Agenda packet — Dublin City Council, May 21, 2024 (part 2 of 3)

March 19, 2024

To Whom It May Concern,

It is my pleasure to tell you about an amazing volunteer, Jasmitha Levey Baskar whom has been a volunteer at the Dublin Library since May 31, 2022, but has been an integral workforce to the library and is part of my leadership team for the Teen Advisory Group (TAG). I have worked with many teen volunteers as the teen librarian at the Dublin Library and my previous position, and Jasmitha has stood out as an exceptional volunteer. She has helped with many different programs; TAG, AP Study Sessions, Grab and Go Craft creation/brainstorm, and Escape Room to name a few. She has completed 250 hours with the Dublin Library since becoming a volunteer.

Jasmitha has been an invaluable asset to our volunteer program and the TAG. She is polite, friendly, and welcoming to everyone she meets. She has helped with many family events such as the 20 Year Birthday Celebration for the library and helped me coordinate the volunteers to direct them to their posts during the event and handled the shift change. Jasmitha has helped to run the TAG meetings as part of the leadership team and helped run orientations for incoming volunteers as well as helping with training/leading the new leadership volunteers who will take over with her in the new school year.

Jasmitha is a very creative person and has created craft instructions for some of our Grab and Go Crafts as well as study guides for the AP study sessions. She has many great ideas for programming in the library that will not only benefit youth, but also draw more individuals to the library. She has been working with the TAG to create teen led programming such as School Up Seminar where teens and graduates talked about paths after high school. She has been an exceptional ambassador for the library.

I am very pleased to write a letter of reference for Jasmitha, and recommend her highly for the Youth Advisory Committee. If you require any more information, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Sincerely,
Susan Gardner
Teen Librarian
Dublin Library

Attachment 1
308
Youth Advisory Committee 2024 - 2025
Term Application
The Youth Advisory Committee consists of 13 members and three alternate members who serve a one-year term. This Committee is a positive and creative youth-driven forum that gives Dublin teens a way to provide input on programs and activities offered by the City. The Youth Advisory Committee Bylaws and Rules of Procedure govern the meetings and activities of the Committee.

Youth Advisory Committee Bylaws and Rules of Procedure govern the meetings and activities.

To browse past Agendas and Minutes for the Commission, visit the City's Online Records Portal.

Youth Advisory Committee Information Letter
Please acknowledge that you have downloaded and read the Youth Advisory Committee Information Letter regarding regular meeting dates, and other commitments required as a committee member. * Yes
Date Time*
3/28/2024
First Name *
Nicole
Last Name *
Ma
Address *
Street Address
Address Line 2
City
Dublin
State/Province/Region
California
Postal/Zip Code
94568
Country
United States
Phone (Primary) * Phone (Secondary)
E-mail - Please do not use a DUSD email *
What school will you attend in the 2024-2025 school year? * Dublin High School
What grade will you be in during the 2024-2025 school year? * 11 Application Questions
Attachment 1
309
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.

Teachers, counselors, and coaches can email the letter of recommendation directly to [email protected] by March 29, 2024 by 5:00 pm.

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 make a meaningful impact on the community.

When I was in elementary school, I always loved participating in the Kids Against Hunger food packing event that my school hosted, constantly looking forward to it and wishing the event wouldn't end. I carried this energy with me as I grew up and still love giving back to the community to this day, participating in community events as much as I can. I also see this as an opportunity to grow as a person, as I will personally see how our city communicates, organizes, and decides on events to hold and I believe this will help me in the future immensely.

What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* Skills that I possess that would make me a good candidate for the YAC are leadership, teamwork, creativity, problem solving, and organizational skills.

What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC can address these issues? *
Issues I believe teens in Dublin are currently dealing with are depression, stress, and mental health issues in general. Mental health has slowly become a serious issue in our society and is continuing to grow in severity by the day. I have both heard about this through diﬀerent media outlets and personally witnessed, as well as experienced this as well. My friends and classmates are heard stressing or talking about grades, school, extracurriculars, etc. constantly and I wish to help teens explore the more positive aspects of life once in a while. I think the YAC can address these issues by holding events that speciﬁcally target teens, whether it is through making it engaging for them or making it an opportunity for them to simultaneously give back to the community and have fun with their friends and new people.

What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2024-2025 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities? * I am currently involved in an art program with Breaking BEARriers Youth Leadership Club called "Art From the Heart" which I founded mid- 2023. This program uses arts and crafts as a way to give back to the community, including the disadvantaged groups. I have held multiple events through this program and participated in Dublin Splatter, where we caught the attention of Habitat for Humanity EBSV, who invited us to participate in the 2023 Cycle of Hope fundraising event held by Habitat for Humanity. In these two events, me and my team oﬀered free face painting that attracted over 200 attendees in each event. Art From the Heart also partnered with Yang Fan Academy and launched a free art enrichment afterschool program to elementary school students. Art From the Heart is planning to expand and collaborate with the military and will start the planning process for this very soon. I also led Breaking BEARriers to join the Dublin People of the Park (P .O.P) annual program in 2023, cleaning up Dublin parks multiple times a month. I will be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities.

These interests can range from common interests such as shows and games to opportunities for enrichment and volunteering as a vast majority of teens are eager to give back to the community. Using these interests, I would focus on advertising in places that more teens will view in order to prevent teens from brushing over the events and losing opportunities. For example, using social media accounts or asking committee members to advertise around their own school and with their friends or classmates. Teens often turn away from volunteering activities because they seem "cringy" or unimportant, which can be prevented by making these activities engaging for them.

Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting?* No
If yes, what was the meeting date and outcome
A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Attachment 1
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Applications must be submitted no later than
Friday, March 29, 2024, at 5:00 p.m.

For questions, please contact the Parks and Community Service's Department at (925) 556-4500 or [email protected] Attachment 1
311
Christy Li
Chair – Dublin Senior Center Advisory Committee

03/28/2024

Dear Dublin Youth Advisory Committee,
I am writing to wholeheartedly recommend Nicole Ma who is a sophomore student in DHS for the position of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee Member. I have had the privilege of knowing Nicole for 3 years as her leadership development adult mentor. Through several community service projects which we worked on together, I have witnessed her leadership skills developing, dedication to community service, and passion for advocating on behalf of youth issues.

Nicole's commitment to making a positive impact on her community is unparalleled. She actively engages in various community service projects, demonstrating her strong sense of desire to contribute meaningfully to the betterment of society. One thing I am really proud of Nicole is that she successfully founded “Art From The Heart”- a program which missioned to spread love and sunshine together through art in the local area. The program soonly attracted a group of her peers to join. With Nicole’s strong leadership, the team organized multiple activities and events throughout the year to give back to tri-valley, and especially to Dublin communities. For example, Nicole led the team and oƯered free face painting to support the Dublin Splatter event. The team served over 200 event attendees and brought so much joy to the event. During the holiday season, Nicole and the team oƯered two major family Art & Craft events to the community, more than one hundred kids and their families beneﬁted from their free and fun activities. Moreover, the success of “Art from The Heart '' also caught other NPOs' eyes. Habitat for Humanity EBSV invited Nicole and her team to support their 2023 Cycle of Hope fundraising event in Dublin. During the event, Nicole and the team served several hundred attendees with their free art and face painting activities. The event successfully raised $250k. With the high-quality contribution to the event, the team earned a 2024 event partnership with Habitat for Humanity Org.

