large number of students who don't bring lunches from home and therefore have to rely on school lunches; this means we should make our school lunches as nutritional and healthy as possible. YAC can provide feedback and input on the current meal plans, and help make changes to the food options at DUSD schools. Another thing that can be done is adding more nutritional snacks to the snack bars at schools, so that students have the option of buying healthier snacks. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)
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4. What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2023-2024 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities?* I'm participating in many organizations and extracurriculars this year, and I'm planning to continue all except Pre-Law Society for the 2023-2024 school year. I'm taking a 0 period class all 4 years of high school (Honors Chamber Orchestra). The organizations I'm a part of are... 1) Speech & Debate- Preparing extensive cases & research on current event topics and presenting speeches at debate tournaments) 2) DHS Honors Chamber Orchestra: The audition-based and highest level Orchestra at DHS- there are about 20 students currently in this, and we rehearse challenging Orchestra music and perform at various festivals and concerts; it includes after school commitment as well as 0 period 3) Unicef: A charity that partners with clubs across the world to help children, focused on education, advocation, education, equality and protection 4) CSF (California Scholarship Federation): A nonprofit organization that recognizes and encourages academic achievement through volunteering and community service 5) MSF (Doctors Without Borders): A nonprofit organization that provides medical aid for refugees around the world- I will be attending my first medical conference for this at UC Berkeley in April 6) PATCH: Bringing awareness to child abuse & providing/creating comfort items to victims of abuse, sending them to children shelters and local hospitals 7) Pre-Law Society: mock trials, guest speakers such as lawyers and law students, competitions, and debates/discussions 8) Girls 4 Sports: Raising awareness about women's salaries, media coverage and appreciation in the sports, and empowering girls who want to pursue a sports career- we have seminars, speeches, summits, workshops and guest speakers 9) Vocal (Singing)- I learn cultural music (Indian) outside of school. I perform at various cultural events, festivals and gatherings and I do competitions, having won awards in local, state, regional, and national levels 10) Visual Art- I do visual art outside of school actively in many different forms (drawing, painting, graphite, paper mache, oil paint, watercolor, acrylic, etc.): Iâ€™ve entered contests and won prizes, once having my work published in a national children's art magazine I am participating in many activities, but I have thought through it thoroughly and I'm confident that I will be able to not only devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities, but I'll strive to be as involved with it as possible, making sure to attend all major events and be an active participant. Though I'm participating in other extracurriculars, I will always make time for YAC and devote myself to the community of Dublin; this will be top on my priority list. I'm confident that I can handle all of these responsibilities and excel with all of them, because I have been able to manage all of my current activities (listed above) while also maintaining consistent grades and performance this school year. I have the ability to balance after school activities, schoolwork, clubs, and my social life- I will always be available when the committee needs me. I am a responsible and organized person and I put in hard work and lots of effort to meet my goals. I want to push myself to make the best out of my capabilities. If accepted, I'm ready to challenge myself and add YAC to my schedule next year, and I will put in my best effort to contributing to YAC and devote myself to participating in it.
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5. How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* 1) Social Media Right now, most teens access information about the community, events, and activities through social media platforms- mainly Instagram. Social media is a part of daily life for teens and is becoming more and more prominent- itâ€™s the main tool that teens and groups use to network with each other and share information. Being a teen myself, Instagram is a major source I get information about city activities/community events from. Because of this, social media presence is a great way to get teens involved. By using social media, we can be more assured that teens are actually getting all the information about community events and are aware of the opportunities they have to participate. I would help get teens involved by creating Instagram accounts for YAC and creating posts to give information to teens about current city events going on. I would also propose creating virtual flyers and advertizements for community events and posts about opportunities for teens to get involved.

Then, I would repost those posts on my personal Instagram/give more information on my personal Instagram, and encourage other YAC members to do so too. Most students follow each other on Instagram, so we could use that to promote events on YAC students' personal accounts to ensure that their peers and followers also see the information and are inspired to get involved. 2) Advertize different aspects of the event (separately) that teens can help with Another thing Iâ€™d do to catch the attention of teens and get them involved is separately advertizing different parts of the event they can help with. This will help appeal to different interests and help us connect to teens through their passions and skills. For example, we can get art-loving teens involved in community events by asking for volunteers to help with decorations, create event banners, and other artistic volunteer opportunities at events. This is only one example, but we could do this for all other components that rely on certain skills at events that teens can get involved with; they will be more excited to get involved if they receive information about the specific things they can try or do. All teens have their own unique strengths, skills and hobbies, and they will sign up for involvement that allows them to showcase these talents and do what they're good at & love doing. If we have teens helping with different parts of community events, itâ€™s a great thing because they are getting the opportunity to utilize their own skills and preferences to help out the community and get involved. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)
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6. Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting? If yes, what was the meeting date and what was the outcome of the item(s) you were interested in?* I have not attended any YAC events or other council meetings, but there was one in particular that interested me a lot. There was a Mental Health Summit at DHS organized by the mayorâ€™s council on Wednesday, February 1st, but unfortunately I wasnâ€™t able to make it. I find the topic of mental health really interesting and I want to learn more about it; itâ€™s a very relevant and important topic for teenagers right now. Another event I couldn't attend but wanted to go to was YACâ€™s Mental Health Forum. If there's another one next year, I will surely attend. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

8. A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Upload Letter of Recommendation (required).*
2023 Renu- Letter of Recommendation 1.pdf
Upload 2nd Letter of Recommendation (optional)
2023 Renu - Letter of Recommendation 2.pdf
Application materials must be submitted via this online application form. The application deadline is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 24, 2023. Applications or letters of recommendation will not be accepted after the deadline. 1337
To whom it may concern,
I am writing to recommend Renu Srivathsa for the Dublin Youth Advisory Council. I have known Renu since August of 2022 where she has served as a member of the DHS Orchestra program.

Renu is a kind, talented student who has proven to be dedicated to the Orchestra program. As a member of the Philharmonic Orchestra, Renu’s diligence in practicing caused her to score higher than most of the other violinists in Philharmonic Orchestra. She successfully auditioned for our Chamber Orchestra in March of 2023, demonstrating strong musicianship, hard work, and perseverance.

Her most notable achievement was making the 2023 California All-State String Orchestra as a freshman, when she was still a member of our Philharmonic Orchestra. She beat every other violinist at DHS who auditioned, including those in the Chamber Orchestra. Participation in All-State Orchestra is a great honor and indicates that you are among the strongest high school musicians in California.

As a member of the Orchestra program, Renu participates exceptionally well in class. She knows the answer to many of the questions asked to the class, and almost always volunteers when needed. She is an active participant in social/bonding activities and shows care for the other members of the Orchestra.

In conclusion, Renu’s participation in Orchestra is a good indicator that she would be a strong candidate for the Dublin Youth Advisory Council. For these reasons, I hope that you accept her.

Sincerely,
Elliot Polot
Director of Orchestras
Dublin High School
www.dublinusd.org/dhs
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COTTONWOOD CREEK SCHOOL
DUBLIN UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT Lorianne R. Ventura, Ed.D.

Principal
March 20th, 2023
To the Dublin Youth Advisory Committee Selection Team:

My name is Jasper Tran and I am the Music Director at Cottonwood Creek School (CCS) in Dublin, CA.

I am also the new Music Director for Emerald High School which is the Dublin Unified School District's second comprehensive high school. I am writing to recommend Renu Srivathsa for the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee.

Renu is a member of the Dublin High orchestra and she is a former member of the CCS orchestra program. She held the leadership position of concertmaster which is the highest rank in that faction. She oversaw orchestra leadership, taught younger elementary students, and assisted her peers.

In addition to her roles in orchestra, she was also a member of the Music Association which is our student run music club. She assisted with events that allowed our students to collaborate after the pandemic. This was essential in building a cohesive program.

It is my pleasure to recommend her for the Youth Advisory Council.

Sincerely,
Jasper Tran
Music Director, Cottonwood Creek School
Music Director, Emerald High School
[email protected]
(925) 833-3333 x6583
2400 Central Parkway • Dublin • California 94568 • (925) 833-3333 • Fax (925) 833-3711 1339

Application Submittal
Your completed application must be submitted via this online form. Application submittals must include the following items:

Questions
Please direct questions to Liz Eilliott, Recreation Supervisor, at 925-833-6645 or email First Name*
Pranayasree
Last Name*
Suman Raj
Street Address*
Print
Youth Advisory Committee Application 2023-2024 term - Submission #5767 Date Submitted: 3/23/2023
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City*
Dublin
State*
California
Zip*
94568
Email Address*
Phone Number*
What school will you attend in the 2023-2024 school year?* Dublin High School
What grade will you be in during the 2023-2024 school year?* Grade 9

1. Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* Becoming a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee would give me the opportunity to engage and collaborate with members of our community to make positive changes. Hearing otherâ€™s ideas and opinions on how to make Dublin a better place would help me grow and learn, so I can contribute more to Dublin. It would allow me to express my opinions on issues that teens in Dublin are facing. It gives young people a voice. Another reason why I want to become a YAC member is to form relationships with city leaders, such as the mayor and all public servants. Ever since I was young, I have admired people who work to make a difference in the community; I have wished to formally meet these people, so I can help the community like they do. To make my goal a reality of supporting my community, I formed â€œSave the Planet,â€ a group established with my friends. I created and published a google site. The site is about not littering and keeping our communities green. Joining YAC would allow me to make further impacts by directly supporting the people in our city. The link to our site on keeping our communities green: https://sites.google.com/d/19Y4lH_zTQNDtHhCdU3Q8iNoYBrFehc6/p/1kEuyx914VuLBpH_NPLiK3EiNxllIuwqw/edit (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

2. What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* Traits that make me a strong candidate for YAC are leadership, cooperation, time management, commitment, and respect.

First and foremost, I developed leadership skills thanks to my experience as captain of my basketball team. Through trial and error, I was able to manage and keep my team together through different challenges such as disagreeing on gameplays. When things were getting harder, I was able to find the problem and put in extra work by making a new plan that involved everyoneâ €™s strengths to solve it. In addition, I have extraordinary cooperation; due to playing several team sports, I effectively understand both points of views and do not lose my temper during an argument. I have learned to work out differences, to find a middle ground that both sides are comfortable with the outcome. Furthermore, I have great time management skills. This is exemplified in how I manage many different activities in and out of school while maintaining a high GPA. Moreover, I am very committed. Once I commit to an event or cause, I do everything in my power to remain dedicated to completing the project. For instance, I have devoted 8 years to Bharatanatyam and only missed class due to emergencies. Most importantly, I respect everyone no matter if we are of a different race, culture, belief system, or ability level. I know what it feels like to be discriminated against for my race; I made a promise to myself that I would treat everyone equally and always be open minded to new people and new ideas. In short, my character traits make me a strong and capable candidate for YAC. Finally, an understanding that sets me apart from other candidates for YAC is that I gained insight on not only teens attending school at Dublin but also the special needs children. As a part of the Little Buddy Big Buddy program at our school, I was one of the 4 volunteers who were buddies with kids who had physical and mental disabilities. When I was working with these students, I realized that I had a lot in common with these special needs students and enjoyed hanging out with them. On the contrary, many of my peers who havenâ€™t spent time with them didnâ€™t think so; I want to address my peers and other teens in Dublin about these special needs students to provide a more inclusive environment for them. I want to make sure to the best of my ability that they are not looked down upon by other members of this community. My appreciation and awareness of the special needs students makes me a better candidate for YAC because I can not only introduce perspectives of the general teens but also the special needs students.
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3. What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC could address these issues?*
Some critical issues that teens in Dublin need more support in dealing with are social media safety, stress from academic and personal matters, and peer pressure. YAC could address these matters by spreading awareness for each of these matters.

One way to address these issues would be to invite specific guest speakers to Dublin schools to guide students in healthy ways to handle these problems. The presentations should be mandatory for all teens residing in Dublin. Furthermore, we can set up small booths at events or during lunchtime at school, to bring awareness. To further resolve this issue to everyone, we can point out non-profit organizations that specifically target making a step to solving these problems and encourage teens to be part of these non-profit organizations. I know that at least one of these solutions could help teens since I have experienced these issues myself and know that I just needed a community that understands me; this is exactly what these solutions will do for any student out there like me and make Dublin a safer and more inclusive environment for teens. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

4. What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2023-2024 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities?* Currently, I am involved in several activities in and out of school. Firstly, I was the captain of my basketball team during my summer season and I also play basketball on my school team; I was one of the starting 5 players for the 7th/8th grade basketball team. In addition to the in-school sports that I take part of, I play volleyball on the school team. Moreover, at school, I am part of Symphonic Band, the highest level of band offered in the school year of 2022-2023; I play the flute. Ultimately, through these several school-based activities, I have been able to better understand my school and the importance of students in our community. Moreover, outside of school, I like to be able to explore my roots and culture. To better understand my mother tongue, I attend California Tamil Academy. I am currently enrolled in HSCP 2 at the tamil academy which is a level equivalent to a second year of a language in a regular school system. Furthermore, I decided that learning my native language was not enough to understand my roots, so I started volunteering at the local temple. While volunteering at the temple, I learned more about the hymns sung for our god and started understanding some basic words in Sanskrit; Sanskrit is an ancient language in which our hymns are written. Lastly in pursuit of staying down to my roots. I take part in Bharatanatyam; a classical Indian dance style. Outside of school, in my neighborhood, I coordinated and conducted art lessons over the summer for younger kids in elementary school. I started teaching art lessons to help kids learn and encourage their curiosity. I like the diversity of interests in the community and enjoy helping in nurturing these talents. In the coming year of 2023-2024, I plan to play basketball and volleyball; I will also take a third year of Tamil and continue to practice Bharatanatyam. Apart from continuing my activities from this year, I wish to take part in clubs at high school including Green Earth, National Honors Society, California Scholarship Federation, and Key Club to further explore my interests. As it is my deep passion to make a community impact, the Youth Advisory Committeeâ€™s meetings and activities will always be one of my top priorities. In the school year of 2023-2024, I will be able to devote time each month for Youth Advisory Committee meetings and activities (This boxcan be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

5. How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* I would get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and city-sponsored activities by giving presentations on different platforms such as social media, in-person presentations in different schools of Dublin, and online presentations if people canâ €™t attend the in-person presentations. In these presentations, I would explain about the community, what events we are sponsoring, and why we are holding these events. As a part of the teen group, I know how to convince other teens in a creative and engaging way to take part in the community, events, and activities through a presentation. I would be the right person to deliver this presentation because I know that a normal presentation is boring; I would add fun games and make the presentation interactive so that I can keep their attention which would give me a better chance of convincing them to take part in and attend these activities. As a teen, I find it most interesting when I can actually hear someone passionate about an issue speakingâ €“rather than a flyer or an emailâ€“therefore, I hope to utilize my voice to make change. It is necessary to communicate these events in an innovative and clever way.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

6. Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting? If yes, what was the meeting date and what was the outcome of the item(s) you were interested in?* Yes, I have attended a Dublin City Council meeting that took place on March 7, 2023. I was interested in the funding agreement with the Tri-Valley Transportation Council for the Iron Horse Trail Bridge Project. The outcome was that the council accepted the $600,000 in order to fund the Horse Trail Bridge Project. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)
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8. A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Upload Letter of Recommendation (required).*
Letterhead Sargent.pdf
Upload 2nd Letter of Recommendation (optional)
Pranayasree.pdf
Application materials must be submitted via this online application form. The application deadline is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 24, 2023. Applications or letters of recommendation will not be accepted after the deadline. 1343

COTTONWOOD CREEK SCHOOL
DUBLIN UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT Lorianne R. Ventura, Ed.D.

Principal
March 20, 2023
To Whom It May Concern:

I am excited to write this letter on behalf of Miss Pranayasree Suman Raj for your consideration of her acceptance into the Dublin Youth Advisory Committee. I have known Pranayasree for four years since she arrived as a fifth grade student.

Miss Suman Raj came to Cottonwood Creek from Fremont. Right away she began making friends, finding her voice and helping to provide voice to others. Over the last few years, I watched as she took on different roles around our campus to help build a positive school culture. These roles include participation in athletics, where she was awarded the honor of being team captain, a member of the yearbook staff where she helped tell our school’s story by capturing photos, personal stories and more. In addition she was a big buddy to students with learning differences.

Characteristics Miss Suman Raj demonstrates include honesty, integrity, dedication, collaboration, responsibility, hard work. She is able to see the big picture and has the ability to make objective decisions that are good for the whole, the part and the greater whole. She is a terrific role model for her peers and younger students.

I highly recommend Miss Pranayasree Suman Raj for your committee. She will be an asset to the Dublin Youth Advisory Committee.

Sincerely,
Lorianne R. Ventura, Ed.D.

Principal
2400 Central Parkway • Dublin • California 94568 • (925) 833-3333 • Fax (925) 833-3711 1344

COTTONWOOD CREEK SCHOOL

DUBLIN UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT
Friday 10 March 2023
To Whom It May Concern:

Lorianne R. Ventura, Ed.D.

Principal
This letter is i_ntended to alert you to the talents of a bright, dedicated, and responsible student, Pranayasree Suman Raj. To provide ~ontext_ for !hrs reference, I've taught secondary English in the public school system for over 20 years. I have had the pleasure of rnstructrng Pranayasree (Pranaya) Raj Suman for the past 7 months at Cottonwood Creek School. I consider it a privilege to recommend Pranaya for the 2023-2024 City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee.