The other Nicole's standout quality is her ability to communicate articulately and empathetically with people of all backgrounds. She listens attentively to diƯerent perspectives, fosters constructive dialogue, and advocates for inclusive policies that address the needs of all community members, especially youth.

I have no doubt that Nicole's energy, creativity, and dedication will make her an invaluable asset to the Dublin Youth Advisory Committee. Her vision for empowering youth, promoting civic engagement, and addressing important issues facing our community aligns perfectly with the committee's objectives.

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In conclusion, I highly recommend Nicole Ma for the Dublin Youth Advisory Committee Member position without reservation. Her leadership potential, passion for service, and ability to inspire positive change make her an outstanding candidate.

Thank you for considering Nicole for this important role. Should you require any further information, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Sincerely,
Christy Li
Christy Li
Attachment 1
313
Youth Advisory Committee 2024 - 2025
Term Application
The Youth Advisory Committee consists of 13 members and three alternate members who serve a one-year term. This Committee is a positive and creative youth-driven forum that gives Dublin teens a way to provide input on programs and activities offered by the City. The Youth Advisory Committee Bylaws and Rules of Procedure govern the meetings and activities of the Committee.

Youth Advisory Committee Bylaws and Rules of Procedure govern the meetings and activities.

To browse past Agendas and Minutes for the Commission, visit the City's Online Records Portal.

Youth Advisory Committee Information Letter
Please acknowledge that you have downloaded and read the Youth Advisory Committee Information Letter regarding regular meeting dates, and other commitments required as a committee member. * Yes
Date Time*
3/29/2024
First Name *
Satvik
Last Name *
Marthi
Address *
Street Address
Address Line 2
City
Dublin
State/Province/Region
California
Postal/Zip Code
94568-7327
Country
United States
Phone (Primary) * Phone (Secondary)
E-mail - Please do not use a DUSD email *
What school will you attend in the 2024-2025 school year? * Dublin High School
What grade will you be in during the 2024-2025 school year? * 12 Application Questions
Attachment 1
314
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.

Teachers, counselors, and coaches can email the letter of recommendation directly to [email protected] by March 29, 2024 by 5:00 pm.

Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* Being a resident at Dublin for over ﬁve years has given me an appreciation for the diversity and inclusivity that Dublin oﬀers its residents.

When I originally moved to Dublin, it was a nerve-racking experience as to how I would ﬁt in with Dublin culture. My family had no relatives or friends that lived in Dublin, so it would be a fresh start for my 11-year old self. I was worried about how I would make new friends in this new city I had no experience with before, but excited at the new opportunities that the city of Dublin oﬀers. Five years later, I have made my strongest friends in Dublin with lifelong memories at the Wave, hanging out at Fallon Sports Park, and late night strolls in Dublin commercial plazas. Motivated by the Hindu value of giving back to the community that raised you, becoming a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee provides me with an opportunity to actively engage with the local community, contribute to decision-making processes, and participate in initiatives that beneﬁt youth and the broader population of Dublin. I am excited to engage in meaningful seminars with my talented teenage peers, discussing and addressing the issues that impact Dublin. Serving on Dublin YAC will allow me to represent the diverse perspectives, concerns, and interests of Dublin's diverse youth demographic. I know that joining Dublin YAC provides me with an avenue to make a positive, tangible diﬀerence in the Dublin community by initiating projects, organizing events, and implementing strategies to address relevant issues. I look forward to being able to make a positive impact in the Dublin community while having the opportunity to network with fellow youth leaders, local Dublin oﬃcials, and community advocates. As a Santa Clara University Young Scholar and University of Notre Dame Global Scholar, I hope to create an intersection of Santa Clara and Notre Dame’s values of a culture of service with Dublin’s commitment to diversity and inclusion. Not only will Dublin YAC provide me with an outlet to create a meaningful impact in my community, but I will gain invaluable learning experience about local government processes, policy making, and community development. Dublin YAC will provide insight on how resources are allocated and the challenges that are tackled at a municipal level. I know that becoming a member of Dublin YAC and contributing to the betterment of my community will instill a sense of pride and civic responsibility within myself. As a Dublin YAC committee member, I will be actively participating in shaping the future of my community, amplifying the voices of young people, and making meaningful contributions to society.

What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* I know that joining Dublin YAC will demand a diverse set of skills essential for eﬀective participation and meaningful contributions. It is integral that Dublin YAC committee members possess leadership qualities to ensure the success of the council. As a Santa Clara University Young Scholar, I would study economics under Dr. Cameron-Loyd while discussing avenues for Santa Clara University to positively impact the county of Santa Clara. Santa Clara University is a wealthier university, with over 90% of its students originating from aﬄuent backgrounds.

However, due to the fact that Santa Clara county has some of the highest standard of living of costs within California, many of the less fortunate residents struggle in poverty, impacting their education. Mentored by Dr. Cameron-Loyd, I would be introduced to possible economic initiatives that Santa Clara University can undergo to positively impact the education sector of Santa Clara University. As a Santa Clara University Young Scholar, I would be instilled with Jesuit values of service to even the most disadvantaged members to “build a more humane, just, faith-ﬁlled, and sustainable world.” My time with Dr. Cameron-Loyd and Santa Clara University would prompt me to become the ﬁrst and only high schooler of Santa Clara University’s Community Action Program (SCCAP). The SCCAP is dedicated to the continued progress and success of Santa Clara county through organizing various events, activities, and fundraisers aimed at supporting the most disadvantaged members of the community. Within Dublin High School, I am the Vice-President of the Artiﬁcial Intelligence Club, Vice- President of the Technology Student Association Club, and Director of Finance for Dublin DECA. As Director of Finance for Dublin DECA, I would be tasked with managing all the monetary funds that Dublin DECA accumulates and properly allocating these costs to ensure that the funds are not misused. Fortunately, this year Dublin DECA was able to send 15 students–including myself– to the prestigious DECA International Career Development Conference with the chapter able to oﬀer a $300 travel scholarship to each of the qualiﬁers. In addition to possessing leadership qualities, Dublin YAC members should be able to eﬀectively manage their time. As an athlete with two-hour practices, six days a week, time management and teamwork has been instrumental in my success socially, academically, and physically. I know how to prioritize tasks and meet deadlines in a diligent manner, to not hinder the success of myself or any organization I lead. Dublin is a diverse community, with its residents originating from across the nation and world. It is important that Dublin YAC members understand and embrace this diversity because Dublin’s greatest strength is its interconnectedness of various cultures. Becoming a member of Dublin YAC means that I need to also be adaptable and creative, to address community issues.