As a student in my class, Pranaya exhibits both strong verbal and written skills. She completes tasks with quality, while meeting expectations. I know Miss Suman Raj to be very patient and understanding. She treats her peers and adults with respect. Additional strengths are how well Pranaya follows directions. If she needs to revise a task or doesn't understand a concept, she asks for clarification or assistance. She welcomes feedback and constructive criticism, so she can improve her skills and further her understanding of a concept. Moreover, Pranaya actively participates in discussions. In fact, she has maintained an A grade in English 8 all three terms, exceeded the standard on the English Language Arts portion of the state test (SBAC) last year and achieved a high school reading level on the district's STAR reading assessment. To call distinction to her efforts, she has been awarded Principal's Honor Roll every term this school year.

Another trait I wish to highlight is the level of maturity and empathy that Pranaya exhibits. She volunteered to buddy with Cottonwood Creek's Special Education students who have both physical and intellectual challenges, for the school's Big Buddy/Little Buddy mentor program. She gained tremendous insight partnering with the Special Education students, sharing how it is critical that all CCS students need to learn about the school's special programs to gain a better understanding of her buddy class. Pranaya expressed concern that there is a need to educate the general population of the student body, so they better understand and respect our Special Education class to provide them a more supportive and inclusive environment.

Pranaya prioritizes her academics, but recognizes the importance of being well rounded. She played on CCS's basketball team, as well as on a city league team outside of school and was selected as Team Captain. She is enrolled in two high school level courses, Spanish and Algebra, as well as a zero period elective, Symphonic Band. Pranaya has played the flute for the past 3 years.

Furthermore, she participates in Tamil language classes and Bharatanatyam dance to learn about and preserve the traditions of her heritage. Her mother, a state chess player in India, introduced her to the game of kings as a young child. She has been playing and winning competitions for as long as she can remember. These extra-curricular activities are just a few testaments of her desire to explore opportunities for scholastic and social emotional growth to better serve her community.

I am pleased to have the opportunity to write this letter of recommendation for Pranayasree Suman Raj. Without a doubt, Pranaya's internal drive, in conjunction with her educational and social aptitudes would make her an exceptional candidate for Dublin's Youth Advisory Committee. Please feel free to contact me if you have questions or need further information.

Sincerely,
2400 Central Parkway• Dublin• California 94568 • (925) 833-3333 • Fax (925) 833-3711 1345

Application Submittal
Your completed application must be submitted via this online form. Application submittals must include the following items:

Questions
Please direct questions to Liz Eilliott, Recreation Supervisor, at 925-833-6645 or email First Name*
Aria
Last Name*
Surapaneni
Street Address*
Print
Youth Advisory Committee Application 2023-2024 term - Submission #5812 Date Submitted: 3/24/2023
1346
City*
Dublin
State*
CA
Zip*
94568
Email Address*
Phone Number*
What school will you attend in the 2023-2024 school year?* Dublin High
What grade will you be in during the 2023-2024 school year?* Junior

1. Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* I want to become a member of the YAC program because I want to use my skills to help out my community and make a change in my small town. Ever since I was a kid I always geared towards classes like Leadership where we are allowed to volunteer and use our skills to make a difference in others lives. One event I partook in during Leadership this year that I would like to share is the Angel Tree. The Angel Tree is a volunteer event where a group of leadership students went out and bought clothes and toys for underprivileged kids that are in foster homes. This event overall changed the way I think about life and it made me realize how fortunate I am. By being a part of this, I realized how much I love helping out my community and being a part of something that overall makes a bigger impact for other people. This is the main reason I want to be a part of this program. I know that being a part of this program will allow me to do a lot more events like the Angel Tree and allow me to use my ideas to help the city of Dublin as a whole.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

2. What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* Skills that I possess that would make me a strong candidate for the YAC program is my determination and perseverance in the hardest of times. I always work hard even in the toughest situations that most people give up in. I am also a very kind hearted person who will thrive in a program that is all about helping the community. Some other traits that I possess are being a very honest person and being extremely loyal.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

3. What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC could address these issues?*
Teens in general are dealing with hyper utilization of social media, abuse of controlled substances and moral/ethical dilemmas.

In Dublin especially there is prevalence of marijuana usage amongst teens as vaping became more popular. Nearly every teen is spending unhealthy amounts of time on social media and are bombarded with misguided messages that are leading to severe anxiety and depression. I see this fairly common in Dublin. Furthermore, degradation of values and morals are leading more Dublin teens to engage in unhealthy sexual relationships that only cause further depression and anxiety. YAC can greatly help Dublin teens by helping them be focused on positive activities that lead to better outcomes. For example a teen engaged in after school activities like sports, music, dance and volunteer jobs are more likely to stay focused and be less dependent on social media.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)
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4. What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2023-2024 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities?* Activities I am involved in currently at Dublin High School are Lacrosse, Leadership, Best Buddies Club, Two Birds Club, and Girl Scouts. I will be able to devote time for the YAC program by properly managing my time and making sure I am not overworking myself. I also will make sure that I make my priorities first and everything else second. The YAC program will be one of my priorities and I will prioritize it and make sure I utilize my time efficiently to make sure I am giving my 100 percent on this program. I also already have a very efficient calendar that has been working for me so far in high school with all my activities, so I will add this program onto the calendar to make sure that it balances with my schedule. (This boxcan be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

5. How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* As a current leadership student I have intensive experience with involving the community in school activities and overall encouraging my peers to be more involved in school programs. I will take these skills and apply them to the YAC program by trying my best to be positive and encouraging other about the city sponsored activities and using my people skills to connect with others teens and explaining to them about why they should attend certain events. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

6. Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting? If yes, what was the meeting date and what was the outcome of the item(s) you were interested in?* I have not attended any YAC program yet, but i am friends with many people who have been apart of these programs and they have told me all about them.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

8. A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Upload Letter of Recommendation (required).*
Arias Recommendation letter.pdf
Upload 2nd Letter of Recommendation (optional)
Choose File No file selected
Application materials must be submitted via this online application form. The application deadline is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 24, 2023. Applications or letters of recommendation will not be accepted after the deadline. 1348
Dear Admissions Committee,
I am the Founder and Creative Director of KalaAwishkar Bharatnatyam Dance School located in San Jose, California. Over the past 15 years, I have trained over 100 students across the Bay Area. Aria Surapaneni has been my student for the past eight years, and I've had the honor of getting to know her very well.

Bharatnatyam is a 2,000-year-old Indian classical dance form originating from South India. The word Bharatnatyam stems from Bha meaning bhava or expression, ra meaning raga or melody, ta meaning Taalam or rhythm, and Natyam meaning dance. An accomplished dancer must master expression, posture and rhythm with years of dedicated practice. Bharatnatyam has been nurtured, maintained, preserved and passed on from one generation to the next. It is a symbol of beauty, an example of aesthetic perfection, and an expression of the search of the human soul.

I've been teaching Aria Bharatnatyam since she was just 6 years old. She was immediately drawn to this type of art and rapidly mastered the dance's sophisticated footwork. She is currently enrolled in my advanced class, where she is demonstrating her commitment and developing over the years of diligent effort into an outstanding Bharatnatyam dancer.

Aria recently went to Videc Wellness University workshop without her parents, displaying her self-discipline by getting up at 5:30 in the morning to go to her meditation and dance class. She is compassionate, understanding, and constantly willing to assist younger kids as they prepare for activities and dance competitions. She is dependable and well-organized, and I can always count on her for assistance. She is a wonderful peer and ideal student to have on campus and will add significant cultural and artistic value to the Youth Advisory Community. Please feel free to reach out to me if you have any questions.

Sincerely,
Shraddha Joglekar
Founder & Creative Director
KalaAwishkar Dance School & Yogic Dance
Phone:

Email:
1349

Application Submittal
Your completed application must be submitted via this online form. Application submittals must include the following items:

Questions
Please direct questions to Liz Eilliott, Recreation Supervisor, at 925-833-6645 or email First Name*
Aditya
Last Name*
Suresh
Street Address*
Print
Youth Advisory Committee Application 2023-2024 term - Submission #5805 Date Submitted: 3/24/2023
1350
City*
Dublin
State*
California
Zip*
94568
Email Address*
Phone Number*
What school will you attend in the 2023-2024 school year?* Dublin High School
What grade will you be in during the 2023-2024 school year?* 10th

1. Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* One of the main reasons I want to join the Dublin City Youth Advisory Committee is that I am passionate about community service and giving back. As a First Class Scout, I have been constantly participating in such activities for the past 5 years. I believe we all have a responsibility to positively impact our communities and serving on this committee would allow me to do just that. By working with other committee members, we can create meaningful and sustainable change that will benefit not only the young people of Dublin, but the entire community. Another reason I am interested in joining this committee is that I want to learn more about local government and how it works. As a committee member, I have the opportunity to interact with city officials and learn more about the decision-making process. This is not only a valuable learning experience for me, but also helps me become a more informed and engaged citizen. In addition to these reasons, I also believe that working for the Dublin City Youth Committee will allow me to develop important leadership and team building skills. Working on projects with other committee members requires me to communicate effectively, listen to other ideas and work together for a common goal. These are all skills that will serve me well in the future, no matter what career path I choose. Finally, I would like to join the Dublin City Youth Committee because it can influence the lives of young people in our community. By working with initiatives and programs that benefit young people, we can help create a brighter future for all. Whether it's organizing a community service project, increasing resources for youth programs, or raising awareness about important issues affecting young people, the work we do on this committee can have a real and meaningful impact. In conclusion, joining the Dublin City Youth Committee would be a great opportunity for me to give back to my community, learn more about local government, develop important leadership and teamwork skills and have a positive impact on the lives of young people. I am elated for the opportunity to serve on this committee and believe I would be a valuable addition to the team. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

2. What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* Over the past 5 years, I have been an active member of the Boy Scouts of America and have achieved the rank of First Class.

Recently, I have had the privilege of serving as a Patrol Leader, overseeing a group of eight children ranging from 6th to 11th grade. This experience has allowed me to hone my leadership skills by helping and guiding them in completing various tasks.

Moreover, I have also had the opportunity to volunteer for the City of Dublin on two occasions during my 7th and 8th grade summers. At The Wave, I assisted with bag check, clean-up, and supervised large groups of children. Working alongside peers of different ages, including adults, has taught me the value of teamwork and cooperation. As a leader, I have learned how to effectively communicate with active children and ensure they follow instructions. Overall, my experiences in scouting and volunteering have allowed me to develop invaluable leadership and teamwork skills, which I believe will serve me well in any future endeavors.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)
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3. What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC could address these issues?*
As a member of the teenage community in Dublin, I have witnessed firsthand the significant and complex challenges that we face. Three of the most prevalent issues that have a profound impact on our daily lives are constant stress, overwhelming expectations, and poor mental health. While these issues are interrelated and often mutually reinforcing, they each present unique challenges that affect students in distinct ways.Stress is one of the most pervasive issues facing students today. From academic pressure to social expectations, there are numerous stressors that can trigger a constant state of anxiety and tension. Many students feel overwhelmed by the volume of work they must complete, from homework assignments to extracurricular activities. The constant pressure to perform well and achieve high grades can take a significant toll on mental and emotional health. Moreover social stressors such as peer pressure can cause feelings of stress and anxiety. Another major issue is the burden of excessive expectations placed upon students. Whether it's parents, teachers, or even friends, there can be a silent expectation to excel in all areas of life. Students are often expected to participate in multiple extracurricular activities while maintaining high grades and a vibrant social life. This constant demand to excel can be overwhelming and lead to burnout, stress, and feelings of worthlessness. Lastly, poor mental health is a growing concern among the teenage community in Dublin. Depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues can have a profound impact on a student's life, affecting their academic performance, social interactions, and overall well-being. Despite the growing awareness and advocacy for mental health issues, there is still a significant stigma surrounding seeking help, which can exacerbate these issues. In conclusion, the challenges facing Dublin's teenage community are complex and multifaceted. Constant stress, excessive expectations, and poor mental health are just a few of the many issues that we must contend with on a daily basis. While these issues can seem overwhelming, it is important to recognize that help and support are available, and seeking assistance is a sign of strength, not weakness. Through open communication, empathy, and a willingness to listen, we can help support one another and work towards creating a more positive and supportive environment for all students. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

4. What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2023-2024 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities?* I am currently involved in the Robotics and Model United Nations clubs. I will be continuing these clubs through the 2023-2024 school year. However, I will always be able and ready to devote my time to YAC meetings and/or activities. If I am chosen to be on YAC, I will always place it before any other club or extra-curricular. (This boxcan be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

5. How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* My social circle is large and expansive not just in Dublin, but through other cities as well. I can bring friends and peers from extra-curriculars and friend groups to help and serve in the community. They will also be able to spread information about these activities. I can also attempt to bring members from my Boy Scouts committee to support our activities. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

6. Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting? If yes, what was the meeting date and what was the outcome of the item(s) you were interested in?* No.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

8. A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Upload Letter of Recommendation (required).*
Aditya Suresh .pdf
1352
Upload 2nd Letter of Recommendation (optional)
Choose File No file selected
Application materials must be submitted via this online application form. The application deadline is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 24, 2023. Applications or letters of recommendation will not be accepted after the deadline. 1353
March 24, 2023
To Whom It May Concern:

I have known Aditya since August of 2022 as a student in my college prep English course. What stands out to me the most about Aditya is his calm and collected approach to his work. He’s confident, assertive, and focused during class, group discussions, and assessments. He is the type of student that engages and approaches tasks with curiosity and attention to detail; someone that is an active learner.

As a peer, Aditya encourages others to participate, asks clarifying questions, and provides a welcoming space for opposing ideas. He can both contribute and offer constructive feedback that helps move conversations forward without conflict. He’s attentive to group dynamics and makes it a point to include all participants, especially those who may not be as confident or as respected by their peers. Recently, he volunteered to be a student socratic discussion leader for our class. This was a last minute request and he and his peers stepped up to the task. Of my four classes, their class had the most developed and evaluative opening discussion- this was largely due to the student leadership team that he helped lead.

Aditya works hard every single class, but also understands the importance of balance. He’s not a student that allows points to drive his learning or participation. He accepts feedback and scores with a willingness to continue to work hard towards learning standards and he understands that learning is a process. I appreciate the way that he communicates his questions and concerns about his scores. He speaks to you in person and/or sends polite and assertive emails that offer context for his achievements. He requests makeups and retakes for assessments he knows he can improve, and offers accountability for shortcomings.

I recommend Aditya for the Dublin Youth Advisory Committee. If accepted, he would be great at evaluating all sides of a project, would encourage all voices to contribute, and would be great at taking the opportunity as a learning and growth opportunity. He’s the type of student that will continue to make Dublin proud and he’d be a great addition to your committee.

Sincerely,
Kate Anderton
English 9 Course Lead
Dublin High School
1354

Application Submittal
Your completed application must be submitted via this online form. Application submittals must include the following items:

Questions
Please direct questions to Liz Eilliott, Recreation Supervisor, at 925-833-6645 or email First Name*
ChengYa
Last Name*
Tan
Street Address*
Print
Youth Advisory Committee Application 2023-2024 term - Submission #5761 Date Submitted: 3/23/2023
1355
City*
Dublin
State*
California
Zip*
94568
Email Address*
Phone Number*
What school will you attend in the 2023-2024 school year?* Dublin High School
What grade will you be in during the 2023-2024 school year?* 10th

1. Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* I want to become a member of the YAC so that can I serve my community, and help my fellow teens address the issues they are experiencing. Being a member of the YAC would allow me to give my input on teen activities that are happening around the city, and to put my creativity to use. I am passionate about building a better community for the teens I spend hours each day with, and by being a part of the YAC, I would be able to do my utmost best to represent the voices of all teens in Dublin. I have always loved interacting with others, and contributing my ideas to a larger project. The challenge of trying to figure out the best course of action to help others is something that I will always be interested in. I enjoy spending my time learning about the opportunities offered to teens in the city, and participating in various programs in the city. The YAC is where I would be able to share my ideas and use all of my experiences interacting with teens and skills Iâ€™ve gained from my volunteering to achieve things with my fellow committee members that will benefit all of the youths of Dublin. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

2. What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* I have learned to be a self motivated, and hardworking person ever since I started figure skating. The sport has always pushed me to achieve my goals through hard work, and has taught me the importance of perseverance and communication with others.

Oftentimes I am the one who takes charge of a group project and gives my input on what everyone is doing and the general direction we should take with the project. I have also learnt the importance, and mastered my leadership skills over the last few years through volunteer experiences, academics and my sport. I can understand and emphasize with others, and in addition, have a good organization and work ethic, which would benefit me as a member of the YAC. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

3. What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC could address these issues?*
I have seen my peers dealing with bad mental health because of social media, and burn out because of stress and parental pressure. I think that the YAC can address these issues by advocating and improving teen mental health through the use of counseling services and informing the public using fliers about how social media can ruin mental health. We can also address these issues by hiring a guest speaker to communicate with students at their schools. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)
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4. What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2023-2024 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities?* I am currently involved in Dublin Highâ€™s dance program, along with itâ€™s National Honors of Dance Society, and will continue to be involved with the Society next year. In addition, I am a part of the school California Scholarship Federation (CSF), and will be an officer of the school Key Club. I also have figure skating, which is a sport I have done since I was 4, and the Dublin Library/Alameda County volunteering program. With all of these events in my life, I have mastered time management, and will make sure to dedicate and devote my time to the YAC, and will contribute to the committee in any way I possibly can. (This boxcan be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

5. How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* I will advocate for the activities and events the city is offering teens at school, and support these events through the use social media. I can promote the interaction aspect of events, accentuating how attending events you will let you gain new friendships and meet people you might have never chosen to talk with before. To me, the best part of going to any event is all of the socializing I can do, and everything I can learn from everyone else who goes to these events. As a member of the YAC, this would be the main way I would get other teens involved with activities and events in the city. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

6. Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting? If yes, what was the meeting date and what was the outcome of the item(s) you were interested in?* I have recently watched the February 7th meeting for City Council, along with a few other City Council meetings. I am interested about whether this yearâ€™s Splatter will be held at the new Don Biddle Park, since Splatter is one of Dublinâ€™s most important events and a lot of people are involved in making it happen. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

8. A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Upload Letter of Recommendation (required).*
2023 Letter of Recommendation-Cheng Ya Tan .pdf
Upload 2nd Letter of Recommendation (optional)
Choose File No file selected
Application materials must be submitted via this online application form. The application deadline is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 24, 2023. Applications or letters of recommendation will not be accepted after the deadline. 1357
March 7th, 2023
Re: Letter of Recommendation
To whom it may concern,
I have had the honor of being Cheng Ya Tan’s Dance Instructor at Dublin High School. Cheng Ya is a student in my Dance 1 class since the beginning of the 22-23 academic year. In addition she currently is a member of the DHS National Honor Society for Dance Arts (NHSDA) Dublin High School Chapter Club which is a nationally recognized program of the National Dance Education Organization created to recognize outstanding artistic merit, leadership, and academic achievement in students studying dance in public and private schools.

Cheng Ya is a wonderful student and it is a privilege to teach and choreograph for her. She is a very motivated and self-directed student who continually strives to improve her technique as a dancer and as a student both inside and outside the studio. She is dedicated to improving her craft, no matter if she is working on new choreography, learning a new dance genre, or rehearsing something she has danced for a long time. Through studying dance, Cheng Ya understands the value of hard work and dedication, as well as the benefits of having a long-term goal. She is open to feedback and applies it to her work, both immediately in the classroom or outside of class time on her own. In addition, she works very well with teachers and peers and brings a creative and professional outlook to group projects. Cheng Ya is very organized, has a positive attitude, has a great work ethic, and is often a student I can count on to either help out other students or answer questions about clarification of the dance curriculum. Cheng Ya is open to learning new dance styles that might be out of her comfort zone, and enjoys participating in the creative process of dance as an art form.

Cheng Ya brings a professionalism to every aspect of her work and interaction with others. Her education in studying dance as a part of her academics is positively forming her as an individual who has experience with being a team-member and an integral part of a community.. Cheng Ya’s strengths both as a dancer and a student give her the unique talent of continually growing as both an individual and an artist. I am positive she would be the ideal student for your program.

Please feel free to contact me if you need any additional information.

Sincerely,
Lauren Main de Lucia
www.dublinusd.org/dhs
1358

Application Submittal
Your completed application must be submitted via this online form. Application submittals must include the following items:

Questions
Please direct questions to Liz Eilliott, Recreation Supervisor, at 925-833-6645 or email First Name*
Fenny
Last Name*
Thakker
Street Address*
Print
Youth Advisory Committee Application 2023-2024 term - Submission #5645 Date Submitted: 3/8/2023
1359
City*
Dublin
State*
California
Zip*
94568
Email Address*
Phone Number*
What school will you attend in the 2023-2024 school year?* Dublin High School
What grade will you be in during the 2023-2024 school year?* 9th

1. Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* I wish to be a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee because I believe that all teens' voices should be heard and that everyone in the community should feel like they have a place to belong. As a member of this committee, I can get a chance provide feedback and suggestions on conflicts that directly affect teens in my community, such as education, safety, and health, all while gaining valuable experience in leadership and decision-making. By joining this committee I can also expand on my public speaking, teamwork, and problem solving skills while working with like-minded peers. Joining this Youth Advisory Committee would be a rewarding experience that can help me make a huge difference in my community and grow as a person and leader.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

2. What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* I believe I have the essential skills to make me a strong candidate for the Dublin Youth Advisory Committee. Strong communication and listening skills are quite essential to effectively convey ideas and collaborate with other members. I am very open minded and flexible to feedback which demonstrates the will to actively work and learn towards a common goal. I believe that I have a strong work ethic and am able to take ownership of projects that contribute meaningfully to the committee's efforts in community. I have always had a strong passion for making some sort of positive impact in my community, whether it be big or small, and I think this drive can help me be successful in my journey as a strong candidate for this advisory committee. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

3. What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC could address these issues?*
Teens in Dublin today face a spectrum of challenges and issues that can have a major impact on their lives and how they interact. These can include mental health challenges such as anxiety or depression, pressures relates to social media and relationships, substance use, and possible barriers to education opportunities. This youth advisory committee can play an important role in addressing these issues by providing a safe space for teens to express their concerns and ideas. This committee could work with mental health professionals to develop resources and support networks to help teens that are struggling. They could organize events or campaigns to promote positive behavior and healthy habits. Overall, a youth advisory committee has the potential to make a significant impact on teens lives by addressing issues that matter most to them. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)
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4. What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2023-2024 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities?* Over the course of the 2023-2024 school year I hope to join my school's badminton or swim team so I can improve on my skills and develop valuable teamwork and leadership skills. I am aware that being on one, or more teams requires a great deal of devoted time, but if I manage my time efficiently, I will be able to stay on track with all meetings and activities. I also volunteer at my temple every Sunday because I wish to give back to the community in some way and this volunteering really helps me achieve that goal. I do hope that I can involve myself in community as much as possible and being on these teams will not conflict with any major events or meetings.
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5. How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* If I were on the youth advisory committee, I would have a couple ways to get other teens involved in community events and charitable activities. My main option would to advertise on social media platforms and other digital tools to spread awareness and promote upcoming events among teens. Since most teens are on social media, this way would get more young people aware of these events and opportunities. I would mainly focus on trying to create events and activities that are of interest to a diverse range of people, and ensuring that there is something that everyone can get involved with. Drawing the attention of young teens is very important, and once that is achieved, you can spread the message to new teens along the way. My approach would most be to create a sense of enthusiasm for community involvement and showing teens they can make a big difference and how to have some fun while doing it.
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6. Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting? If yes, what was the meeting date and what was the outcome of the item(s) you were interested in?* I have not recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission meeting. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

8. A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Upload Letter of Recommendation (required).*
Fenny LOR - Google Docs.pdf
Upload 2nd Letter of Recommendation (optional)
Choose File No file selected
Application materials must be submitted via this online application form. The application deadline is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 24, 2023. Applications or letters of recommendation will not be accepted after the deadline. 1361
March 7, 2023
To Whom It May Concern,
I am wring this leer to give my recommendaon for Fenny Thakker to be a representave on the Dublin Youth Advisory Commiee. Fenny is an 8th grader at Wells Middle School and an exceponal student. Fenny demonstrates exemplary cizenship skills by following the Wells Way of being respecul, responsible, and ready to learn.

Fenny consistently maintains a 4.0 Grade Point Average. On top of obtaining excellent grades, Fenny volunteers oen for various acvies and spends her personal me giving to others. Fenny also placed in the top 3 in our School Spelling Bee two years in a row. This shows dedicaon and a drive to work hard in not only self-improvement and growth but also in service to community. Fenny is an acve member of our Leadership class. This elecve class encourages students to be leaders on campus and is a course for creave, iniave taking, and enthusiasc students who demonstrate hard work and responsibility with the desire to have a posive impact on the Wells community.

Fenny is a delighul student who is respecul, polite, and responsible. Fenny would be an asset to the Youth Advisory Commiee and a benefit to the Dublin community. It is my pleasure to be recommending Fenny for this posion and I know that Fenny will far exceed your expectaons.

If addional informaon is required, please feel free to contact me at Sincerely,
Anushe Khabba
Anusheh Khabbaz
Assistant Principal
Wells Middle School
1362

Application Submittal
Your completed application must be submitted via this online form. Application submittals must include the following items:

Questions
Please direct questions to Liz Eilliott, Recreation Supervisor, at 925-833-6645 or email First Name*
Srishti
Last Name*
Vadya
Street Address*
Print
Youth Advisory Committee Application 2023-2024 term - Submission #5809 Date Submitted: 3/24/2023
1363
City*
Dublin
State*
CA
Zip*
94568
Email Address*
Phone Number*
What school will you attend in the 2023-2024 school year?* Notre Dame High School
What grade will you be in during the 2023-2024 school year?* 12 1. Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* My family and I moved to Dublin at the age of 8, in 2014. Seven years later I feel really lucky to call this town home. From our cultural diversity to our innovative community members, I have found a sense of belonging to my neighborhood and this city.

Walking my dogs around Emerald Glen Park with my little brother, attending school at Amador Elementary, and even learning how to drive throughout Dublin's bustling roads have all been very important parts of my life, all centered around this city. Next year, I will be moving away from Dublin and to college. Staying back, however, will be my 12 year old brother. As he and his friends prepare to have the same experiences that I had as a teenager growing up in Dublin, I want to ensure that he will have the opportunity to flourish, to be safe, and to have as much fun as I did. As this city continues to grow, it is important to have the perspective of someone who was raised here. I believe that I will be able to use my leadership skills and my passion for making this city a better place to contribute to the Youth Advisory Committee and their role in Dublin's overall welfare. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

2. What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* As an active member in various leadership opportunities on and off campus, I have been able to grow my skills as a collaborator, public speaker, and innovator. I have been a member of my schools Associated Student Board for 3 years now, as a Student Life Commissioner. Through this position, I created a process for change, and have implemented various initiatives, such as a campus-wide composting programs and dress code updates. Additionally, I met with the Board of Directors to overturn outdated policies. I have also been my school's Medical Club Vice President for 3 years, where I have created curriculum for students and founded the Health Occupation Students of America Chapter. I also have a huge passion for community involvement. Whether it is volunteering at senior centers, emergency departments, or tutoring young children from underrepresented communities, I am a huge advocate for engagement, and would love to exemplify this as a member of the YAC.
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3. What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC could address these issues?*
An issue that I see teens in Dublin dealing with is lack of connectivity with their neighborhoods and community members. One of the strengths of our community is our intense diversity of backgrounds and interests. However, one setback that comes with this is difficulties in finding individuals with shared interests. This can result in feelings of alienation and disconnect with community. I think that Dublin's YAC should address this issue by creating spaces for individuals of common passions to connect. This can be in the form of creating teen-interest groups, setting up activities at our local parks, and planning mixers for teens to interact!
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4. What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2023-2024 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities?* During the school year, I will be playing on my school's golf team, volunteering at a local hospital, and involved with some research programs. I will be able to devote time for YAC meetings, and dedicate a good amount of effort to involvement with events.
(This boxcan be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

5. How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* I strongly believe that publicity is a very important aspect of involvement, and would ensure teen participation. In order to attract attention for community events, I would work to connect with the Student Governments at Dublin High School and Fallon/Wells Middle Schools to help advertise. Additionally, using my leadership and connection skills, I would strive to engage members of my immediate community and encourage them to continue to spread the word. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

6. Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting? If yes, what was the meeting date and what was the outcome of the item(s) you were interested in?* I have not had the opportunity to attend a recent meeting, but have been following YAC agendas. I have been interested in the Hackathon, and look forward to seeing the outcome as well as ideas for involvement. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

8. A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Upload Letter of Recommendation (required).*
PartneRite-Youth Voluntereeing-Shristi Vadya.pdf
Upload 2nd Letter of Recommendation (optional)
Choose File No file selected
Application materials must be submitted via this online application form. The application deadline is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 24, 2023. Applications or letters of recommendation will not be accepted after the deadline. 1365
1366

Application Submittal
Your completed application must be submitted via this online form. Application submittals must include the following items:

Questions
Please direct questions to Liz Eilliott, Recreation Supervisor, at 925-833-6645 or email First Name*
Rajveer
Last Name*
Vaichal
Street Address*
Print
Youth Advisory Committee Application 2023-2024 term - Submission #5759 Date Submitted: 3/23/2023
1367
City*
Dublin
State*
California
Zip*
94568
Email Address*
Phone Number*
What school will you attend in the 2023-2024 school year?* dublin high school
What grade will you be in during the 2023-2024 school year?* sophomore year

1. Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* I want to become a member of the Dublin youth committee because I would like to help my city out in any way possible. I feel this is the most ideal and effective way of helping because I have so many ideas on what we as a youth committee can do to help our community. I have also done boy scouts where there are merit badges (Citizenship in the community and Society) where for example they give good help when thinking about the things to do in the community to improve the community as a whole.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

2. What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* I have leadership skills that I got from boy scouts by being a Patrol Leader to a lot of the scouts by helping them in advancement and being one of the key leaders during campouts. I also have critical thinking skills from basketball and perseverance due to my determination to not lose and to accomplish everything I set out to do. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

3. What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC could address these issues?*
There are serious issues with teens like depression and vaping. A potential strategy to counteract teens with depression is to have closed sessions with counselors that are confidential and provide community empathy and support 1 on 1. For vaping, we can do a drive where if you turn in a vape the council will give some sort of benefit that way we can keep vaping out of the community.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

4. What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2023-2024 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities?* I am currently involved in Dublin High School Basketball, Boy Scouts, CSF, and ISA(Indian student association). I will be able to devote quality to YAC to address community issues.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)
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5. How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* I would try to do fun events for high schoolers that they would like, such as sports competitions, fairs, and fundraisers. I have inspired many students to join Boy Scouts and helped them to progress. Also, I have helped many of my friends to start playing basketball, which will help in improving physical activity and keeping away from screen time, etc. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

6. Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting? If yes, what was the meeting date and what was the outcome of the item(s) you were interested in?* No, I have not recently attended a meeting. However a couple of months back I attended a city council meeting as part of the Boy Scouts requirement and it was a great experience. That inspired me to apply for YAC as I can influence and initiate a change.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

8. A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Upload Letter of Recommendation (required).*
Raj VaichalRecommendation.pdf
Upload 2nd Letter of Recommendation (optional)
Scan Mar 23, 2023.pdf
Application materials must be submitted via this online application form. The application deadline is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 24, 2023. Applications or letters of recommendation will not be accepted after the deadline. 1369
March 23, 2023
To Whom It May Concern,
My name is Ada Cowan and I am proud to offer my recommendation of Raj Vaichal who I have had the pleasure to teach since August of 2022 at Dublin High School.

During my relationship with Raj I have experienced an individual who is punctual, stays on task and carries himself in a polite, respectable manner. Additionally, Raj is personable, helpful and has aiways presented himself with level headedness and grace.

If you have any requests or questions do not hesitate to contact me.

Kind Regards,
Ada Cowan
Spanish Teacher I Co Dept Chair
Wortd Languages Department
Dublin High School
1370
Troop , Pleasanton, California
March 22, 2023
To Whom It May Concern:

It is my pleasure to provide this recommendation for Rajveer Vaichal. I am the former Scoutmaster and a current Assistant Scoutmaster for Troop of Pleasanton, of which Raj is an active participant. I’d like to share my observations of the values that best exemplify Raj’s interests and character, and how these are applicable to the role of Youth Advisory Committee Member for the city of Dublin. The application states that the committee is looking for enthusiastic students that are interested in representing the young people of Dublin, learning how local government works and planning events that benefit the community.

The Scouting program has specific objectives that are referred to as the “Aims of Scouting.” They are character development, leadership development, citizenship training, and personal fitness. Raj is now a Life Scout (one rank below Eagle) and has been committed to the program for the last four years with our troop and another two years with a Dublin Pack. During that time, he has taken part in many activities that lead him to understand and embrace those Aims. He has First Aid skills, knows how to respond in an emergency situation, and has an appreciation of what it means to be a citizen within the context of his community, nation and the world. He has been involved in many great outdoor activities and understands how to make fitness fun. He has served in several leadership roles already, such as leading campouts and as the first Patrol Leader for a newly formed patrol. His role was to plan all of the details of the patrols creation and to lead his peers at camps, meetings, and in their advancement.

Raj understands the value of giving back to his community. In Scouting language, we call this the habit of “Doing a Good Turn Daily.” He has participated in many hours of service in our community through a number of projects in which the troop supports such as Scouting for Food (one of the nation’s largest single day food drives) and many conservation projects. Whether performing fuels reductions at a local camp or assisting with a Kids against Hunger project, he has constructively used his time to improve the environment, maintain the beauty of our surroundings and help people he hasn’t even met.

In conclusion, Raj exemplifies those values that make Scouting a force for good in our culture. The values and capabilities that he has already demonstrated lead me to conclude that he will be a highly effective, principled leader in all his pursuits. I strongly recommend Rajveer Vaichal for inclusion in the Dublin Youth Advisory Committee.

Sincerely,
James R. McMillin
Assistant Scoutmaster
Troop , Pleasanton, CA
1371

Application Submittal
Your completed application must be submitted via this online form. Application submittals must include the following items:

Questions
Please direct questions to Liz Eilliott, Recreation Supervisor, at 925-833-6645 or email First Name*
Neha
Last Name*
Varughese
Street Address*
Print
Youth Advisory Committee Application 2023-2024 term - Submission #5816 Date Submitted: 3/24/2023
1372
City*
Dublin
State*
CA
Zip*
94568
Email Address*
Phone Number*
What school will you attend in the 2023-2024 school year?* Dublin High School
What grade will you be in during the 2023-2024 school year?* 11 1. Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* I want to become a member of the YAC to be a representative of the youth in Dublin. I have been living in Dublin for 9 years and have fallen in love with the city. As a way to give back to the youth and this community, I want to become a member to ensure that all voices are heard to further develop this city to become better. As a committee member I would like to bring to attention many issues that we are facing in this community and take steps to solve them. To start, I would like to bring awareness to the lack of gender equity in sports at the Dublin schools. At Dublin High school, this is very evident. The boys' teams are advertised and promoted more while the girls' teams are shoved under the rug. The boys' games are announced in the school announcements, showcased in our video bulletin, and posted on the instagram. The amount of people who show up, including the school staff, to boys' games compared to girls' games is a clear indication of the partiality that is prevalent in sports at Dublin High School. Secondly, I would like to bring up mental health. Mental health is an issue I see most commonly in teens.