What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC can address these issues? *
While Dublin has proved one the most progressive and prosperous cities in the nation this past decade, there still exist lingering issues amongst Dublin youth that impact their well-being, development, and future prospects. The primary issue aﬀecting Dublin teens is mental health. Dublin residents tend to be more aﬄuent and place a greater importance on education causing many Dublin teenagers to suﬀer from the academic pressure that is associated with high-achieving high schools. Bottling up these academic pressures has an adverse eﬀect on Dublin teenagers with stress, anxiety, and depression prevalent amongst Dublin youth. Dublin teenagers not only suﬀer mental health Attachment 1
315
issues from academic pressure, but social media and societal expectations as well. The growth of the internet has propelled society into the digital age, expanding communication and accessibility to information. However, the growth of social media has also led to growth of cyberbullying attacks and online shaming. Developing mental health awareness campaigns within the community as well as Dublin High School can have a positive impact on the mental health of Dublin teenagers. The campaigns will be aimed at the education of the severity of mental health issues and providing the necessary support for Dublin youth who may feel isolated. Having peer support groups, interactive workshops, and inviting mental health professionals and counselors, can increase the social morale amongst Dublin youth to help them combat any mental health issues they may be struggling with. In addition to mental health concerns, similar to other high schools across the nations, substance abuse remains prominent amongst Dublin youth. Substance abuse comes in the form of underage drinking, vaping, and in extreme cases, illicit drug usage. I was especially disheartened and disturbed when I heard news that a Dublin high school student had almost overdosed on ecstacy. After hearing this depressing story, I knew I wanted to address this situation. My mother, who commutes to San Francisco, had already told me about the horror stories of open drug use and dealings on the streets of San Francisco. I would become an intern at Think Neuro, a health education organization aimed at creating a positive change in neurological space. I would become an intern for one of Think Neuro’s projects that conducts opioid education outreach in the county of San Bernardino. My experience as an intern with Think Neuro would teach me that many drug abusers do so out of isolation and fear. To address and mitigate substance abuse amongst Dublin youth, I would conduct educational outreach campaigns that aim at teaching the youth about the adverse eﬀects of alcohol, vapes, and drugs. Additionally, I would aim to implement peer education programs and partnerships with the school to integrate substance abuse education into the curriculum. These eﬀorts are preventative measures to ensure that Dublin youth do not become substance abusers, however a reactionary response would be helping these Dublin youth members understand that they are wanted and welcomed. Giving Dublin youth members a sense of purpose and community aﬀection, will help them wane oﬀ the substance they may be addicted to.

What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2024-2025 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities? * I am grateful for the welcoming environment that Dublin introduced me to, and will certainly be able to devote the necessary time each month to attack Dublin YAC meetings and organize Dublin YAC activities.

Activities during 2024-2025 school year:
-Cross Country and Track and Field
-Small eCommerce Business owner on eBay and Etsy
-Director of Finance Dublin DECA
-Vice-President of Dublin Technology Student Association -Vice-President of Dublin Artiﬁcial Intelligence Club
-Dublin High School Wellness Ambassador
-Pursuing my Pilot’s License
How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* As a Dublin YAC member, I know the importance of getting other teens involved in the community, teen events, and other City-sponsored events. Increasing Dublin teen engagement requires a multi-faceted approach that takes into account their interests and needs. Conducting surveys and focus groups will be a great way to both increase teen engagement as well as obtaining input on what activities and events Dublin teens want to see. Dublin YAC can utilize this data to plan events that cater towards these interests. Teenagers have become increasingly immersed in the realm of social media. Leveraging social media platforms such as Instagram, Snapchat, and TikTok can promote events targeted towards Dublin teenagers. An additional way to achieve youth engagement in the Dublin community would be having Dublin YAC collaborate with Dublin High School student organizations. Numerous Dublin High School organizations already have active engagement by their members, and collaborating with these organizations to facilitate events will create an incentive for Dublin youth participation.

Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting?* No
If yes, what was the meeting date and outcome M h 27 2024 Th t i i d iti t d i A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Applications must be submitted no later than
Friday, March 29, 2024, at 5:00 p.m.

For questions, please contact the Parks and Community Service's Department at (925) 556-4500 or [email protected] Attachment 1
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March 25, 2024
To Whom It May Concern:

It is with great pleasure that I recommend Satvik Reddy Marthi for Student Representative Dublin Youth Advisory Commission!
First, an introduction: I am Brad Vereen, Advanced Placement (AP) Chemistry teacher at Dublin High School (DHS) in the Dublin Unified School District in Dublin, CA. I have been a teacher for 23 years, at levels ranging from 6 th grade science to lecturing in graduate courses in the School of Business and Economics at CSU East Bay.

Satvik is my AP Chemistry student. 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, Satvik is responsible and dedicated. His demeanor is friendly and calm towards both peers and teachers. In addition, Satvik is approachable, coachable, and he is a helper to his classmates. Also notable is Satvik’s performance as a safe, efficient, and productive lab investigator .

Out of class, I have personally observed Satvik’s good sportsmanship and competitive spirit as a member of the Dublin High School Cross Country team. I also know that Satvik participates positively in a variety of extracurricular activities, and activities outside of school.

If I were looking for a bright young STEM student in a community service role, I would seek out Satvik Reddy Marthi. He is a very talented and adaptable student who will complement any organization he wishes to join. Please contact me at if I can answer any further questions about Satvik’s qualifications. www.dublinusd.org/dhs
Attachment 1
317
Youth Advisory Committee 2024 - 2025
Term Application
The Youth Advisory Committee consists of 13 members and three alternate members who serve a one-year term. This Committee is a positive and creative youth-driven forum that gives Dublin teens a way to provide input on programs and activities offered by the City. The Youth Advisory Committee Bylaws and Rules of Procedure govern the meetings and activities of the Committee.

Youth Advisory Committee Bylaws and Rules of Procedure govern the meetings and activities.

To browse past Agendas and Minutes for the Commission, visit the City's Online Records Portal.

Youth Advisory Committee Information Letter
Please acknowledge that you have downloaded and read the Youth Advisory Committee Information Letter regarding regular meeting dates, and other commitments required as a committee member. * Yes
Date Time*
3/29/2024
First Name *
Isha
Last Name *
Matlapudi
Address *
Street Address
Address Line 2
City
Dublin
State/Province/Region
CA
Postal/Zip Code
94568
Country
United States
Phone (Primary) * Phone (Secondary)
E-mail - Please do not use a DUSD email *
What school will you attend in the 2024-2025 school year? * Dublin High School
What grade will you be in during the 2024-2025 school year? * 11 Application Questions
Attachment 1
318
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.

Isha Matlapudi_ Letter of Recommendation (YAC)_ 2024.pdf 60.8KB Isha_LOR.pdf 212.78KB
Teachers, counselors, and coaches can email the letter of recommendation directly to [email protected] by March 29, 2024 by 5:00 pm.

Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* My desire to be a member of YAC stems from a desire to not only further my leadership skills outside of school but also become involved in local government. YAC provides the best environment to foster these skills and allow me to impact the community signiﬁcantly. YAC also appeals to my sense of civic responsibility, a necessary skill among the youth. All these factors have signiﬁcantly inﬂuenced my interest in this application as the position manages to reach every facet of my ambition.

What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* Skills such as leadership, adaptability, critical thinking, and communication are precisely what make me a strong candidate for this position.

Being in leadership programs at school and taking on leadership programs outside of school such as running a chapter of an NPO have taught me to understand what it means to demonstrate leadership. Leadership is deﬁned as the ability to balance taking charge with allowing others to seek opportunities. This skill will work well in YAC as the position not only requires strong cooperation skills with others but also an ability to take imitative to ﬁnish the task. In addition to leadership, my adaptability has pushed me to understand how to quickly think on my feet and generate eﬀective solutions to problems with my peers. Through maintaining a job in catering I have been taught the importance of adaptability as things don't always go your way. Over time, I have further developed and expanded this skill to apply to diﬀerent aspects of my life which believe would be very beneﬁcial in the context of YAC.

What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC can address these issues? *
Issues such as extreme academic pressure and lack of representation are problems that continue to plague the youth of Dublin. In such a competitive environment is common for students in the Dublin Area to feel stressed out. Although this pursuit of academic excellence is something that explains the great success among Dublin Scholars it also adds to a shared feeling of anxiety. That is why organizations like YAC need to take proactive measures by supporting mental health initiatives and perhaps even creating common study groups in public resources like our library.

What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2024-2025 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities? * I am involved in a global NPO dedicated to achieving the UN's SDG and a competitive choir. I also plan to participate in school-sponsored sports as I have in years past. Although all the extracurriculars above are pretty time-consuming, I have managed to organize my time eﬀectively, and Tuesdays are days when I have no prior commitments.

How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* I belive partnering with schools to promote community events is very useful in gaining young attendees. Although this aspect is far more appealing to the young populations, proving service hours is far more eﬀective in the context of tweens/teens. However, the most eﬃcient way to gain youth participation is through simply reaching out to teens and asking them what they would want to see in school events or what would incentivize them to come.

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Applications must be submitted no later than
Friday, March 29, 2024, at 5:00 p.m.

For questions, please contact the Parks and Community Service's Department at (925) 556-4500 or [email protected] Attachment 1
320
March 29, 2024

Dear Youth Advisory Council :

It is with great pleasure that I enthusiastically recommend Isha for the 2024-2025 term of the Youth Advisory Committee.

My name is Jasneet Kaur Matta and I am currently a Computer Science and Cybersecurity teacher at Dublin High School. I have pleasure of teaching and working closely with Isha this year in my Computer Science Essentials course.

During our time together, I have consistently been impressed by Isha intelligence, dedication, and passion. She possesses a unique combination of natural charisma, strong communication skills, and strategic thinking. Having closely worked with her throughout the year, I have also been a first-hand witness to his exceptional leadership abilities. She is well respected by her team members and peers for her natural ability to inspire and motivate those around her towards a common goal. Her ability to problem-solve and effectively communicate her vision and goals makes me believe that She will be very successful on the Youth Advisory Committee.

Isha passions extend well beyond the classroom as well. During just her Sophmore year, I have seen Isha dedication and commitment to a variety of clubs and school activities It is for all of these reasons and more that I believe Isha 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,
Jasneet Kaur Matta
Computer Science & Cybersecurity Teacher
Department Chair
Dublin High School
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To Whom it May Concern,
My name is Patrick Kleinow and I am writing to recommend Isha Matlapudi for the Dublin Y outh Advisory Council. I am Isha’s current English 10 Advanced teacher and have a keen insight into both her academic strengths and social skills.

Isha is a hardworking student who strives to always improve in her academics. She is consistently among the top writers in my advanced English 10 class. Despite scoring high, she still pushes herself to improve her writing, adding more depth to analysis and complexity to her writing. Likewise, Isha engages in class discussions. She freely raises her hand for a question or offers her opinion on a topic. She is not shy about speaking her mind.

Isha is also very skilled socially. Isha works well with all types of students, and finds herself friends with the entire class. She is welcoming to new students and patient with everyone. Her kindness and humor ensure she makes connections with anyone she meets.

Isha Matlapudi is a driven and kind student that will make an excellent addition to the Dublin Y outh Advisory Council. She works hard and connects well with those around her. I fully recommend her for this position.

Thank you for your time,
Patrick Kleinow
March 22, 2024
DHS English Department Department Lead
www.dublinusd.org/dhs
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322
Youth Advisory Committee 2024 - 2025
Term Application
The Youth Advisory Committee consists of 13 members and three alternate members who serve a one-year term. This Committee is a positive and creative youth-driven forum that gives Dublin teens a way to provide input on programs and activities offered by the City. The Youth Advisory Committee Bylaws and Rules of Procedure govern the meetings and activities of the Committee.

Youth Advisory Committee Bylaws and Rules of Procedure govern the meetings and activities.

To browse past Agendas and Minutes for the Commission, visit the City's Online Records Portal.

Youth Advisory Committee Information Letter
Please acknowledge that you have downloaded and read the Youth Advisory Committee Information Letter regarding regular meeting dates, and other commitments required as a committee member. * Yes
Date Time*
3/28/2024
First Name *
Aarna
Last Name *
Mehra
Address *
Street Address
Address Line 2
City
Dublin
State/Province/Region
California
Postal/Zip Code
94568
Country
United States of America
Phone (Primary) * Phone (Secondary)
E-mail - Please do not use a DUSD email *
What school will you attend in the 2024-2025 school year? * Emerald High School
What grade will you be in during the 2024-2025 school year? * 9th grade
Application Questions
Attachment 1
323
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.

Aarna Mehra LOR .pdf 190.25KB
Recommendation Letter Aarna Mehra for Dublin YAC.pdf 44.65KB Teachers, counselors, and coaches can email the letter of recommendation directly to [email protected] by March 29, 2024 by 5:00 pm.

Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* To begin with, I would like to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee because I love helping others, it gives me eternal joy. Since childhood I have aspired to be a doctor and have always wanted a job in the medical ﬁeld. However, there is a big diﬀerence between wanting to do something and actively doing it. I would like to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee because I believe that I can make a diﬀerence in someone's life and be the change I want to see. Dublin has been my home for a great majority of my life and I wish to give back to the community that has been responsible for my own personal growth. The Youth Advisory Committee has the potential to change the lives of teens all around Dublin! However, there are still some issues that teens living in Dublin currently face (such as stress and pressure), but I believe that if everyone comes together, these issues can be solved. The best way to succeed in this mission of eradicating the problems that teens face and of showing teens that they are not alone is by uniting Dublin's citizens through various programs and events and by bringing attention to these complications. I know that if given the chance to serve on the Youth Advisory Committee, I won't disappoint and that I will be able to make a real diﬀerence in the lives of the people who are a part of the community that have always been there to help and support me.