Due to the academically driven nature of this community, sometimes mental health is pushed to the side and is given less importance. I have always believed that both physical and mental health are equally important would want to be able to give teens more resources to deal with any stress or pressures they may be going through. For example, introducing teen clinics at the middle school and high schools gives students a way to schedule and receive professional help for anything they may be struggling with and also have a place to stay if the pressures of their life are becoming too intense. lastly, having this clinic will take steps towards stigmatizing receiving help for mental health. I would also like to speak about celebrating the diversity in Dublin with the help of the youth. As a city, we are extremely lucky to be as diverse as we are and I believe it would be great if we encouraged the youth to celebrate this diversity. Currently, cottonwood creek holds a multicultural festival every year to celebrate the many cultures that make up the school. I believe that Dublin should hold a cultural festival where the students can show off their cultures.
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2. What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* I am hardworking and perseverant, I can lead a group and delegate work accordingly, and I work well in groups and strive to listen to all others around me.These skills are demonstrated through my many leadership roles that I've had throughout the years. I've always made it my goal to step up and make sure that the job has been done. When others may hesitate I've been the first to raise my hand or divide up roles between the group, making sure that each person has an equal amount of work on the project. This can be observed through my time as the president of the Music Association at Cottonwood Creek School. This school had just opened up two years ago and the task to lead a student-led Music Association required a lot of work and time.

In order to have successful programs and ensure that our association truly represented the students, I stepped up and made sure to delegate work to my fellow officers. This was to make the club successful in its first year and set a groundwork for coming years to have an example to follow. Secondly, one of the skills that I possess that would be perfect for this committee is my ability to listen to others and work well in groups. I I have always believed that a project always works well when multiple heads are put together. This provides this project or leadership team with multiple perspectives and inputs, ones that other people in the group may not have been able to see. Even if their morals or ideas conflict with mine, I make it my goal to try and work out a compromise and see from their perspective as well. As freshman delegate of HOSA, I represented the freshman class and as a result I needed to have the skills to listen and hear what my class wanted to be implemented into this club. As a member of this committee, we are representing the youth of Dublin and I am confident that I will be able to do that. Lastly, my hard work and perseverance make me a great candidate for this committee. Whenever I receive a project, whether in school or in the club that I'm a part of, I never rest until the work is done. I put in the time, dedication and work it will take in order for this project to be successful. If there are ever any conflicts or obstacles in my work, I anticipate and work through them until I have finished.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

3. What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC could address these issues?*
Currently, teens are dealing with mental health struggles and feeling represented in community areas. Since Dublin is a very academically driven community it can be difficult for teens to speak up about mental health struggles and feel like they're heard. To constantly outperform others in the community can cause students to internalize their issues and constantly abandon their mental health, which then affects their physical health. YAC can address this issue by introducing teen clinics into middle and high schools. These clinics will allow students to make appointments with medical professionals, confidentially, without outside pressure. We can also hold events speaking about mental health and hold workshops on how to deal with stress and anxiety.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

4. What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2023-2024 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities?* I will be apart of the Varsity Dance Team, Speech and Debate team, and HOSA. (This boxcan be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

5. How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* I would be able to get other teens involved by partnering with clubs at the high school and holding events with them. I would also get more teens involved by advertising on social media sites and in schools. Lastly, we could also give teens service hours for attending the events and include food/rewards for attending. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

6. Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting? If yes, what was the meeting date and what was the outcome of the item(s) you were interested in?* No I have not.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

8. A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Upload Letter of Recommendation (required).*
2023 Neha - Letter of Recommendation .pdf
Upload 2nd Letter of Recommendation (optional)
Choose File No file selected
Application materials must be submitted via this online application form. The application deadline is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 24, 2023. Applications or letters of recommendation will not be accepted after the deadline. 1375

COTTONWOOD CREEK SCHOOL
DUBLIN UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT Lorianne R. Ventura, Ed.D.

Principal
March 20th, 2023
To the Dublin Youth Advisory Committee Selection Team:

My name is Jasper Tran and I am the Music Director at Cottonwood Creek School (CCS) in Dublin, CA.

I am also the new Music Director for Emerald High School which is the Dublin Unified School District's second comprehensive high school. I am writing to recommend Neha Varghese for City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee.

Cottonwood Creek School opened in 2018 with a minimal music program which resulted in the absence of extracurricular activities. During her first two years at CCS, she has built our student leadership program from the ground up. She stepped up and was voted by her peers to become the inaugural president of our student leadership team. She worked independently to write bylaws, create educational lessons for students, and promoted equity for underrepresented students. This was all done when our community was under shelter in place and we were participating in virtual learning.

Neha was also a member of our inaugural color guard team and is currently in the Dublin High School Varsity Dance Team. She has committed to being a coach for Emerald High School to build a strong dance and guard program for students in our attendance area for the upcoming school year.

Her work ethic and dedication to our program exemplifies the CCS mission statement and the best of our city. I can not think of anyone more deserving of being in the YAC and I firmly believe she is an exceptional candidate for your organization.

If you have further questions, please feel free to contact me at .

Sincerely,
Jasper Tran
Music Director, Cottonwood Creek School
Music Director, Emerald High School
2400 Central Parkway • Dublin • California 94568 • (925) 833-3333 • Fax (925) 833-3711 1376

Application Submittal
Your completed application must be submitted via this online form. Application submittals must include the following items:

Questions
Please direct questions to Liz Eilliott, Recreation Supervisor, at 925-833-6645 or email First Name*
Akhil
Last Name*
Venkatesh
Street Address*
Print
Youth Advisory Committee Application 2023-2024 term - Submission #5829 Date Submitted: 3/24/2023
1377
City*
Dublin
State*
CA
Zip*
94568
Email Address*
Phone Number*
What school will you attend in the 2023-2024 school year?* Dublin High School
What grade will you be in during the 2023-2024 school year?* 10 1. Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* I want to become a member of the Dublin Youth Advisory Committee because I want to help solve some of the issues Dublin youth are struggling with today through my leadership skills, initiatives and new project ideas. Dublin has been my home since I was in 2nd grade and I absolutely love this city. Today's youth are tomorrow's leaders and can help shape the direction of the city which can help current and future generations of youth. I would love to be a part of that team that makes this happen through various community projects and personal involvement. I have a strong sense of civic duty that my parents have instilled in me and my brother since we were young and we believe in giving back to the community in many ways possible. So to summarize in a nutshell, I want to give back to Dublin since Dublin has given me a lot and I believe YAC would be a fantastic platform for me to do this.
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2. What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?*

1. I possess several skills that would make me a great candidate for the YAC. I am routinely picked as the captain of my national cricket team because my coaches trust my leadership potential. I work very well in teams and know how to productively engage with not just peers but also adults. 2. I often come up with creative ideas to solve problems for example I sent an idea to Assembly member Rebecca Bauer-Kahan for a new Assembly bill about harvesting rainwater especially when we have excess rain and storing it creatively to be used later during wildfire season. 3. I have a good sense of humor and I am easy to get along with 4. I take my responsibilities seriously. Once I am committed to a cause, I make sure I spend enough time to fulfill my commitments. 5. I am a competitive chess player who has won a lot of awards in chess, a game which involves strategic thinking and quick decision making abilities. 6. I am very driven to succeed and was recognized by the Patch as a star student athlete in November of last year
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3. What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC could address these issues?*
While a lot of efforts have gone into creating mental health programs, I think there is room for more because many kids today are really lonely and struggling to make friends. This is why I applied to the prestigious Springtide Research Institute and got selected as one of their ambassadors (www.springtideresearch.org). I am helping shape their research efforts and nationwide community engagement. I am tasked with creating and curating original content for their blogs and podcasts. I can work with Dublin City council and part of the YAC team and be a bridge to collaborate. Also, some of the problems I have noticed at school, in sport teams, and other groups are teens experiencing stress and anxiety. Anxiety is an epidemic today that can result from several things, namely academic pressure, social pressure, environment, etc. YAC is helping create a safe space where teens who are depressed/anxious can feel comfortable to discuss their problems. I can add value to this by reaching out to professional yoga and meditation schools and enable them offer to free programs. I have already had some conversations with experienced yoga teachers who are interested in offering free programs to Dublin youth. Another problem teens are facing is drug use/vaping. Addiction is a very serious and ongoing issue that needs to be addressed by programs that spread awareness and are led by the Dublin Youth. The presentations can be integrated in schools, as a part of after school clubs and during city run events like Splatter.
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4. What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2023-2024 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities?* I will be involved in sports, mainly cricket, a year-long sport I am very passionate about and have been pursuing since I was 7 years old. I am part of a national team that involves commitment towards coaching and games. As a Springtide Ambassador, I will be working with a select cohort of people cultivating research projects on mental health and creating fresh content. I also volunteer from time to time to help kids with Special needs with their social activities. I will have sufficient time to devote to the Youth Advisory Committee since I multi-task well and have some free time. If there is an overlap with one of my extracurriculars, YAC would be my priority. (This boxcan be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

5. How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* To get Dublin teens involved I would use word of mouth, social media channels and friends and family groups in the city to spread the word about city sponsored activities. I would also network during after school club meetings and seek their involvement. Dublin is home to many different faith and cultural groups and there are so many different cultural events hosted periodically and these are great opportunities to broadcast events. I would also contact the editors of my high schoolâ€™s publication to write an article about what YAC is, how it is making a difference and how teens can be involved in the initiatives.

Dublin Patch is great about informing the Dublin community about events and activities and I would seek of help of other neighborhood media publications as well.
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6. Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting? If yes, what was the meeting date and what was the outcome of the item(s) you were interested in?* Yes, I attended a City council meeting in October 2022 and was one of the youth speakers on Diwali when the city issued a Proclamation acknowledging the biggest Hindu festival. It was a proud moment for me and my community to witness this recognition by our city council that embraces diversity. I have attended other Dublin city council meetings in the past to ask for equitable options for Dublin youth for sports cages and cricket facilities to be built and the Dublin council listened and built Fallon sports park new phase.
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8. A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Upload Letter of Recommendation (required).*
YAC Recommendation Letter.pdf
1379
Upload 2nd Letter of Recommendation (optional)
Choose File No file selected
Application materials must be submitted via this online application form. The application deadline is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 24, 2023. Applications or letters of recommendation will not be accepted after the deadline. 1380
6AY Ae€a
rffif
HP"
March 23,2023
Dear Dublin city staffand council members,
This is a recommendation letter for Akhil Venkatesh, who is currently a 9th grader attending Dublin High School. Akhil has been an active member of our organization, Major League Cricket Academy (MLCA) since 2018 and has been playing competitive cricket for the last 8 years. As the Managing Director of the Academy that cunently has over 300 youth playing in 7 cities across Northern Califomia, I have knorn Akhil for several yffirs as a very passionate, hardworking, and focused cricket player. Prior to MLCA, I was the head coach of East Bay Youth Gricket Association br 3 years, so I have had the opportunity to mentor and groom hundreds of youth players. I would highly recommend Akhil for the Youth Advisory Committee position within the crty of Dublin for the following reasons.

His passion comes through clearly in the activities he chooses to participate in. He is a committed team player and has captained his team to several toumament victories. He takes his responsibilities seriously and is well liked by his teammates. Akhil's youth cricket team won the MLCA Nationalchampionship in the u 1 5 age group in 2021 and won two out three of the championship tournaments in 2022. Akhil has won several individual national awards consistently over the years and recognitions for fielding, wicket keeping and batting. He was part of the MLC Jr. Championships Chairman's Honors list in 2021 and2022 where he was recognized for being amongst the Top 5olo batters in the country out of 400+ players. He is routinely ranked among the top players in the U.S. in his age category.

These national toumaments have brought the best of the best teams from all over the United States.

Being a key member of these teams, making good decisions and acting on those decisions in a timely way and demonstrating leadership abilities play a role in sucoess and these are some reasons why I feel that he would make valuable contributions to the youth Advisory team and be an asset. Akhil has excellent ideas, is a good speaker and can have eloquent discussions with his team. He has shown a lot of interest in community service and has been contributing his time volunteering fur several causes including participating in meetings to advocate for cricket facilities and equity for Bay Area youth. lf chosen to be a part of the Youth Advisory commiftee, ! am confident that he will fulfill his duties and exceed expectations as a valuable member.
lf you need more inbrmation, please don't hesitate to react me by email at prem@majorleaguecricket. com.

Sincerely
)
Prem Suri
Managing Director, Major League Cricket Academy
1381

Application Submittal
Your completed application must be submitted via this online form. Application submittals must include the following items:

Questions
Please direct questions to Liz Eilliott, Recreation Supervisor, at 925-833-6645 or email First Name*
Yash
Last Name*
Verma
Street Address*
Print
Youth Advisory Committee Application 2023-2024 term - Submission #5731 Date Submitted: 3/22/2023
1382
City*
Dublin
State*
CA
Zip*
94568
Email Address*
Phone Number*
What school will you attend in the 2023-2024 school year?* Wells Middle school
What grade will you be in during the 2023-2024 school year?* 8th Grade

1. Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* I want to be in part of the Dublin Youth Committee for several reasons. â€¢ To give a different perspective towards the advisory committee â€¢ Do become part of the decisions for the committee â€¢ I would like to give back the society to work towards the people.
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2. What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* The skills I possess are my leadership qualities at my school since I am a part of my school's Leadership. I work well in a team rather than alone.
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3. What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC could address these issues?*
I believe that the most if the teens are struggling with : â€¢ Depression and Anxiety â€¢ Bullying â€¢ Drug and Alcohol use Teens today struggle more with interpersonal relationships than any previous generations. Youth Committees can play an essential role in addressing bullying and depression among young people.By creating awareness, building support networks, advocating for change, and providing resources, they can help young people overcome these challenges and live healthier happier lives.
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4. What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2023-2024 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities?* I am currently involved in my school's Marching Band. I am also part of Boy Scouts and my rank is First Class. I'm a part of my School's Leadership Committee. I also a pretty good athlete. I will be able to support YAC and will be able to devote time for the committee.
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5. How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* I would get other teens involved in the community by â€¢ Promoting the events either by organizing the fun activities like games or cultural activities ,raffle ,posters etc.
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6. Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting? If yes, what was the meeting date and what was the outcome of the item(s) you were interested in?* No I have not attended any meeting yet.
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8. A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Upload Letter of Recommendation (required).*
Yash LOR (1).pdf
Upload 2nd Letter of Recommendation (optional)
Choose File No file selected
Application materials must be submitted via this online application form. The application deadline is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 24, 2023. Applications or letters of recommendation will not be accepted after the deadline. 1384
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Application Submittal
Your completed application must be submitted via this online form. Application submittals must include the following items:

Questions
Please direct questions to Liz Eilliott, Recreation Supervisor, at 925-833-6645 or email First Name*
Rohan
Last Name*
Vij
Street Address*
Print
Youth Advisory Committee Application 2023-2024 term - Submission #5797 Date Submitted: 3/24/2023
1386
City*
Dublin
State*
California
Zip*
94568
Email Address*
Phone Number*
What school will you attend in the 2023-2024 school year?* Dublin High School
What grade will you be in during the 2023-2024 school year?* 11 1. Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* I want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Council because I want to share my voice with the rest of Dublin. I bring a unique perspective to a multitude of problems with my diverse background in business, ethical data science, and my love of the outdoors. Ever since I went to my first Emerald Glen Campout, my mind has been racing with ideas on what other activities the city could host - a community bike ride around Dublin, large communal gardens, or a nature walk around Camp Parks. YAC is the perfect opportunity for me to voice my thoughts on city policy, and also run beneficial programs with the support of the city. Dublin's name - the New American Backyard - has always been a name I am proud to share with anyone visiting my city. I take pride in how Dublin has changed and grown during the 14 years I have lived here - seeing it year after year on California's list of top-growing cities always invokes a feeling of pride within me. With parents who run a small ecommerce business, I will be able to encourage the youth of Dublin to entertain an entrepreneurial mindset and develop programs in the city for aspiring entrepreneurs to collaborate. As a Boy Scout, I will develop outdoor programs for the youth of the city to address mental health issues and promote community cohesion. Lastly, as a data ethics advocate, I will impact the future of AI-based tools in our education system and push forward policy-making on the topic. I hope that as a member of the YAC, I will be able to bring our community together by leading outdoor programs and demonstrate the progressiveness of our city to the rest of the Bay Area.
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2. What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* YAC should be a forum of community leaders, but also a forum of listeners. As someone who has led an organization but is also a member of communal councils for some, I know how to lead a discussion without dominating it. From working with real startups, I have also gained invaluable experience in mastering online communication, which has helped me build a regimen of checking my email, LinkedIn, Slack, and other platforms constantly throughout the day. This skill will prove invaluable in Dublin's YAC, as most of the organizational responsibilities of the members are done outside of the scheduled meetings. Aside from my aforementioned communication and leadership skills, I am an open-minded individual, which primarily stems from collaborative interactions in other councils or competitions. Whether it be constructing a competition to encourage students to ponder the ethical use of data or participating in international hackathons, I always view solutions with a holistic and objective approach. This would allow me to be a collaborative but insightful member of the YAC. Last, but certainly not least, my passion for helping others knows no bounds. While this is less of a skill and more of a personal characteristic, I believe that it is one of the most important reasons why I want to join the YAC. A simple "thank you" can make my week, which is why I love helping other people so much. My dopamine response to helping other people make it borderline addicting, driving my never-ending passion for the simple phrase "thank you."
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3. What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC could address these issues?*
From my perspective, the biggest problems teens are dealing currently dealing with are stress and the ethical clash of using technology to assist in their academic careers. I have seen firsthand how the topic of stress has become more of an annoyance than a beneficial thing to talk about to students, and I believe this is because we only talk about stress - we do not do much to solve it. This is extremely detrimental to the mental health of students because it perpetuates the narrative that stress is inevitable and not avoidable. By offering solutions to stress in tandem, we can shift this thought process and give students some source of hope about alleviating their stress. When I first joined Boy Scouts at the beginning of the year, I suffered from burnout and stress every single weekend. The camping trips I went on enlightened me with a whole new sense of relief - the chance to put my homework out of my mind and focus on nature was the most therapeutic experience I have ever had. I believe that as a city, we need to take initiatives that involve more doing and less talking about mental health. The annual Emerald Glen campout is nostalgic to me and I believe that it is a great initiative that the city undertakes year after year. In YAC, we could expand the initiative on a smaller scale by running programs for the youth to connect to nature and for them to view it as a period of reducing tension. I always loved the name "the Great American Backyard" for Dublin - I want us to use that to help our youth. Another more recent problem students have been dealing with is the dilemma of using AI-powered tools (i.e ChatGPT) in their academic work. As a competition council member at DataEthics4All, I have extensive experience dealing with the ethical and moral implications of ChatGPT. At the YAC, I hope to address this issue with each other as well as school administrators to determine whether or not we will use AI as a tool or ban it entirely. AI technology is advancing so fast that it is crucial for us to make a decision, but with a holistic, ethical, and objective approach to the problem. As a member of YAC, I could facilitate the conversation with my prior experience so we can come to a conclusion rapidly before AI tools proliferate school culture as a whole.
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4. What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2023-2024 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities?* During the 2023-2024 school year, I will be in a robotics club, a council member of a data ethics nonprofit organization, running my own company to provide free enterprise business tools to small businesses, and a member of Boy Scout Troop 939. I always have my entire week planned out, so I will be able to attend the monthly meetings. I will also have time to schedule independent meetings with council members or city officials if needed - as well as plenty of time to work on projects asynchronously. The aforementioned activities that I am in will also build upon my experience and contributions to the YAC, allowing me to bring novel perspectives about academic data ethics and outdoor activities at every meeting. (This boxcan be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

5. How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* As a member of the YAC, I would tackle promoting participation through healthy competition. At Dublin High School, each graduating year is encouraged to participate in activities in order to gain points for their class. This creates healthy competition between the classes, and overall inherently increases the school spirit of all of us. If a similar system could be implemented on a city level, participation would surely increase. Another way in which participants could be increased is through social media.