What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* Few skills I possess that would make me a strong candidate for the YAC include my communication skills, my knowledge regarding current day political issues, and my traits as a team player. I am the vice president of the World Aﬀairs Club at Fallon Middle School and I work with my fellow oﬃcers to keep our club running. In addition, I am a current member of the Competitive Speech and Debate team at Fallon Middle School and have learned to analyze information such as statistics related to the economy and have learnt the importance of working as a team thanks to this position. The middle school public debate program's format consists of three roles: the ﬁrst speaker, the second speaker, and the rebuttalist. Over the 2023-2024 school year, I have primarily been the rebuttalist on my team. The importance of my role is that I must work with my teammates so that I understand their assertions and am able to rebuild them in the face of my opponent's rebuttal. This role has, in turn, sharpened my communication skills with my teammates and my ability to not only analyze the ﬂaws in our arguments, but the ways I can improve and strengthen them. Some topics that we have debated in this school year include: Club Sports For Students K-12 Do More Good Than Harm, the SCOTUS Should Have Term Limits, and the USFG Should Repeal Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act.

These topics have allowed me to strengthen my skills related to research and my capability to analyze the impact that these policies have had on the economy and the mental and physical well being of teens and adults. Debate has additionally proved to increase my communication skills both inside and outside the classroom. For example, my position on the debate team further opened my eyes to the current social injustices that certain marginalized groups face based on their gender, economic standing, and physical ability. As a result of this, I realized that I wanted to help anyone struggling with these issues and it led to my decision to join a non-proﬁt organization called Rediscovering STEM. My position in this organization allowed me to work alongside other passionate volunteers and educate students with disabilities who face the diﬃculty in learning in the ﬁeld of STEM. I worked with another volunteer to grow this program and was able to introduce this project at Fallon Middle School. I also ﬁnd it extremely fulﬁlling to try and help people whenever I can. To illustrate, whenever a friend of mine struggles with a topic that I understand, I ﬁnd that explaining the topic in terms which my friend may understand actually helps strengthen my own knowledge pertaining to the topic. Finally, one of the most important traits I possess is that I do not balk from my failures. While I do not play the sport on a competitive level, I thoroughly enjoy playing basketball with my neighbors. Despite my love for the sport, I have proven that I miss a lot more shots than the ones I make. I think that my enjoyment of the sport lies speciﬁcally in the little skill I possess to make shots. Since I don't make a lot of shots, it means that there is a lot of room for improvement and that I can always develop and build on my ability to succeed in the sport.

What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC can address these issues? *
Currently, I believe that an issue that is not addressed enough when it comes to teens not only in Dublin, but across the country, is their mental and physical well being. While the COVID lock down may have ended, teens still lost at least a year of their life to the event. Before the lock down oﬃcially started, I distinctly remember being a fourth grader who loved playing outside with my friends and neighbors. However, after COVID became a growing and pressing issue, I remember being told that I was no longer allowed to play with my friends. This marked the beginning of the emotional roller coaster that COVID was. A primary issue that the lock down presented was the isolation that it introduced to people of all ages. This isolation in turn brought the mental health of teens to an even lower level than it might have already been. And even after the lock down ended and schools began to open, people were still required to wear masks and couldn't even see the Attachment 1
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faces of their beloved friends. When school opened back up, my grade was suddenly entering middle school. While it is true that COVID stole a whole entire year away from individuals, it is extremely important that we recognize and help any teens that are struggling. In addition, teens are constantly under pressure and many of them actively admit to stress being a new normal for them. Stress and pressure are clearly not good and they hinder the goal of possessing a healthy lifestyle. As if these issues aren't enough, teens also suﬀer due to the fact that they don't receive enough representation and are forced to make signiﬁcant decisions regarding their futures and what pathways they would like to pursue in order to lead a successful life. These issues are extremely signiﬁcant to address in order to beneﬁt the present and future well being of teens. A few ways the Youth Advisory Committee can help with these issues are to organize programs and events that promote social and emotional well being and events that focus on how teens can deal with stress and anxiety. To add on, we can organize events such as career days that allow for teens to explore diﬀerent job opportunities so that they get a better understanding of what jobs they may want to pursue and whatﬁelds these teens may choose to go into. These solutions can not only beneﬁt teens but our community as a whole.

What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2024-2025 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities? * As aforementioned, I am a volunteer and oﬃcer for the rediscovering STEM nonproﬁt and I plan on extending the reach of the organization to Emerald High School this year so that we can spread the wonders of STEM to students who may not have the opportunity to participate in such activities. In addition to this, I plan on joining the Speech and Debate club at EHS since I truly enjoy debate. Regardless, I am certain that I will have more than enough time to contribute to the Youth Advisory Committee and not only serve but give back to my community.

How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* One of the major issues and reasons why teens aren't involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities is that teens simply are not aware of the presence of these events. By simply bringing more attention to these events, more teens will be more willing to participate and become a part of them. We can do this by reaching out to schools and having them post information on their websites or newsletters. In addition, we can also advertise these events on social media and also promote these events by word of mouth. By doing this, the visibility and knowledge of the presence of these events will increase and more teens will become incentivized to participate in them.

Applications must be submitted no later than
Friday, March 29, 2024, at 5:00 p.m.

For questions, please contact the Parks and Community Service's Department at (925) 556-4500 or [email protected] Attachment 1
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March 28, 2024
Recommendation Letter for Aarna Mehra for Dublin YAC
To whom it may concern,
It is my pleasure to write this letter of recommendation for Aarna Mehra to serve as a member of the Dublin YAC. I have known Aarna as a student in my math classroom since August, 2022.

Aarna has many great qualities: she is cheerful, respectful and hard-working, she is a valuable, contributing member of a team, and she is also able to work independently at high levels.

Aarna’s best quality is her unwavering persistence and need to fully understand when she is confused about a concept. She is very good at identifying what she does not understand and asking specific questions to help her better understand so she does not make the same mistake again. Aarna is also more than willing to help others when she has knowledge about a particular concept that someone else is struggling to understand.

Aarna’s dedication to learning is evidenced by maintaining a 4.0 GPA for all three years of middle school so far.

For the reasons stated above, I recommend Aarna Mehra to serve as a member of the Dublin YAC. She is a great choice and will serve as a valuable addition to this council.

Best Regards,
Kimberl
Carlso
Math Teacher
Fallon Middle School
Dublin, CA 94568
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Eleanor Murray Fallon
Middle School
Candice Bailgaya, Principal 3601 Kohnen Way
Patricia Causapin, 6th Grade Assistant Principal Dublin, CA. 94568 Cheryl Di Grazia, 7th Grade Assistant Principal
Mu’tasim Yassin, 8th Grade Assistant Principal FAX
T o Whom It May Concern,
I am writing to wholeheartedly recommend Aarna Mehra for consideration as a member of the Y outh Advisory Committee. I have had the pleasure of working closely with Aarna over the past year , and I am continually impressed by her dedication, passion, and commitment to serving our community.

Aarna has been an invaluable asset in reintroducing the Rediscovering STEM program to Fallon Middle School. Her enthusiasm for spreading the love of STEM subjects to students who may not have previously had exposure to the ﬁeld is truly inspiring.

Through her e orts, she has made signi ﬁcant strides in promoting STEM education and fostering a culture of curiosity and exploration among their peers.

I have had the privilege of witnessing Aarna’s leadership skills ﬁrsthand as she has taken initiative and shown great initiative in organizing and promoting STEM-related activities within our school community. Her ability to communicate e ectively, collaborate with others, and inspire her peers is truly remarkable.

Aarna's desire to serve her community and help other teens in our city is evident in her unwavering dedication to making a positive impact. Aarna possesses a genuine willingness to go above and beyond to support and uplift others, and I have no doubt that she would be an invaluable asset to the Y outh Advisory Committee.

Please feel free to contact me if you require any further information. I enthusiastically endorse Aarna and am con
ﬁdent that she will make signi ﬁcant contributions to the Y outh Advisory Committee and our community as a whole.

If you have any further questions or require additional information, please feel free to contact me at
Regards,
Patricia Causapin
6th Grade Assistant Principal, Fallon Middle School
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To Whom It May Concern,
My name is Caleb Baldwin, and I am an English teacher and Speech and Debate coach at Fallon Middle School. I am writing this letter to strongly recommend Aarna Mehra to Dublin’s Y outh Advisory Committee.

As Aarna is a student in both my English class and Speech and Debate program, I’ve gotten to know her quite well. Whether it is in class or in debate, the quality I see most in Aarna is humility. She is, for instance, the strongest debater in our program. She’s quickly developed a reputation as a fearsome rebuttalist, and is the favorite for awards and prizes at each of our competitions. Y ou wouldn’t know this from talking to her - she maintains her own confidence and self-belief while also seeking advice from others. My other debaters vie to compete on the same team as her, because she is the kind of teammate who builds you up and makes you feel like your contributions are valued. Whenever she wins at a tournament - a frequent occurrence for Aarna - her first impulse is to appreciate others.

Speaking of her role as a teammate, Aarna is also the epitome of a team player. Whether it is in class projects or debate matches, she looks out for others first. I don’t think I’ve ever heard her say an unkind word to another person. Rather, she engages the world with gratitude and curiosity - qualities which, I believe, have contributed to her success as a debater. Rather than rest on her laurels, Aarna is always looking for new ways to push herself. Rather than dismiss her opponents or criticize her judges, she asks questions. She looks for the possible wisdom that others have to offer. During my classes’ Shakespeare unit, Aarna performed a scene from A Midsummer Night’s Dream with two other students.

In the process of her preparation, she sought the advice of her castmates and her teachers, figuring out how to put together the best possible scene. I found it rather appropriate that she played Peter Quince - she worked as a director, collaborating with others and measuring their advice to make her vision a reality.

The result was the strongest piece I had this year.

Finally, I’d like to speak to Aarna’s problem-solving skills. One of the qualities that makes her such a strong debater is her ability to grasp complex, multi-faceted problems and view them from different angles. She often ‘gets’ things quickly, and makes the kind of novel connections that result in outside-the-box thinking. It is one of the qualities that makes her such an effective speaker in debate.

Under the very tight time constraints of our debate competitions, Aarna is able to break down complex arguments delivered by her opponents and respond with precision and sophistication. These skills are not only limited to academics; Aarna picks up on social dynamics quickly, and as a result acts compassionately and empathetically to her classmates. She is the sort of student who often works with peers who have a harder time making friends, as she understands that group work is often anxiety provoking for those students. Small moments like these, moreso than debate or essays, give me the sense that Aarna is thoughtful and intelligent.

Aarna is a deeply compassionate, curious, and creative thinker. If you are looking for a uniquely talented problem solver for the Y outh Advisory Committee, I hope you will consider her for the role.

Thank you,
Caleb Baldwin
Fallon Middle School
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Youth Advisory Committee 2024 - 2025
Term Application
The Youth Advisory Committee consists of 13 members and three alternate members who serve a one-year term. This Committee is a positive and creative youth-driven forum that gives Dublin teens a way to provide input on programs and activities offered by the City. The Youth Advisory Committee Bylaws and Rules of Procedure govern the meetings and activities of the Committee.

Youth Advisory Committee Bylaws and Rules of Procedure govern the meetings and activities.

To browse past Agendas and Minutes for the Commission, visit the City's Online Records Portal.

Youth Advisory Committee Information Letter
Please acknowledge that you have downloaded and read the Youth Advisory Committee Information Letter regarding regular meeting dates, and other commitments required as a committee member. * Yes
Date Time*
3/26/2024
First Name *
Navya
Last Name *
Mehta
Address *
Street Address
Address Line 2
City
Dublin
State/Province/Region
California
Postal/Zip Code
94568
Country
USA
Phone (Primary) * Phone (Secondary)
E-mail - Please do not use a DUSD email *
What school will you attend in the 2024-2025 school year? * Fallon Middle School
What grade will you be in during the 2024-2025 school year? * 7th Grade
Application Questions
Attachment 1
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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.

Teachers, counselors, and coaches can email the letter of recommendation directly to [email protected] by March 29, 2024 by 5:00 pm.

Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* I believe that I can bring some fresh ideas and a good perspective on how to enhance and improve youth programs in Dublin. I know that Dublin’s a great community, and I would love to make a diﬀerence. I want to help make the youth programs better on behalf of all the teens in the city. That’s why I want to be a member of the Dublin YAC.

What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* I have strong leadership skills and can work with others easily. I’m friendly, outgoing, and very creative. I come up with new solutions and think outside the box.

What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC can address these issues? *
I think that teens are extremely stressed and spending too much time on social media. To address this, the YAC can host monthly webinars and invite all kids in Dublin to come, and talk about how to balance a teenage life with social media.

I also think that teens are afraid to go out of their comfort zone. The YAC can address this by making fun and appealing activities that will get teens out of the house, and out of their comfort zone. They can even be fun and social, so teens can bring along their friends.

What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2024-2025 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities? * I’m currently doing math, piano, and coding classes outside of school, as well as being the president of a club in my school. It doesn’t take up too much time, though, and I’ll be able to devote time every month for YAC meetings and activities because I’m passionate about making a diﬀerence in my community.

How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* I’m deeply involved in my community, and can go door-to-door inviting people. I can also tell a lot of the people that I know in Dublin about whatever the activity or event is.

Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting?* No
If yes, what was the meeting date and outcome 6 6 23 I tt d d th ti t i d f i i th A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Applications must be submitted no later than
Friday, March 29, 2024, at 5:00 p.m.

For questions, please contact the Parks and Community Service's Department at (925) 556-4500 or [email protected] Attachment 1
330
From: Jered Lui
To: Youth Advisory
Cc:

Subject: Dublin YAC Recommendation Letter
Date: Tuesday, March 26, 2024 12:15:31 PM
To Whom This May Concern,
My name is Jered Lui and I am Navya's 6th Grade Science Teacher. I believe Navya would be a productive, insightful, and professional member for the Dublin, CA Youth Advisory Committee because of the innate qualities she's demonstrated as a student. In class she has shown that she is collaborative, organized, and sensitive to timelines. She is a productive team member regardless of who she works with, has developed useful habits/systems to keep her organized in the class, and has been consistent with meeting deadlines the entire school year.