My parents run an online e-commerce business in Dublin, and I have seen firsthand how using social media through the lens of a normal user has impacted their business - the same could be applied to Dublin. An alternate account run by YAC members solely to appeal to Dublin's youth could be more informal and more interactive with the community, bringing them and their identity closer to the city as a whole.
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6. Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting? If yes, what was the meeting date and what was the outcome of the item(s) you were interested in?* No, but I did attend "Battle of the Bands" several years ago, and it has played a significant role in motivating me to apply for the YAC.
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8. A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place. 1388
Upload Letter of Recommendation (required).*
RohanVij.pdf
Upload 2nd Letter of Recommendation (optional)
RohanVij.pdf
Application materials must be submitted via this online application form. The application deadline is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 24, 2023. Applications or letters of recommendation will not be accepted after the deadline. 1389
March 23, 2023
Dear Selection Committee,
It is with great pleasure that I recommend Rohan Vij for consideration to join Dublin's Youth Advisory Council. I have the honor of teaching Rohan during his sophomore year at Dublin High School as his English teacher. During this time, I have witnessed Rohan’s dedication to academic excellence, his extra curricular activities, and helping his peers in the classroom.

Rohan is a hardworking student who does not let other students or difficult situations distract him or prevent him from achieving his goals. He is an incredibly driven individual and does not shy away from asking for help when necessary. Rohan shows empathy for others in collaborative work; his willingness to step up as a leader, and at the same time, his willingness to let others lead is readily apparent in class. Rohan is also an active member of his community and has served as president for ACE Coding Dublin, works as a software engineer for Shiporium, is a current council member of DataEthics4All, and also an active Boy Scout.

It is with great confidence that I recommend Rohan to Dublin's Youth Advisory Council. From my time spent with Rohan, I learned that he is determined and engaged in his own learning and goals. Rohan would bring his unique perspective and hopes to address ethical issues regarding AI in our educational community, solve issues regarding mental health by a rapprochement to nature, and further develop Dublin's small business culture through the use of technology. In this light, Rohan shows a tremendous amount of initiative and personal drive to succeed. He is self-driven and motivated to meet his goals and I believe this is a quality that will serve him well as a member of the Youth Advisory Council. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me via email at
Sincerely,
Faith Dionida, Ph.D.

English Department Chair & English Teacher
Dublin High School
www.dublinusd.org/dhs
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DUBLIN HIGH SCHOOL
2017 GOLD RIBBON SCHOOL
8151 Village Parkway, Dublin, CA 94568 925-833- 3300 FAX 925-833- 3322 Maureen Byrne, Principal Whitney Dwyer, Assistant Principal Diane Santamorena, Assistant Principal Lenni Velez, Assistant Principal Kevin Cushing, Assistant Principal Andrew Waranoff, Assistant Principal Lisa Diaconis, Assistant Principal
March 23, 2023
City of Dublin
Dublin Youth Advisory Council,
It is with great honor and pleasure that I recommend Rohan VIj as a highly qualified applicant to your program. I have had the pleasure to watch Rohan sharpen his abilities as a student and individual; he is in my Spanish 3 class, where he stands out as one of my most exceptional students. Rohan is an intensely hardworking, intellectual, curious, and adaptive young man. He has grown quite comfortable in his own skin, and I can see this higher level of confidence exude in and outside of school.

Being a very mature, driven individual, Rohan has always maintained a deep passion towards academics. He is a strong student with solid grades in multiple subjects, including Spanish. In my classes, I’ve found Rohan to be very curious towards the learning process, making conceptual understanding his number one priority. He consistently asks questions and adds to our class discussions. Rohan has also shown himself to take initiative, finding himself ahead of the learning curve. He always turns in assignments on time, actively participated and spoke in the target language. I’m often pleasantly surprised by his work in class, tackling difficult subjects in a profoundly systematic, analytical manner.

Moreover, Rohan’s strength of character and personality make him a stand-out student. In group settings, Rohan is able to take initiative, adapt, build a team, and carefully lay out the goals that must be achieved within a certain time span. He ensures that his team spends time productively and proactively, seeking out any information necessary to produce high-quality work. At the same time, he’s also shown himself as genuinely responsible and considerate. It’s clear that he is an active listener, and makes sure to value each of his peer’s voices.

What impresses me even more, and further makes Rohan a stronger applicant is his experience in programs related to the computer science field and his ability to manage his time. Rohan has programmings skills in JavaScript, TypeScript, Python and Java. He has been a competition council member for DataEthics4All and a software engineer for Shiporium. In DataEthics4All, he collaborates with other students to develop online competitions, directs technological and non-technological competitions to encourage beginners in the field without technological expertise and debates constructively about the ethical use of AI tools in the education sector. In Shiporium, Rohan helps to create an online platform using crowdsourced USPS tracking numbers to predict how long international packages take to ship, collects data from local individual small businesses to increase shipping accuracy, and works to develop an intuitive UI system so businesses unfamiliar with technology can effectively use it. Moreover, Rohan is also an active member for the Boys Scout Troop 939 in Livermore, where collaborates with other older scouts to plan troop outings in various activities, develop meal plans for long trips and maintains a strict equipment maintenance and inspection regulation regimen. By and large, Rohan has excellent time management, making time to comply with his class assignments and participate in Dublin High School and community programs. In these programs, he is shaperning his professional character, leadership and social skills.

Above all, Rohan simply exudes a warm and friendly persona, making him a kind, approachable, mature, and well-rounded human being. Given his natural drive, I am quite eager to see what more he will accomplish as he continues his education and service to his community. I have no doubt Rohan could be a valuable asset to your program.

Sincerely,
Rocio Serrano
Spanish Language Teacher and WL Department Co-Lead Teacher Dublin High School
8151 Village Parkway
Dublin, California 94568-1699
(925) 833-3300 – Fax (925) 833-3322
1391

Application Submittal
Your completed application must be submitted via this online form. Application submittals must include the following items:

Questions
Please direct questions to Liz Eilliott, Recreation Supervisor, at 925-833-6645 or email First Name*
Yuv
Last Name*
Vij
Street Address*
Print
Youth Advisory Committee Application 2023-2024 term - Submission #5818 Date Submitted: 3/24/2023
1392
City*
Dublin
State*
California
Zip*
94568
Email Address*
Phone Number*
What school will you attend in the 2023-2024 school year?* Fallon Middle School
What grade will you be in during the 2023-2024 school year?* 7th Grade

1. Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* Becoming a member of Dublinâ€™s Youth Advisory Committee gives me an opportunity to be involved with my community. I want to help make a positive change and give back to my community. There are some things I have seen that I am passionate about changing such as teens of our area not getting to provide an input on events, like we did not get a link to set up stands on St Patrickâ€™s day. Additionally joining the YAC would help improve my leadership skills. Multiple skills such as communication, teamwork, public speaking skills, and problem solving can all be developed while working in a Youth Advisory Committee. I also want to learn how committees work. Joining the YAC will also give me an opportunity to find like minded people to create a network with, which will lead to new friendships and connections. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

2. What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* Strong teamwork skills are required for any committee. Being able to comfortably work with others and collaborate to achieve common goals is something I can do. I have won 4 Integrity in Action for teamwork awards, which are selected by teachers.

Critical thinking skills are also vital to being a successful committee member. One should be able to analyze issues, evaluate different options, and make profitable and appropriate decisions, this is something I possess. Furthermore as being part of the YAC Committee I will be able to provide an input and develop new create and original ideas to introduce to the community. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

3. What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC could address these issues?*
An issue I believe lingers in Dublin is substance abuse. My sister worked in D.A.R.E. (Drug Abuse Resistance Education), while she went to DHS. I heard of many drug abuse issues in her school itself, and how bad things could get. I feel that these kids should be able to get even further help, and by joining the YAC I can explore ways we can do this - like petitioning the cops to take more action. Another major issue in teens is mental health problems. In my school (FMS), an organization came and gave presentations about common mental health issues and coping methods. They showed multiple polls, and the results shocked me. The number of kids suffering from mental health due to academic pressure, family problems, and social isolation issues was severe. One of my very good friends has been wanting to commit suicide due to struggling with stress over family reasons. Over the last few months, things have gotten extremely serious to the point where law enforcement had to be involved.

I believe we can create an enhanced program that is able to reach out to children individually and offer guidance to better their lives through methods such as meditation.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)
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4. What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2023-2024 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities?* Some activities I am currently and will be involved in during the 2023-2024 school year are: Volleyball, Boy Scouts, Chess, and Coding. For these activities, most meetings/activities are weekly. YAC meetings are on the 4th Wednesday of every month at 7 PM, I do not have any classes or major activities on Wednesdays so the meeting time is ideal for me. As for non-meeting activities and work to be done, I will be able to devote time as YAC will take a high place on my priority list. (This boxcan be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

5. How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* Gettings teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities could be done primarily with social media and spreading the word to your friends. Platforms like Tik Tok, Instagram, Snapchat and Discord are extremely popular among teens these days. Promoting on these platforms would provide a way to reach out to teens and let them know these events are occurring. We could create accounts for different events. Engaging the teens and making them interested would be possible by making the events fun, engaging, and aligned with the interests of our target audience so they feel a personal connection. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

6. Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting? If yes, what was the meeting date and what was the outcome of the item(s) you were interested in?* I attended one City council meeting on October 18, 2022, right before Dewali that year. Me, my sister, and my father attended this meeting. I faintly remember the final outcome being Hindu American Awareness and Appreciation Month officially proclaimed as a special month every October.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

8. A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Upload Letter of Recommendation (required).*
YAC Rec Letter.pdf
Upload 2nd Letter of Recommendation (optional)
Letter of Rec Yuv.docx
Application materials must be submitted via this online application form. The application deadline is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 24, 2023. Applications or letters of recommendation will not be accepted after the deadline. 1394

Dear Selection Committee:

I have had the pleasure of coaching Yuv Vij on the 6th grade Volleyball team this school year. Yuv is a hard working, dedicated, and a self motivated student athlete.

Yuv's greatest strength is that he knows how to work effectively with others to achieve success. He has grown this year in his leadership skills modeling the qualities of a strong student leader. Some of those qualities include being on time, willing to help others, and taking initiative on reaching a collective goal. I highly recommend Yuv for Dublin's Youth Advisory Council as he will be an asset to your program.

Please feel free to call me or email me with any further questions.

Mr. Branson
Lead Physical Education Teacher

FALLON MIDDLE SCHOOL
3601 Kohnen Way, Dublin, CA 94568
925.875.9376
1395
1396

Application Submittal
Your completed application must be submitted via this online form. Application submittals must include the following items:

Questions
Please direct questions to Liz Eilliott, Recreation Supervisor, at 925-833-6645 or email First Name*
Dhruv
Last Name*
Vijaykumar
Street Address*
Print
Youth Advisory Committee Application 2023-2024 term - Submission #5729 Date Submitted: 3/21/2023
1397
City*
Dublin
State*
California
Zip*
94568
Email Address*
Phone Number*
What school will you attend in the 2023-2024 school year?* Emerald High School
What grade will you be in during the 2023-2024 school year?* 9th Grade

1. Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* Being part of the Youth Advisory Committee for the City of Dublin can open up many opportunities and pathways for me later on. As an aspiring lawyer, I find it important to have a good understanding of leadership, as well as diplomacy and confidence, all of which are shown in the YAC. I also believe that you need quick judgment and good problem solving skills. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

2. What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* Certain skills that I possess that make me a good candidate for the Youth Advisory Committee are my leadership and problem solving skills. Furthermore, I can remain calm in stressful situations as well as keeping people on good terms with each other. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

3. What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC could address these issues?*
A large issue that teens are dealing with in Dublin is stress, from parental and peer pressure, seeing as our schools are ribbon award winners, the academic competition is very high. I have seen people feel bad about themselves that they are doing grade level math instead of a higher level of math, which just shows the intensity placed on academics in Dublin. I feel that the best way to solve this is to encourage students to relax and talk to parents about putting less pressure on their children. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

4. What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2023-2024 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities?* I am currently involved in volleyball, but I will definitely be able to make time for YAC activities and meetings. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

5. How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* I feel that most teens would attend city sponsored events if they were aware that they were happening. I think that the most important thing to get people involved is to raise awareness about these events and create a large group of support to spread the word.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.) 1398

6. Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting? If yes, what was the meeting date and what was the outcome of the item(s) you were interested in?* No
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

8. A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Application Submittal
Your completed application must be submitted via this online form. Application submittals must include the following items:

Questions
Please direct questions to Liz Eilliott, Recreation Supervisor, at 925-833-6645 or email First Name*
Sriharshita
Last Name*
Vissapragada
Street Address*
Print
Youth Advisory Committee Application 2023-2024 term - Submission #5786 Date Submitted: 3/23/2023
1402
City*
Dublin
State*
California
Zip*
94568
Email Address*
Phone Number*
What school will you attend in the 2023-2024 school year?* Dublin High School
What grade will you be in during the 2023-2024 school year?* 11 1. Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* I wish to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee to make a difference in my community. By being involved in YAC I want to help my community as much as I can. I hope to bring issues that children and teens face to light in hopes of improving schools, and the city of Dublin as a whole for the younger generations. I have started making advancements towards my goals of helping as much as I can by joining the Teen Advisory Group in the Dublin Public Library. We work together as a team to involve more teens and children in the library to make it the best it can be. We have started planning out programs such as tutoring, art classes, clubs, AP studying sessions, and coding classes to improve our library. We hope by creating programs such as these, we will get more teens involved in the library and create a positive impact on children. I am also an employee in a rising non-profit called Rediscovering STEM. Our mission is to introduce STEM, especially science to children with disabilities in the hope that they may be interested and find a career in it. We started giving lessons that we made in classes in our school and started spreading our mission to other schools in our district. By being involved in this organization I hope to make an impact on everyone rather than just one specific group of people gaining and helping many people in our community. By taking small but significant steps such as being involved in the Teen Advisory Group in the library, volunteering, and being part of Rediscovering STEM I desire to give and help as much as I can to my community. Despite doing all of this I feel as if it is not enough, I wish to advance my goals further by helping my community, even more, bringing my peer's concerns and issues to the table, and making a change by joining YAC. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

2. What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* Skills I possess that would make me a strong candidate for the YAC are my ability to communicate well with my peers, work as a team, ability to handle responsibility. I have gained these skills through dance, which has taught me independence. Dance helped me grow into a new person. Through the classes, rehearsals, and performances, I learned how it felt to be responsible for mistakes made in competitions and the weight of being part of a dance team. I learned how to manage and organize my time effectively, communicate comfortably with an adult figure, and work as a team. In addition, being part of the Teen Advisory Group offered me more practice. It taught me leadership skills, and the ability to converse ideas with others, compromise, and work together effectively. I have also previously attended the Youth Leadership Program (Toast Masters International), which taught me important leadership skills such as leading meetings and public speaking. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)
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3. What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC could address these issues?*
I believe teens of this age are low in confidence, feeling more insecure from either body images, academically, or socially. The low level of confidence tears them up from the inside out discouraging many from putting in their best effort and even creating a negative mindset. Teens are so insecure that it is affecting how they act. They start hesitating and giving up together and withdrawing. A combination of toxic relationships, and pressure from parents, friends, and themselves can sometimes intensify the situation making them feel down. I think YAC could address these issues by promoting more representation. Letting teens know that you donâ€™t need to become a software or doctor to succeed but that others go by as well or by allowing for more body positivity. Letting teens know of people they can talk to and promoting the importance of having a safe adult to talk to. By addressing these issues I feel it would be possible to give teenagers security and release the pent-up pressure they put on themselves and others to do well in school and outside of it. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

4. What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2023-2024 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities?* I will be interning at the Lawerence Hall of Science over the summer on the weekdays and return at 4:30, leaving enough time for YAC meetings. I attend dance classes on the weekends for an hour and volunteer in my spare time at Rediscovering STEM, the library, etc. Therefore, my schedule is flexible over the year for meetings and activities. (This boxcan be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

5. How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* I would get other teens involved in the community by promoting it at school. We could promote it on social media since many teens actively use apps such as Instagram. On that note, we could ask schools to send emails out to students about events/programs. We could also further the involvement of teens by giving out volunteer hours, involving food, or making it a friendly competition.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

6. Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting? If yes, what was the meeting date and what was the outcome of the item(s) you were interested in?* No
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

8. A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Upload Letter of Recommendation (required).*
Sriharshita Vissapragada Recommendation Letter.pdf
Upload 2nd Letter of Recommendation (optional)
Recommendation Letter.pdf
Application materials must be submitted via this online application form. The application deadline is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 24, 2023. Applications or letters of recommendation will not be accepted after the deadline. 1404
To whom it may concern,
I have known Sriharshita Vissapragada for about 8 years as her Traditional Indian Dance (Bharatanatyam) teacher. Over the years, I have gotten to know her well and I would like to recommend her to the Youth Advisory Committee.