I wouldn't be recommending Navya if I didn't think she was capable of being a productive member of this committee. As a sixth grader, I am confident she has the maturity and executive functioning skills to communicate and collaborate with members who are up to 6 years older than her. In addition, she had the work
ethic to implement the projects and
initiatives discussed in the committee. She does a great job of gathering information before drawing conclusions and that maturity will serve her well if given the opportunity to be a member of this committee.

In conclusion, I firmly believe Navya would be an effective, positive, and productive member of the Dublin YAC.

Sincerely,
--
Jered Lui (he/him)
6th Grade Science Teacher
Fallon Middle School

Dublin High Girls Varsity Soccer Head Coach
CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe.

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Lisa Doherty
6th Grade Core T eacher
Fallon Middle School
Youth Advisory
Dublin, CA
27 March 2024
T o Whom It May Concern:

I am writing this letter of recommendation for Navya Mehta, who has been a student of mine for the past year at Fallon Middle School.

I teach 6th grade Core. Navya is an excellent student who gives 100% effort to her academics. She always works hard and is not afraid to ask for help.

Navya is a kind, responsible, respectful person who will contribute to the youth advisory committee. She will share and use all of her wonderful talents on the committee. Nayva is highly organized and knows how to manage her time. She actively participates in class.

I know Navya will succeed in every aspect of life. She is a good citizen both in and out of the classroom.

Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions.

Regards-
Lisa Doherty
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Youth Advisory Committee 2024 - 2025
Term Application
The Youth Advisory Committee consists of 13 members and three alternate members who serve a one-year term. This Committee is a positive and creative youth-driven forum that gives Dublin teens a way to provide input on programs and activities offered by the City. The Youth Advisory Committee Bylaws and Rules of Procedure govern the meetings and activities of the Committee.

Youth Advisory Committee Bylaws and Rules of Procedure govern the meetings and activities.

To browse past Agendas and Minutes for the Commission, visit the City's Online Records Portal.

Youth Advisory Committee Information Letter
Please acknowledge that you have downloaded and read the Youth Advisory Committee Information Letter regarding regular meeting dates, and other commitments required as a committee member. * Yes
Date Time*
3/28/2024
First Name *
Austin
Last Name *
Meng
Address *
Street Address
Address Line 2
City
Dublin
State/Province/Region
CA
Postal/Zip Code
94568
Country
United States
Phone (Primary) * Phone (Secondary)
E-mail - Please do not use a DUSD email *
What school will you attend in the 2024-2025 school year? * Dublin High School
What grade will you be in during the 2024-2025 school year? * 11 Application Questions
Attachment 1
333
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.

Teachers, counselors, and coaches can email the letter of recommendation directly to [email protected] by March 29, 2024 by 5:00 pm.

Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* I am applying to become a member of the Dublin YAC in order to represent and push forward the interest of my fellow teenagers in the Dublin community. As a part of various service organizations in the city, I care deeply about my community and I would like to maximize how I can be involved. From serving as a project manager on the Dublin Mayor’s Council and running trash cleanups at Emerald Glen to volunteering at Stanford’s Dublin outpatient clinic to being a board member on the BreakingBearriers nonproﬁt and organizing & emceeing a 400+ attendee Lunar New Year cultural concert for the city, I love to volunteer in my community – and more than being a laundry list of resume items, I believe that they reﬂect my ability to bring new ideas to the table and create change. To that end, YAC allows me to play the largest role that I can as a teenager on the city level – to oﬀer input to the city council and oversee and promote activities that help my peers and friends. I’ve personally beneﬁted from YAC as a recipient of funding for my gardening club and attended their mental health forum – both examples of the great work YAC has done. I want to be a part of it! What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* I have strong leadership skills and I’m experienced with the logistical implementation of activities and events. I’m currently the environmental project manager on the Dublin Mayor’s Council (leading a group of eight), and my work focuses on park cleanups and recycling drives. I do my best to get as many teens involved as possible with our projects outside of the council so that every high schooler in the city has an opportunity to participate. This would prove useful in YAC, since I can assist in getting engagement from teens and implementing projects.

Outside of leadership, I also possess strong communication and collaborative skills. Aside from competing in Public Forum debates nationally (and gaining the speaking ﬁnesse that comes with it), I also volunteer regularly at Stanford’s Physical Therapy clinic in the Dublin Corporate Center, aiding the front desk & physical therapists. There, I interact with a variety of patients, healthcare professionals, and staﬀ members, so I’ve learned how to communicate eﬀectively and work to support the people at the clinic. With how busy the clinic gets, my job is to make their jobs easier, so I’ve also developed the initiative to identify work that needs to get done (maybe something hasn’t been sanitized in a while, or linens may need swapping). This would also be helpful in YAC, as I’m eﬀective in expressing my ideas, facilitating or supporting discussion, and working with my co-committee members in project development.

What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC can address these issues? *
A major issue I believe teens in Dublin are dealing with is stress – both socially and academically. There’s immense pressure to attain good grades and take on heavy workloads, and I think YAC has already taken a strong step with the Youth Mental Health Forum. Aside from continuing it (and possibly doing it more often) next year, I believe that YAC can promote mental health support for teens by leveraging its platform to disseminate & promote destressing techniques & mental health resources through social media and word of mouth.

In events such as Splatter, the St. Patrick’s Day festival, or even the regular Farmers’ Market, a YAC booth promoting mental health resources could be highly beneﬁcial!
To soften academic burdens, YAC can work with school administrators or the city council to sponsor group study sessions to ease academic burdens either at Quarry Lane/DHS/EHS or in the Senior Citizen Center. YAC can also coordinate to establish small group tutoring programs by recruiting interested high schoolers (I know there are several!) to tutor middle schoolers and high schoolers for free on speciﬁc subjects.

I’m a tutor for a middle schooler and a high schooler, both with ADHD. And sometimes, all they need is a small push to thrive.

What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2024-2025 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities? * Aside from the activities previously mentioned (Stanford clinic volunteering, Dublin Mayor’s Council, BreakingBearriers, tutoring, debate), I also volunteer as a Mandarin translator, am a board member on the school gardening club, write as a columnist for the school newspaper, and lead a skincare club at DHS.

That said, I believe that I can absolutely commit to YAC activities and meetings. On top of being present for meetings, I should also be able to devote a minimum of multiple hours a week to YAC. I hope that my activities suggest eﬀective time management, not busyness.

How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* Attachment 1
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Aside from the social media outreach I mentioned earlier (I think they were superbly helpful!), the best way to reach broad populations in my experience is to collaborate with other nonproﬁts and clubs. Getting another club to promote your project gets your name out there to all of their members, and possibly to their friends. Through word of mouth and relationships with other clubs, I’ve recruited 40+ volunteers for my Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting?* No
If yes, what was the meeting date and outcome Y th M t l H lth F 11/09 if I b tl (?) I l A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Applications must be submitted no later than
Friday, March 29, 2024, at 5:00 p.m.