Sriharshita is a dedicated and attentive student often ‘second guessing’ a request before I ask.

She proves to be an invaluable asset to our school each year. She is a prompt, kind, responsible, and helpful person to both me and her classmates. She has taken on the tough duty to lead students at performances in my absence. In this capacity, she demonstrated great dance community involvement and leadership qualities by not only assisting me but by organizing the younger kids, providing guidance, and constructive feedback. Sharing advice (even a video) with peers is a rare quality but she understands the dynamics of nurturing individuals to elevate the expertise of the entire school. As such, she works and communicates well with our school’s parents and students. Sriharshita effectively works within a dance team and enthusiastically collaborates with her peers. Her ability to persevere and work towards her goals is very admirable. In class and performances, I can count on her to do her very best.

She will definitely be a great addition to your committee. Her ability to work with others, persevere and mature leadership skills will surely benefit the Youth Advisory Committee.

Please contact me if you have any questions.

Swetha Dixit
Artistic Director
Kalaikoil
Dublin, CA 94568
1405

DUBLIN HIGH SCHOOL

A GOLD RIBBON SCHOOL
8151 Village Parkway, Dublin, CA 94568 © 925-833-3300 « FAX 925-833-3322 March 20, 2023
Members of the Admissions Committee,
I am pleased to recommend Sriharshita Vissapragada for a position on the Youth Advisory Committee. Sriharshita is currently a student in my Honors Chemistry class at Dublin High School.

Sriharshita is an outstanding student. As a student, she consistently produces high-quality work and exhibits exemplary organizational and time management skills that allow her to manage a challenging academic workload successfully. In class, Sriharshita is engaged during class discussions and asks informed and thoughtful questions. She works well with a variety of diverse individuals and takes a leadership role during group work. Her leadership style is encouraging and collaborative, and she exhibits tact and understanding in difficult situations. While initially appearing reserved, Sriharshita has a warm and friendly personality.

Sriharshita will make a great addition to the Youth Leadership Committee. Her intellectual curiosity, maturity, and focus will be valuable assets. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions.

Sincerely,
Tracy Parker, Ph.D.

Teacher, Honors Chemistry and Principles of Biomedical Science Dublin High School
www.dublinusd.org/dhs
1406

Application Submittal
Your completed application must be submitted via this online form. Application submittals must include the following items:

Questions
Please direct questions to Liz Eilliott, Recreation Supervisor, at 925-833-6645 or email First Name*
Emma
Last Name*
Wang
Street Address*
Print
Youth Advisory Committee Application 2023-2024 term - Submission #5820 Date Submitted: 3/24/2023
1407
City*
Dublin
State*
California
Zip*
94568
Email Address*
Phone Number*
What school will you attend in the 2023-2024 school year?* Dublin High School
What grade will you be in during the 2023-2024 school year?* 11th

1. Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* I was in 8th grade where we had an assignment to plan a project that would impact our community. At first, I was enthusiastic, I got to create something that will impact masses of people. People will go by in the street and say, â€œHey, thatâ€™s Emma she didâ€¦and it changed my life.â€ Then I pondered the word community, what was my community? Okay, I was a first generation Asian American, okay, I was musically inclined and I get along with people my age, but thatâ€™s such a large group, so I thought smaller, the community of Dublin? Did Dublin ever have a community? I knew the small community of Positano, my neighbors had a dog that would bark every night, but what even was the community of Dublin? Was it people I went to school with, no, thatâ€™s too small. Iâ€™ve had this question in my mind for the longest time. To this day, I have a feeling a lot of people are unclear about what the â€œDublin communityâ€ is. I wish to join the YAC because I want to define the Dublin Community for everyone. I want to encourage change by teens for their community, and I want them to be able to say that they care and understand what the Dublin community means. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

2. What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* I am resilient, independent and persistent, if I want something done, I will get it done, no matter how long it takes. Of course, I will find a time efficient way to achieve a goal, however, given my experience playing an instrument for more than 10 years and taking tests to assess my skill, I understand the importance of deadlines and setting small goals in order to reach a desired outcome. I also the understand the importance of interaction with new people and networking, Iâ€™m the secretary of a brand new club at my high school mainly focused on information in the legal career field and weâ€™ve struggled to get participation and our feet on the ground, however after developing entertaining events and opportunities to get in tune with what we do, me and my team members are building a community for people with like minded career interests. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)
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3. What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC could address these issues?*
Teens in Dublin currently are in a bubble of elementary, middle and high school experience. They get to school, have a schedule set for them, do a sport, homework or go home. Parents, teachers and peers put so much pressure on getting into university or just finishing high school. Counselors in schools are focusing on students and their academic status while in high school, but no one is teaching these kids how to survive on their own in the workforce, what adulting really is. Itâ€™s also incredibly intimidating to talk about your personal concerns with an adult that you could have differences with or is swayed by a certain path. I know that I want to pursue a career in law, I know I want to go to school in Chicago, but what will I do when I get there? Iâ€™m constantly told that the expectations of university life and earning a living are far removed from the reality of surviving as an independent student or adult, but how, in what way, and what can I do to help myself? I have friends that are looking to study abroad or maybe just attend community college and transfer, but donâ€™t know what happens after. Itâ€™s good to allow your future to happen and to stop trying to fervently control it, however I think that this is a large part of the mental stresses of today, that are beginning to seep into middle school minds. Simply listening to the experiences of people in college and just having a casual conversation like friends is what will allow people to loosen up. It was certainly effective for me, even just talking about what courses to take in high school. This is why I think a forum of simply a group of diverse college students should be held, where they talk about their everyday life in high school, what they want to do in the future, what they look for in searching for a job, etc. would be incredibly helpful. This or an email/phone line, for teens who just want to tap in and talk about their anxieties for the future.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

4. What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2023-2024 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities?* I have previously mentioned that I have played an instrument for ten years however for my 11th year I will mostly just be playing competitively. I did ran track my first year of high school and this year I am doing swimming, however I donâ€™t think times will overlap with YAC. I am doing a tutoring program right now, but I am in candidacy to lead next year so I will be able to arrange times best suited. I am part of a volunteering program also and I have a dedicated goal of hours each year however I can think of many ways to help efficiently. I am secretary of the Pre Law Society at my school however itâ€™s mostly on the weekdays. (This boxcan be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

5. How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* Social media is the most obvious answer to mass engagement, however, I believe in person promotion is one of the more effective ways to get engagement. Using social media is a great way to reach masses of individuals and gain an audience, however I also know that itâ€™s easy for someone to scroll past a post, even if itâ€™s eye catching, if someoneâ€™s distracted by other situations in their life, itâ€™s easy to put off a post to the side and just think they have better things to do.

What I think could promote involvement is presenting fun activities in places that are actively brimming with teens in the theme of the following community event, having people actively see the significance of the activity, instead of just talking about it in an instagram post.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

6. Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting? If yes, what was the meeting date and what was the outcome of the item(s) you were interested in?* No, I have not.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

8. A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Upload Letter of Recommendation (required).*
Emma Wang Letter of Rec.pdf
1409
Upload 2nd Letter of Recommendation (optional)
Choose File No file selected
Application materials must be submitted via this online application form. The application deadline is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 24, 2023. Applications or letters of recommendation will not be accepted after the deadline. 1410
March 23, 2023
Dear Selection Committee,
It is with great pleasure that I recommend Emma Wang for consideration to join Dublin's Youth Advisory Council. I have the honor of teaching Emma during her sophomore year at Dublin High School as her English teacher. During this time, I have witnessed Emma’s dedication to academic excellence, her extra curricular activities, and helping her peers in the classroom.

Emma is a hardworking student who does not let other students or difficult situations distract her or prevent her from achieving her goals. She is an incredibly driven individual and does not shy away from asking for help when necessary. Emma shows empathy for others in collaborative work; her willingness to step up as a leader, and at the same time, her willingness to let others lead is readily apparent in class. Emma is also an active member of her community and is in a leadership role for a group that tutors children from Taiwan, volunteers for an organization called Tzu-Chi, is the secretary for the DHS Pre-Law Society, competitively plays the violin, and is on the SRVA swim team.

It is with great confidence that I recommend Emma to Dublin's Youth Advisory Council. From my time spent with Emma, I learned that she is determined and engaged in her own learning and goals. In this light, Emma shows a tremendous amount of initiative and personal drive to succeed. She is self-driven and motivated to meet her goals and I believe this is a quality that will serve her well as a member of the Youth Advisory Council. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me via email at
Sincerely,
Faith Dionida, Ph.D.

English Department Chair & English Teacher
Dublin High School
www.dublinusd.org/dhs
1411

Application Submittal
Your completed application must be submitted via this online form. Application submittals must include the following items:

Questions
Please direct questions to Liz Eilliott, Recreation Supervisor, at 925-833-6645 or email First Name*
Caitlyn
Last Name*
Wong
Street Address*
Print
Youth Advisory Committee Application 2023-2024 term - Submission #5796 Date Submitted: 3/24/2023
1412
City*
Dublin
State*
California
Zip*
94568
Email Address*
Phone Number*
What school will you attend in the 2023-2024 school year?* Dublin High School
What grade will you be in during the 2023-2024 school year?* 10 1. Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* Being a native citizen of Dublin for my entire life, I want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee because I am enthusiastic and interested about the opportunity to represent the city's youth. Over the years, I have seen the transformation and the evolution of the city and believe that my presence would be of great value. With my familiarization of Dublin's community, I am passionate about sharing my thoughts and providing honest opinions on youth services and assisting with youth activities. Being a part of the Youth Advisory Council (YAC) would be a great opportunity to align my values with a committee that values teamwork.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

2. What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* I have a wide range of skills, from being analytical to being a good listener. I have strong interpersonal and communication skills, and I'm open to hearing new ideas. Additionally, I have a tendency to be curious and to ask questions, which enables me to be quite observant. Furthermore, I am able to contribute ideas, offer feedback, and be honest. I am able to act professional and with maturity. I am confident I would thrive in this position because of my past experiences with volunteering. Having the pleasure of volunteering at middle school dances and assisting children at summer camp, Iâ€™ve developed skills such as teamwork and communicating with other volunteers. I was able to be in a leadership role while volunteering at the summer camp, which equipped me with the relevant and important skills you are seeking. Lastly, being a member of the YAC is a fantastic way to help me take the skills I have now and use them to grow and develop. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

3. What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC could address these issues?*
Teenagers typically have a lot on their minds. Teenagers deal with a variety of issues, including peer and academic pressure, mental health, social media use and others, in my opinion and from my experience attending school here in Dublin. The issue that most intrigues me is unarguably mental health. Teenagers are used to suffering from poor mental health, and the occurrence of depression and anxiety among them has increased. Teenagers now face new and different social issues as a result of technological advancements. Just two examples include issues with body image and cyberbullying. Consumption and addiction to social media can have a negative impact on mental health because it can create a "fear of missing out" and present unrealistic views of other people's lives. Teenagers' mental health may eventually be impacted by pressure in their lives.

Pressure to get good grades, a high GPA, or to get enrolled in a college and the feeling of needing to be perfect at everything.

By telling teens that they are not alone in these situations, we can help. Organizing activities that can raise awareness of mental health. Teenagers want someone to understand their struggles, so I believe that having people from all walks of life talk about mental health will help. Utilizing social media to connect with teenagers and provide them with resources like websites, hotlines, local services, national helplines, and mental health services. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)
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4. What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2023-2024 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities?* Dancing is my main recreational activity. I've been a ballet dancer for over a decade and Iâ€™ve done other varieties of dance like contemporary, lyrical and jazz. I'm encouraging myself to get involved in different sports at DHS for the 2023â€“2024 school year, such as the dance team and cheer team. Additionally, I'm hoping to be able to work on a tech crew for DHS's theater productions. I will undoubtedly be able to make time for YAC events and meetings. Furthermore, Iâ€™m able to have time to assist with the implementations of events and youth activities outside of meeting hours. I'm hoping that joining the advisory committee will allow me to add more extracurricular activities to my schedule for the 2023â€“2024 year. (This boxcan be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

5. How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* Without a doubt, social media plays a significant role in a teen's life. Their major priorities is social media, and social media marketing is the most effective way to engage other teenagers. Establishing an Instagram account and posting frequently on stories will encourage more people to attend events and get involved in the community. Send emails to every student and ask your committee members to promote them on their own social media accounts. Additionally, we can make posters and display them in public places like schools.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

6. Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting? If yes, what was the meeting date and what was the outcome of the item(s) you were interested in?* I have not had the pleasure of attending a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

8. A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Upload Letter of Recommendation (required).*
C. Wong Letter of Rec.pdf
Upload 2nd Letter of Recommendation (optional)
C. Wong Letter of Rec CCS Letterhead - Sargent.pdf
Application materials must be submitted via this online application form. The application deadline is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 24, 2023. Applications or letters of recommendation will not be accepted after the deadline. 1414

COTTONWOOD CREEK SCHOOL
DUBLIN UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT Lorianne R. Ventura, Ed.D.

Principal
Friday 10 March 2023
To Whom It May Concern:
“Try not to become a man of success, but rather try to become a man of value.”- Albert Einstein. This is the personal motto of a creative, compassionate and conscientious young lady, Miss Caitlyn Wong.

To provide context for this reference, I’ve taught secondary English in the public school system for over 20 years. I had the pleasure of being Caitlyn’s English instructor last year at Cottonwood Creek K-8 School; she has kept in contact with me throughout her freshman year at Dublin High School. It is an honor to recommend Miss Wong for the 2023-2024 City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee.

As a student in my 8th grade English class, Caitlyn not only demonstrated strong scholastic skills in reading, writing and speaking, but she also had a tremendous talent for being inclusive of her peers and encouraged them to actively participate in the learning processes. She was instrumental in motivating her classmates to support our CCS Book Buddy Program with the Special Education class and the K-3 elementary students. Furthermore, she is self aware and acknowledges when and where she needs to grow based upon her understanding of content and/or choices in the educational setting. She is not afraid to ask questions, advocate for herself, and/or take risks to learn a new skill or understand a different perspective on a topic.

Apart from being competent academically, Caitlyn possesses amazing gifts in both art and dance. For over 10 years, she has been a professionally trained and competitive dancer, specializing in ballet. Additionally, she enjoys and flourishes in all of the fine arts, specifically drawing and photography. These talents were exemplified during numerous class projects.

Caitlyn is very humble in her assessment of her natural abilities; yet, exhibits a quiet confidence when showcasing them.

Miss Wong has been recognized for her efforts and abilities at CCS, receiving Honor Roll and Integrity in Action awards for Outstanding Demonstration of Empathy and Growth Mindset. Moreover, she earned a 3.57 GPA her first semester at DHS.

For her distinction in the arts, she was selected for a leading role in the 2021 performance of The Nutcracker, from 2016-2022 she won a myriad of local, state, national and international dance competitions/awards, and at the 2021 Alameda County Fair she took 1st Place and Best of Class in the photography contest.

Caitlyn’s motto by Einstein is symbolic of her strong character and desire to contribute to making the world a better place.

Thus, I can say unequivocally that Miss Wong epitomizes the purpose of Dublin’s Youth Advisory Committee and would be an outstanding member. If you have further questions, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Sincerely,
Laurie K . Sargent
Laurie K. Sargent
English Teacher
2400 Central Parkway • Dublin • California 94568 • (925) 833-3333 • Fax (925) 833-3711 1415

COTTONWOOD CREEK SCHOOL
DUBLIN UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT Lorianne R. Ventura, Ed.D.

Principal
2400 Central Parkway • Dublin • California 94568 • (925) 833-3333 • Fax (925) 833-3711 1416

COTTONWOOD CREEK SCHOOL
DUBLIN UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT Lorianne R. Ventura, Ed.D., Principal To Whom it May Concern,
My name is Mrs. Rebecca Teames and I am honored to write this letter recommending Caitlyn Wong for the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee.

Caitlyn was a student in my 8th grade US History class during the 2021-2022 school year.

During that time I had the privilege of watching Caitlyn’s determination and resilience in action. She made great strides in her critical thinking, writing, and public speaking over the course of the year. Her creativity and respect for others made her an indispensable member of our classroom community. Caitlyn left CCS with the skills needed to become an engaged and thoughtful citizen.

Outside of class, Caitlyn demonstrates her well-rounded character in a variety of ways. As a CCS student she was active in the campus Rainbow Alliance club. She is a talented dancer who participates in her ballet school’s many performances. Additionally, she has taken the initiative to come back to CCS to volunteer during school dances.

Over the past two years I have had the privilege of getting to know Caitlyn not only as a student but as a person. She is extremely empathetic and cares deeply about her friends and those around her. She is naturally altruistic and drawn toward social justice. Her open-minded nature and respect for others lend themselves to a talent for positive leadership.

I have no doubt that Caitlyn will be a positive and thoughtful asset to the Youth Advisory Council and help our Dublin community thrive. I recommend her without reservation and am happy to provide any additional insight at your request.

Sincerely,
Mrs. Rebecca Teames
8th Grade US History Teacher
Humanities Lead
Drama Director
Cottonwood Creek School
1417

Application Submittal
Your completed application must be submitted via this online form. Application submittals must include the following items:

Questions
Please direct questions to Liz Eilliott, Recreation Supervisor, at 925-833-6645 or email First Name*
Daniel
Last Name*
Wu
Street Address*
Print
Youth Advisory Committee Application 2023-2024 term - Submission #5849 Date Submitted: 3/24/2023
1418
City*
Dublin
State*
California
Zip*
94568
Email Address*
Phone Number*
What school will you attend in the 2023-2024 school year?* Dublin High School
What grade will you be in during the 2023-2024 school year?* 9 1. Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* Like most in the Bay Area, Iâ€™m the child of first generation immigrant parents, who worked extremely hard to move here.

Hearing their experiences has always humbled me, from intelligence to perseverance, my parents did not have even the close to the opportunities as I do. Theyâ€™ve come from poor villages in China, with not even a suitable nutritional diet, working their way up to afford a place in America, facing discrimination in the US, all alone. So perhaps out of guilt, Iâ€™ve always tried my best in any subject and to help others who donâ€™t share the same privileges that I do. Because there have been so many times where people who deserve it simply canâ€™t achieve their goals because of financial restraints or family issues, and it isnâ€™t fair. I think that as part of the current generation, who will one day have to lead, we all have an obligation to better ourselves and each other to address issues that we face together. Naturally, volunteering has helped me to open my perspective to the different aspects of our community, as well as beyond. From distributing COVID supplies during the height of the pandemic, working at soup kitchens, playing piano for our seniors, and tutoring kids, each of these experiences all are unique in their own way. We have such an amazing city and so many hard working people, yet issues still remain.

Infrastructure in less privileged areas and mental health issues are only one of the many countless problems. By joining the YAC, I would be able to maximize the amount of service I do for our community, giving back to the people who work so hard to provide for everyone. We all have our part to play, and I am ready to accept it. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)
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2. What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* Leadership - This year, I was elected as the California Junior Scholarship Secretary at Fallon Middle School. Looking back, Iâ €™m proud of what we accomplished. Still recovering from the pandemic, Fallon was still not as active as it had been in previous years. Many students struggled academically from the transition, thus our implementation of the CJSF mentor program. Myself and other board members coordinated with school counselors to create a tutoring system with group sessions or one with a mentor both in school and after school. Weâ€™ve also held fundraisers including our Panda Express Fundraiser and the Handwarmer Fundraiser which have allowed students to become involved to support our community and support aid organizations. We also raised over $1500 for the Alameda County Food Bank. My leadership role, shown on campus, would prove valuable to the YAC. Community Minded - I have been part of the Global Leadership Initiatives For Youth (GLIFY) for two years, which is a nonprofit organization in the East Bay of Northern California. We collaborate with multiple organizations locally, in which Iâ€™ve been able to volunteer regularly by packing food at Kids Against Hunger, organizing medical supplies at Medshare (unfortunately their West Coast chain shut down), growing food for Open Heart Kitchen at Fertile Groundworks, assisting at the Alameda County Fair, and playing piano for the piano for the Reutlinger Senior Center. This year, I became the Project Leader of GLIFYâ€™s Speech and Debate Program, which provides affordable Public Forum Debate training to kids locally. The program is seasonal and has given me the opportunity to hold a guiding role to help others find their voice. As someone both with a perspective of contributing and mentoring our community, my experience validates me for a candidate.

Communication/Public Speaking - The ability to communicate effectively is extremely important in all aspects of life, including the YAC. As both part of Fallonâ€™s competitive Debate Team and Public Forum Debater, the value of public speaking has become especially apparent to me in competitions. Yet through the championships and awards, Iâ€™ve always appreciated the use of rhetoric in regular aspects of life. Public Forum Debate itself is a two person format, and clear communication has allowed me to create connections with peers and pursue opportunities in interviews and future work. I believe that these skills could help the YAC in similar fashions. Teamwork - An orchestra requires that each individual executes their part in accordance with another. My experience with Fallonâ€™s Advanced String Orchestra has certainly brought this perspective to me. Working with different sections and interweaving melodies has not only required musical ability, but teamwork as well. Following a conductor, a leader, is important to creating a well functioning team, in which I believe that YAC follows a similar practice.

Hence, my teamwork skills would be valuable in working with other members of the committee to achieve its goals. Diligent - A large part of my life has been spent besides my piano. While perhaps not particularly unique, the countless hours that I have spent practicing for almost seven years is certainly a form of consistency. Ultimately, hard work pays off eventually, in this case in the form of an invitation to MTACâ€™s Los Angeles Convention last year. Regardless of how bitter, Iâ€™ve started to appreciate the practice that goes into work, not just my own. I believe that diligence is key to striving for long term goals and members of the YAC with this would benefit Dublinâ€™s own goals. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

3. What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC could address these issues?*
It's no surprise that the pandemic affected the entire nation from supply chain issues to distance learning. But something that's often overlooked is the effect of it on our current generation. Like most, students face intense pressure from maintaining academic performance to pursuing extracurriculars, this stress exacerbated by COVID. Unfortunately, many donâ€™t seem to recognize it as an actual issue, even kids at school making jokes about stereotypical and racial differences in students. All of this can be extremely demotivating to students and even harmful. I know friends who have hurt themselves from the stress, not just from sleep but sometimes self inflicted harm. I myself have experienced a burden on my mental health and plenty of others have faced far worse. It truly does hurt me when unspoken issues are simply ignored, which is something I hope to change if accepted into the YAC. I believe that possible solutions could involve counseling programs available to those in need, across the entire community. Though the main solvency, in my opinion, must occur through education. Hosting seminars on mental health and promoting awareness is the only way to address the root of the problem. I recently attended a Youth Mental Health Seminar by Dr. Xie explored the stress our current teens feel, and it really opened my perspective on how we can learn to balance expectations. I know the YAC itself hosts similar programs, and this is an issue I would be passionate to support. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

4. What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2023-2024 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities?* Next year, I anticipate continuing my piano studies with the Music Teachers Association of California and the American College Of Musicians. Once a freshman, I will have a lot more opportunities, since many are limited to high school, to play for the Young Artists Panel and enter the Preparatory Levels of the National Guild. I also plan on pursuing debate, joining the Dublin High School Speech and Debate Team and have already been accepted into Potomac Debateâ€™s Varsity Public Forum team.

Obviously, I hope to volunteer more often, with the YAC possibly, but will continue regardless with GLIFY and tutoring kids over the summer and breaks. I also intend on joining CSF in high school, building off of my previous experience. Other than that, and a few classes with languages and computer science, my schedule is pretty flexible. I have good time management skills and donâ€™t often procrastinate. If accepted, I would work my absolute hardest to help the YAC and our community. (This boxcan be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)
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5. How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* In order for other teens to become involved, communication must reach them directly. The reality is that a lot of teens do want to support our city, it's just that many donâ€™t know where to find opportunities. There are a couple ways that I believe this could happen. Firstly is through social media platforms. Our entire generation is digitized, creating a strong online base would be key to sending information and spreading awareness for projects about our community. Implementing a public relations committee dedicated to advertisements might increase the scope, especially since specialized members most likely have avenues of communications. Another way would be through enticement, perhaps through a well known figure or a fun activity to draw teens in. Splatter is a good example. Large activities with many games attract large audiences, which provide opportunities to spread advertisements and events to support the Community. Last year, I actually worked with Black Dragon Shotokan Karate Club at Splatter to distribute food locally to those in need, which I discovered through Splatter. The most effective way that we could get teens involved, I believe, is through establishing connections. The most obvious would be through school or outside clubs that include students, and therefore their members to be involved as well. This works especially well with social media, as many of these clubs have their own platforms of communication. At school, through CJSF, we were able to establish a lot of connections through different clubs such as Orchestra, Band, Hip-Hop team, and PEAC, as many of us were involved in multiple areas. There is also collaboration with other volunteer organizations. Through this, opportunities become much more accessible to teens who are looking for areas to volunteer. In GLIFY, we have connections with many organizations, allowing easy avenues to volunteering.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

6. Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting? If yes, what was the meeting date and what was the outcome of the item(s) you were interested in?* n/a
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

8. A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Upload Letter of Recommendation (required).*
YAC_Recommendation_Letter_1 _-_Daniel.pdf
Upload 2nd Letter of Recommendation (optional)
YAC_Recommendation_Letter_2 _-_Daniel.pdf
Application materials must be submitted via this online application form. The application deadline is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 24, 2023. Applications or letters of recommendation will not be accepted after the deadline. 1421
Eleanor Murray Fallon
Middle School
March 16, 2023
Dear Selections Committee,
It is beyond my great pleasure to recommend Daniel Wu to take part in the Youth Advisory Committee for the City of Dublin. He is one of the most exemplary and devoted students that I have encountered in my teaching career.

I have gotten to know Daniel this year during his time as a student in my 8th grade English class at Fallon Middle School. During that time, I have watched Daniel grow into an outstanding, dedicated, and mature individual who excels in all of his academic and personal pursuits.

As Daniel’s teacher, I have witnessed his extraordinary organizational, analytical, and critical thinking skills firsthand. In and out of the classroom, Daniel is helpful, organized, respectful, dedicated, and has a positive attitude towards everything he does. Daniel’s final project for our Genius Hour unit was particularly impressive. For it, he researched and created an in-depth, interactive, and very interesting presentation on the theory of the MetaVerse. I was absolutely blown away by Daniel’s project. The analysis, connections, and overall idea and execution of Daniel’s presentation was truly exceptional. Daniel made a very difficult concept into an interesting, accessible, and eye-opening perspective on a unique topic that left everyone engaged and thinking at the end of it.

Daniel is also a very talented and accomplished musician. He is a member of the Fallon Advanced Orchestra, and has won many awards for his beautiful piano playing including the distinguished Music Teachers Association of California Branch Honors. When Daniel plays, the dedication, precision, and passion that he infuses into his music is felt and very moving. It actually brought tears to my eyes. You can see and feel his passion, drive, and zeal when he plays. This all highlights the dedication, tenacity, and integrity in which Daniel approaches everything he sets out to accomplish.

In my many years of teaching, I have never been more impressed and proud of a student. Outside of his impressive academic and personal resumes, Daniel has a very strong moral compass, as well as impeccable leadership and communication skills. He is a respected leader in the classroom and on Campus. One such example is Daniel’s work as a W.E.B (We All Belong) Leader program at Fallon. This is a program that matches new 6th graders with 8th grade mentors in order to help them successfully transition into middle school. As one of the WEB program advisors, I have seen firsthand how impactful, dedicated, and respected Daniel is by the Fallon community. During a time when most students retreated into themselves and the intrinsic nature of our changing world and landscape, Daniel has not. He has excelled and exceeded in this new normal, and taken it as an opportunity to challenge himself to do better, and hold himself accountable and to the highest standards. He takes his music, schoolwork, and responsibilities very seriously, and strives for mastery with an insatiable thirst for knowledge and the laser focus of an Olympic Athlete.

Daniel is a role model and a leader, showing through his words and actions that everyone has a voice and is important. He is well-loved and respected by his peers, as well as all those who have had the pleasure of teaching him.

His support lifted and encouraged me, his classmates, and school by being a positive, impactful, and honorable role model to the entire school and community of Dublin, CA.

Daniel would be an outstanding and welcomed addition to the Dublin Youth Advisory Committee. He is an amazing young man, who will definitely make a very positive impact on the world. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions regarding his character or past academic work.

Sincerely,
Matthew Wakerling
English/PLTW Apps Creator
3601 Kohnen Way Dublin, CA. 94568 FAX 925-829-7261
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March 18, 2023
YAC Application Panel
Dublin, CA
Dear Youth Advisory Committee application panel,
It is with great pleasure that I recommend Daniel Wu to be a member of Dublin’s Youth Advisory Committee. I first met Daniel as a seventh grader in my English class. Daniel’s work was always impeccable, well crafted, and deep. His analysis but also his ability to connect with ideas on a personal level and apply them to real life situations really made him an outstanding student in my English class. Then, Daniel applied for the competitive speech and debate elective class and team that I teach. He is a great leader in this class. I already knew that Daniel was receptive to academic critical feedback to improve his writing and analysis skills but this class also showed me that he was willing to accept and apply critical feedback to his teamwork and leadership skills. I have watched him grow as a leader and teammate in that class. He has already figured out that a leader needs to know when to step up and lead, but also when to step to the side and let others have a voice, or the importance of recognizing when others need support. He has a maturity that vastly surpasses his peers.

The qualities that Daniel possesses that most qualify him for a position on the Dublin Youth Advisory Council are his critical thinking skills, ability to problem solve, and his ease in seeing and understanding multiple perspectives. I firmly believe that Daniel will come up with creative and effective solutions to unite Dublin’s kids and teens in pursuit of meaningful and worthwhile goals. Every project he has worked on has been done skillfully and with great care, and I know that he will use those same skills to plan events and activities too. His organization, time management, and ability to work with all kinds of people, and work to support all kinds of peers, make him a great candidate for this council.

Overall, I give my highest recommendation to Daniel Wu for the Dublin Youth Advisory Council. This will be a great opportunity for him to gain some real world experience and see how the skills he practices and exhibits within the classroom can be applied to the larger city and society. Daniel is a changemaker, and I am excited to see what changes he will bring to Dublin. I expect that Daniel will plan for and consider groups and activities that many of his peers would likely exclude in their planning, and Daniel’s lens can really help make Dublin a more welcoming and united place for all of our kids.

Sincerely,
Monica Lewis
Teacher at Fallon Middle School
1423

Application Submittal
Your completed application must be submitted via this online form. Application submittals must include the following items:

Questions
Please direct questions to Liz Eilliott, Recreation Supervisor, at 925-833-6645 or email First Name*
Ruoyi
Last Name*
Wu
Street Address*
Print
Youth Advisory Committee Application 2023-2024 term - Submission #5705 Date Submitted: 3/18/2023
1424
City*
Dublin
State*
CA
Zip*
94568
Email Address*
Phone Number*
What school will you attend in the 2023-2024 school year?* Dublin High School
What grade will you be in during the 2023-2024 school year?* Junior

1. Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* Due to the fact that I only moved to Dublin in 2021 in my 8th grade, I often feel like I am missing a lot about the Dublin community. There are so many events and traditions of Dublin that I am currently learning about. I think that becoming a member of the YAC will lead to me becoming more connected with the city of Dublin. I also want to be able to interact with other like minded teenagers and hopefully build new bonds or friendships that way. There are some ideas of potential programs and activities that I think would benefit Dublin and the YAC is the perfect opportunity where I can offer my input. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

2. What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* I have strong collaboration and communication skills that can allow me to work well with the other members of YAC. An instance that can demonstrate those skills is when I was the co-event coordinator and emcee for the Breaking BEARriers Lunar New Year concert celebration hosted at the Dublin Senior Center. During that event, I had to direct and support 10+ volunteers and make sure that the event ran smoothly as well. Since I was a co-coordinator, I sometimes had to compromise on my ideas with my partner in order to make sure that both of us were happy. I am also good at planning my personal schedule and will be able to make sure that I will be free to attend every single YAC meeting and will try my best to be punctual. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

3. What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC could address these issues?*
There seems to be an increase of vaping and students viewing that activity as something â€œcoolâ€. Just about a week ago, I saw two girls vaping in front of the sinks in the school bathroom. The YAC could partner up with the TUPE program in order to tackle that issue. Another way is to bring in some guest speakers who could educate them about the dangers of vaping and nicotine addiction. Due to the competitiveness of Dublin High School, many students like my friends and even me are facing the pressure to succeed academically. Many teenagers around me feel burned out and are stressed, often giving up fun social events in order to study. A potential way that the YAC could address this issue is by introducing de-stressing workshops into the school or hosting non-academic events like creative ones. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)
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4. What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2023-2024 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities?* I will be volunteering through various organizations and clubs such as CSF, Interact, Kids Against Hunger and Breaking BEARriers, but that will be mainly on the weekends with a few exceptions. As long I know the YAC meeting or activity date and time beforehand, I can make sure to plan around them in order devote time each month. (This boxcan be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

5. How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* I would utilize the power of social media in order to help get teens involved. Many teenagers get a lot of their information from online and if the YAC makes/uses social media accounts, it would be a great way to help spread the word out about any events and activities. Also, many teenagers are involved in clubs on campus and I can reach out to some of the clubs I am in like California Scholarship Federation, Interact, and Key Club in order to spread awareness through them. On a much smaller scale, I will try to get all of my classmates and friends involved just by talking to them about any events or activities. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

6. Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting? If yes, what was the meeting date and what was the outcome of the item(s) you were interested in?* No, I have unfortunately never attended any meetings.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

8. A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Upload Letter of Recommendation (required).*
RW Letter of Recommendation.pdf
Upload 2nd Letter of Recommendation (optional)
Choose File No file selected
Application materials must be submitted via this online application form. The application deadline is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 24, 2023. Applications or letters of recommendation will not be accepted after the deadline. 1426
March 10, 2023
To Whom It May Concern,
It is with great pleasure that I recommend Ruoyi Wu as a potential recipient for your Youth Advisory Committee. I have had the pleasure of having her in my sophomore year English class for the 22-23 school year at Dublin High School. During her time in my class, Ruoyi’s work has been first rate and she has been nothing but a pleasure to have in my class. Ruoyi has impressed me in many ways, whether it be through her dedication to academics, participation in class discussions or her kindness. She has demonstrated unwavering focus and dedication to the tasks at hand. In class, I have also observed her motivation and resourcefulness; two qualities that will make her an excellent leader in her community. Ruoyi is very responsible and hard-working, showing her ability to adapt to any situation, whether it be small-group discussions or for larger-group projects.

Ruoyi’s open-minded and kind attitude can also be seen through her various extracurriculars, such as Interact Club and Key Club. She has also been awarded the prestigious silver medal for the French National Contest “Le Grand Concours”. With her strong academic and interpersonal skills, Ruoyi is an excellent candidate for the city of Dublin’s Youth Advisory Committee. She has been an asset to have in my classroom; I believe she will bring these shining qualities to your program as well.

Respectfully,
Celine Shi - Dublin High School English Teacher
1427

Application Submittal
Your completed application must be submitted via this online form. Application submittals must include the following items:

Questions
Please direct questions to Liz Eilliott, Recreation Supervisor, at 925-833-6645 or email First Name*
Phoebe
Last Name*
Yee
Street Address*
Print
Youth Advisory Committee Application 2023-2024 term - Submission #5775 Date Submitted: 3/23/2023
1428
City*
Dublin
State*
CA
Zip*
94568
Email Address*
Phone Number*
What school will you attend in the 2023-2024 school year?* Dublin High School
What grade will you be in during the 2023-2024 school year?* 10th Grade

1. Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* Growing up, I was often timid and never helped voice my opinion on topics I was passionate about. Dublin has an incredible sense of community and it creates an environment that is welcoming to everyone. The Youth Advisory Committee helps give aspiring teens a voice in Dublin's community which is vital to growing a strong and embracing place for everyone. I deeply enjoy doing community projects as well as service to gain a better sense of understanding around myself. Dublin has a rich history of giving back and serving its citizens, which is something I want to attend to. In the past, I shadowed multiple doctors near Tracy during the height of the pandemic. The experience was nothing I had ever experienced before and I learned the importance of communication, as well as teamwork. The fashion in which the nurses and doctors worked to effortlessly service those in need sparked an interest for me to pursue further. Service was also a huge part of my experience in shadowing as I had felt extremely fortunate to be able to help others when some couldn't. I wish to help give teens a voice on important issues that they feel passionate about and additionally create a nurturing environment for all. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

2. What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* I consider dedication and service my greatest strengths. Currently, I am a club officer at Dublin High School. MSF translates to "Doctors without Borders" and it is a worldwide organization that focuses on humanitarian assistance for everyone. As of now, we are planning a joint event with Berkeley MSF that contains speaker panels, interactive events, as well as networking on the UC Berkeley campus. Along with my shadowing, I've strived to give back to others, advertised club meetings and events, as well as gained lifelong experiences with others that have shaped me as a person. I have a knack for problem-solving and analytical problems, as I have placed nationally 3 times in Math Kangaroo competitions. In the future, I want to better apply my critical thinking skills to real-life scenarios. I have also swam for about 7 years on the Junior Gator Swim team. I've made countless memories there and I helped train myself to always look in a positive light. Somedays it was rough, however, I learned to be proud of the fact that I was there and actively trying. During my time swimming, I communicated my struggles as well as my goals with the coaches, striving to improve my communication skills and take initiative. My leadership skills are shown through community service, I have met tons of memorable people whether it was setting up the Dublin Elementary family dance, creating toys for cats at the SPCA, or simply picking up garbage around town. Time management and the ability to work under pressure are also key characteristics of me. Last year, I had planned a fundraiser in 2 weeks that had raised over $1,400 of crayons and children's books that were later repurposed or donated. One of the organizations we donated crayons to was the Crayon Initiative, which repurposes the crayons for children in hospitals. I contacted countless organizations, created advertisements to promote our donation drive, as well as educate others on crayons and books that affected children at a young age. Moreover, I am always more than willing to take up new challenges as I am currently dual enrolling in classes like medical terminology and public health, along with my normal school courses. I enjoy the community aspect of these classes and I have become well acquainted with people that have unique experiences to collaborate and create eloquent projects. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)
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3. What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC could address these issues?*
Bullying, especially on social media, has become rampant. I've read multiple articles that highlight the safety of young teens on social media. Many people tend to bully others on social media because they believe that if they're not saying it to them directly, it doesn't hurt them. This is not the case as many young vulnerable children are being put down with harsh comments and more. This is mainly due to how guardians are uneducated about social media, mostly because they had never grown up with it. I believe that the city can help educate parents as well as teens about social media so that they can stay cautious about the dangers but still enjoy the content. We can implement educational units in middle school or elementary classes for the children to comprehend early on about what they post/share online. This can further lead to community talks held at the library for parents that are willing to educate themselves about how social media works, the dangers, and how to address it with their children. I would also like to address the stigma of school and the amount of pressure that many young teens have to be "successful". Especially during college admissions as of now, many kids feel anxious and lost about the right steps to take for their needs. I've seen many students feel anxious about their performance in school, even having to stop continuing their hobbies or miss out on time with their friends to feel that they had done enough. It is extremely easy to get lost in the competitiveness of school, which is why we must support everyone and be proud of what they're doing. We should help eliminate the stigma of asking for help, whether it is from a friend or a trusted adult. In order to do this, I would give an abundant amount of opportunities during class for students to go to the wellness center for example, without feeling ashamed.

Sometimes the overwhelming amount of stress can come from families which I why I aim to educate not only students but also their families because often they do not know how to assist properly with care. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

4. What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2023-2024 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities?* Currently, I am looking for a job in the city that I can pursue for the rest of my high school career. I wish for a part-time position at a daycare or tutoring center to strengthen my ability to work well with children and people in general. Next year I will also continue my officer position for Dublin MSF. My goals for the club next year are to create a strong community-centered environment, collaborate with other MSF college branches, and lead my peers to focus on the importance of service.

Furthermore, one of my aspirations for next year is to earn the gold President's Volunteer Service Award by achieving over 100 service hours within a year. My main concentration as of now for next year however is my schoolwork, I plan to take 3 APs as well as continue my dual enrollment. I am more than willing to create time for monthly YAC meetings and activities as I desire to work with my community more on key issues that affect the lives of many. I anticipate bringing my experiences as well as my passion for others to every meeting.
(This boxcan be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

5. How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* Teen's brains are constantly developing, interactive learning fairs held at places like Dublin High School or the library could provide them with new views so that they develop high-leveled decision making. Advertising on commonly used apps like social media could help give our events a platform. I have a strong background of video editing as well as graphic design which has lead some of my projects to be successful. Many teens are still figuring out different aspects of their life. Activities like handson volunteering at daycares and interactive job fairs can help teens serve our community as well as discover skills that they enjoy doing. I remember attending a women's fair that was held at the high school 3 years ago. It included a general area with specialty booths filled with exciting demonstrations for jobs in the STEM field as well as personalized classrooms where we could learn more about specific jobs. Activities and events like these are crucial to a child's development as well as helping them figure out what they're passionate about. Earlier in the school year, I had helped my sister's club set up for an engineering fair which was hosted for 6th-9th graders. There were also various activities like game design, robotics, coding, and more. My main goal is to plan more events like these for all children and teens to get more involved with our community and see what they love to do. For older individuals, more job fairs and career-centered events are my focal point as well as getting more volunteers interested for our city. From my personal experience, events like the St. Patrick's Day fair as well as Splatter are extremely popular with young teens because there are tons of games and activities to spend quality time with their friends and family. Teenagers love spending time with others and more events like these are enticing to both teens and family. Advertising on social media sites is extremely necessary in order to get the attention of young teens. Emails through school are also useful, proved through the VAPA contest and now the Dublin High Pride poster contest. A specialized website with a calendar that shows events that are coming up can quickly claim the attention span of others. Navigating through a non eye-catching website can bore teens quickly as we want to focus on grabbing their attention span for as long as possible. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)
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6. Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting? If yes, what was the meeting date and what was the outcome of the item(s) you were interested in?* I viewed the March 7th regular council meeting. One of the topics mentioned was the proclamation for the American Red Cross month. The meeting was extremely fascinating and I was deeply invested in the time as well as the passion each council member had for our city. The Red Cross Organization is one that I deeply want to work with in the future and I admire the aid that they've helped provide to people across the world. Even though the proclamation was brief compared to other topics in the meeting, I was inspired by the organization as well as our wonderful city council to be fortunate for what I have and to always try my best, no matter what.
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8. A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Upload Letter of Recommendation (required).*
phoebe.pdf
Upload 2nd Letter of Recommendation (optional)
Phoebe Yee LOR.pdf
Application materials must be submitted via this online application form. The application deadline is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 24, 2023. Applications or letters of recommendation will not be accepted after the deadline. 1431
Michelle Reimer
Dublin High School
8151 Village Parkway
Dublin, CA 94568
March 22nd, 2023
Youth Advisory Committee
Dublin City Hall
100 Civic Plaza
Dublin, CA 94568
To Whom It May Concern,
I am happy to strongly and readily recommend Phoebe Yee for the Dublin Youth Advisory Committee.

My name is Michelle Reimer and I am Phoebe’s freshman English teacher this semester. I have loved working with Phoebe for the past several months and I have seen her consistently demonstrate many personal qualities that make her a great candidate for Dublin’s Youth Advisory Committee.

Phoebe is not only an excellent, responsible, and dedicated student, but she is also a lovely person and an integral member of my sixth period class. Phoebe persistently has a great work ethic and is one of my most diligent students across all of my classes. Her work is always very high quality and she clearly puts time and dedication into her studies.

In addition to her academic strengths, Phoebe also repeatedly demonstrates kindness, responsibility, and a keen ability to work well with others. Phoebe and her classmates have become a tightly knit group in my class, encouraging and supporting one another while also pushing one another to succeed. I have no doubt that Phoebe’s presence in my sixth period plays a large role in creating such a positive classroom environment for her peers and for myself.

I am confident that Phoebe would be an excellent fit for Dublin’s Youth Advisory Committee. Please feel free to email me if you have any further questions about this wonderful applicant.

Sincerely,
Michelle Reimer
English Teacher
Dublin High School
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March 5, 2022
To Whom it May Concern,
I am happy to recommend Phoebe Yee for Dublin's Youth Advisory Council. Phoebe is currently in my Introduction to Public Health Course at Foothill College. From the outset of the course, it was clear that Phoebe was bright and studious. These traits have become more obvious as she continues to excel in the course. I believe she will be highly successful in the future—and a fantastic addition to your council.

Phoebe completes her classwork with remarkable efficiency and ease, demonstrating an exceptionally strong work ethic. Learning new concepts related to public health often requires students to dedicate a large amount of time outside of class. Phoebe has been able to do this as a high school freshman, maintaining a 4.13 GPA. This is a remarkable feat, especially since the class is largely graduate students preparing to earn a master’s in public health.

Phoebe clearly has the ability and drive to balance her life, while striving to gain knowledge and help others in her community. Phoebe is a remarkable student and I recommend her without hesitation to the Dublin Youth Council.

Please reach out to me if you have any questions.

Sincerely,
Dr. Sally Baldwin
Professor, Biological and Health Sciences Division
Foothill Community College, Los Altos Hills, CA
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Application Submittal
Your completed application must be submitted via this online form. Application submittals must include the following items:

Questions
Please direct questions to Liz Eilliott, Recreation Supervisor, at 925-833-6645 or email First Name*
Anjali
Last Name*
Zalani
Street Address*
Print
Youth Advisory Committee Application 2023-2024 term - Submission #5862 Date Submitted: 3/24/2023
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City*
Dublin
State*
CA
Zip*
94568
Email Address*
Phone Number*
What school will you attend in the 2023-2024 school year?* Dublin High School
What grade will you be in during the 2023-2024 school year?* 11 1. Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* I want to become a member of the Youth Advisory Committee because I see students stressed about school, worries about their grades, and struggling under peer pressure and I want to make a change. The YAC seemed to be the best way to improve school life overall and give students the support they need. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

2. What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* I posses skills in helping people be involved. I can bring people into a conversation and make them feel welcome. I also am a very good mediator and facilitator but can take the role of a leader. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

3. What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC could address these issues?*
Currently teens are stressed and are under peer pressure. I want to change that. I believe YAC could have activities where students can get help from teachers or other peers to help them with school. There could also be an activity where they meet mentors, or other older teens to get advice from them.
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4. What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2023-2024 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities?* Currently I take two extracurricular, piano and tennis, and plan to start art again next school year. I also am apart of a few school clubs such as Chess. I will make time for YAC meetings each month since I am invested in it and can drop a club if need be. I am flexible with times and am good at time management. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

5. How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* I would spread the word about the activities through word of mouth and social media. I would encourage students to support their city and show them the benefits they get. Iâ€™ll help them meet new people and make connections which will encourage them to come again.
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6. Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting? If yes, what was the meeting date and what was the outcome of the item(s) you were interested in?* I have not attended one.
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8. A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Upload Letter of Recommendation (required).*
New Document.pdf
Upload 2nd Letter of Recommendation (optional)
Youth Advisory Committee - Anjali Zalani .docx
Application materials must be submitted via this online application form. The application deadline is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 24, 2023. Applications or letters of recommendation will not be accepted after the deadline. 1436
March 20, 2023
To Whom It May Concern:

It is my pleasure to have known Anjali Zalani and have them as part of my coaching team for the Wells Middle School Chess Program for months now. I am certain that they will make an excellent addition to the Youth Advisory Committee for the upcoming term.

To be a coach for a program that is constantly growing and adapting to the skills and requests of their students is difficult. However, during their time coaching for this program, they have proven that they did not shy away from the challenge. Despite starting a few months into the program, Anjali was able to pick up on the routine of the club and expectations for coaches quickly. They are one of my most hardworking coaches as they are always helping organize club activities and completing lesson plans that go above and beyond what I asked of them before the deadline. Anjali has high expectations for themselves and would not disappoint as a member of the Youth Advisory Council.

Anjali has been able to adapt to the requests of her students and provide them with fun and engaging lesson plans every week. They have shown an incredible set of leadership skills when teaching their group of students and when having to help organize events like in-club parties and tournaments. Because the 2022-23 year has been our club’s second year running, we are always trying to improve the club so we can provide the best program possible to young chess students. Anjali is always ready to help brainstorm and execute plans to expand the program.

Anjali is someone I can count on and I am confident that they will make a valuable contribution to the Youth Advisory Committee. If you have any questions or would like to discuss Anjali’s achievements in further detail, please don’t hesitate to contact me at

Sincerely,
Disha Seth
Founder and Lead of the Wells Middle School Chess Club
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1. -- Dublin Resident-- Enrolled as either a Junior or Senior in high school during the 2023-24 school year-- Student Representative Information Letter

1. -- Completed Application Form

2. -- At least two (2) Letters of Recommendation
The City of Dublin is looking for a motivated high school student, in junior or senior standing and living in Dublin, to serve as the Student Representative on the City's Parks and Community Services Commission ) for the 2023-2024 term, which runs from July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024. Application deadline is Friday, March 24, 2023, at 5:00 PM. LATE APPLICATIONS WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED.

Qualifications and General Information
Letter of Recommendation
Your application must include two (2) letters of recommendation from non-family members (i.e., employer, counselor, teacher, coach, etc.) and must be signed. The letters of recommendation should be submitted with the application and must be received by the application deadline; otherwise, the application will be incomplete.

Application Submittal
Your completed application must be submitted via this online application form. Application submittals must include the following items:

Questions
Please direct questions to Liz Elliott, Recreation Supervisor, at (925) 556-4500 or email First Name*
Esha
Last Name*
Shenoy
Print
Student Representative to the Parks and Community Services Commission 2023-2024 Term - Submission #5801
Date Submitted: 3/24/2023
Attachment 2
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Street Address*
City*
Dublin
State*
California
Zip*
94568
Email Address*
Phone Number*
What high school are you currently attending?*
Dublin High School
What high school will you be attending in the 2023-2024 school year?* Dublin High School
What grade (Junior or Senior only) will you be during the 2023-2024 school year?* Junior

1. Why are you interested in serving on the Parks and Community Services Commission?* I am interested in the Parks and Community Services Commission as I want to give back to my community as much as possible as the positive Dublin community has shaped me into who I am today. I have seen, through my experiences as a member and Vice Chair of the Youth Advisory Council, that the Commission partakes and hosts in multiple city-related activities and is a large, unrecognized part of Dublin residentsâ€™ lives. Having spent the latter part of my childhood in Dublin, I have been able to integrate myself more with my society by volunteering at events like the Harvest Fair and hanging out at the Farmerâ€™s Market with my friend. As the Dublin community has given me multiple memorable experiences, I hope to be part of the commission to fulfill my civic duty to my community by giving back and making a positive and beneficial impact on the town as well as the people.
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2. What is the most important contribution you can make to the Commission?* The most important contribution I can make to the Commission would be bringing a studentâ€™s, a teenagerâ€™s view. By being the only student on the commission, I would represent my fellow peers as well as Dublinâ€™s youth and give them a voice in our government. I hope that, by being part of the commission, I can educate my peers about our government, which I have seen is not very well known by the youth of Dublin. By interacting with those on the commission as well as my peers, I would be able to help communicate the ideas between generations much more clearly, allowing the ideas produced by the commission to become more impactful and beneficial to all Dublin residents. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

Dublin City CouncilJune 6, 2023

Dublin City Council
June 6, 2023