For questions, please contact the Parks and Community Service's Department at (925) 556-4500 or [email protected] Attachment 1
335
Attachment 1
336
Youth Advisory Committee 2024 - 2025
Term Application
The Youth Advisory Committee consists of 13 members and three alternate members who serve a one-year term. This Committee is a positive and creative youth-driven forum that gives Dublin teens a way to provide input on programs and activities offered by the City. The Youth Advisory Committee Bylaws and Rules of Procedure govern the meetings and activities of the Committee.

Youth Advisory Committee Bylaws and Rules of Procedure govern the meetings and activities.

To browse past Agendas and Minutes for the Commission, visit the City's Online Records Portal.

Youth Advisory Committee Information Letter
Please acknowledge that you have downloaded and read the Youth Advisory Committee Information Letter regarding regular meeting dates, and other commitments required as a committee member. * Yes
Date Time*
3/29/2024
First Name *
Marina
Last Name *
Na
Address *
Street Address
Address Line 2
City
Dublin
State/Province/Region
CA
Postal/Zip Code
94568
Country
United States of America
Phone (Primary) * Phone (Secondary)
E-mail - Please do not use a DUSD email *
What school will you attend in the 2024-2025 school year? * Dublin High School
What grade will you be in during the 2024-2025 school year? * 12th grade
Application Questions
Attachment 1
337
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.

Teachers, counselors, and coaches can email the letter of recommendation directly to [email protected] by March 29, 2024 by 5:00 pm.

Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* I have always enjoyed volunteering and contributing to helping the community. I want to contribute even further by taking part in the advisory committee through establishing new events and helping the youth of Dublin to feel more united and part of a community.

What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* I am always hardworking and dedicated to everything that I set my mind to. I also am a problem solver who can help out YAC by ﬁnding solutions to problems and presenting ideas on what YAC can do to help the community.

What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC can address these issues? *
I think that an issue teens are currently dealing with is pressure. There are a lot of diﬀerent factors that are pushing pressure onto teens in Dublin such as school, extracurricular, and families. I think that YAC can address these issues by coming up with events that everyone can attend and do something fun that can relieve them from the pressure. The YAC can also host workshops on how to handle stress along with other diﬀerent types of workshops.

What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2024-2025 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities? * I am currently involved with volunteering for a Korean School as a TA. I am also part of HOSA and am planning to run for a position on their board next year. I will be able to devote time each month to YAC meetings and activities.

How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* I would get other teens involved through word of mouth, collaborating with clubs in schools to promote the event, and using local businesses to help publicize the event.

Applications must be submitted no later than
Friday, March 29, 2024, at 5:00 p.m.

For questions, please contact the Parks and Community Service's Department at (925) 556-4500 or [email protected] Attachment 1
338
March 29th, 2024
To Whom It May Concern,
It is my pleasure to write a letter of recommendation for Marina Na. Marina is currently in my Advanced Placement United States History class at Dublin High School. It has been a pleasure to work with Marina because of her eagerness to learn, and her wonderful contributions during class discussions make her stand out above the rest of the class as a model student.

Marina arrives to class each day with a positive attitude and ready to tackle the assignment for the day with her complete focus and energy - for these and other reasons, she has helped to create a productive work environment in the classroom. During class, she remains focused on the task at hand, and the quality of the work she turns in is always excellent and far superior in comparison to the rest of her peers. In terms of group work, it is not unusual for Marina to take on a leadership role and help keep the group moving along by using positive encouragement. Marina is able to work productively with any student or group she was matched with, and focus her group’s energy to create something spectacular. When presented with an opportunity to speak in front of the class, she contributes her comments with confidence. Additionally, Marina is an advanced level writer, and this has become evident in the multiple argumentative and evidence based essays she has written for the class. Marina is truly devoted herself to doing her best every day, and her diligence over the course of the year, as well as her advanced knowledge of U.S. history will most likely lead to her getting a 5 on the AP Exam in May. Marina is a mature, responsible and intellectually bright young woman who I know will experience great success in life.

Marina is one of Dublin High School’s finest students. She is enrolled and excelling in the most challenging Advanced Placement courses offered at Dublin High School with an impressive cumulative GPA. In addition to her outstanding academic performance, she has found time in her busy schedule to participate in numerous extracurricular activities, such as in the HOSA and CSF clubs. For all the reasons mentioned earlier, it is clear that Marina will be able to rise to any challenge that comes her way. I cannot recommend Marina enough for the Youth Advisory Committee! Please contact me if you would like to further discuss Marina’s qualifications.

Sincerely,
Mary Hake, M.Ed.

Social Studies Teacher
Dublin High School
www.dublinusd.org/dhs
Attachment 1
339
Youth Advisory Committee 2024 - 2025
Term Application
The Youth Advisory Committee consists of 13 members and three alternate members who serve a one-year term. This Committee is a positive and creative youth-driven forum that gives Dublin teens a way to provide input on programs and activities offered by the City. The Youth Advisory Committee Bylaws and Rules of Procedure govern the meetings and activities of the Committee.

Youth Advisory Committee Bylaws and Rules of Procedure govern the meetings and activities.

To browse past Agendas and Minutes for the Commission, visit the City's Online Records Portal.

Youth Advisory Committee Information Letter
Please acknowledge that you have downloaded and read the Youth Advisory Committee Information Letter regarding regular meeting dates, and other commitments required as a committee member. * Yes
Date Time*
3/29/2024
First Name *
Aishi
Last Name *
Paliwal
Address *
Street Address
Address Line 2
City
Dublin
State/Province/Region
CA
Postal/Zip Code
94568
Country
United States of America
Phone (Primary) * Phone (Secondary)
E-mail - Please do not use a DUSD email *
What school will you attend in the 2024-2025 school year? * Dublin High School
What grade will you be in during the 2024-2025 school year? * 11th grade
Application Questions
Attachment 1
340
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.

Aishi letter (1).pdf 44.86KB
Teachers, counselors, and coaches can email the letter of recommendation directly to [email protected] by March 29, 2024 by 5:00 pm.

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 want to inspire, not just kids my age or under, but adults, as a youth. The YAC gives an opportunity to voice opinions as a teen and personally giving a voice to the young and not ignoring them has been really inﬂuential.

I have heard and seen what the YAC has done and I really think that this committee is one of the strongest associations we have in Dublin because unlike the PFC, the YAC connects to the future generations of youth that have an impact on our city in the upcoming years.

What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* My main strengths and skills that I possess that would make me a strong candidate is the ability to bring humor into a room that feels negative or down, spirit; channeling the pride of being on a large level like the YAC, organization; how to delegate tasks so that not only do we as a team accomplish the goal, but we move through the process smoothly, and my personal valuable experience; through my experiences of leadership from 7th-9th grade, I've learned many things along the way, including how to voice your opinions through other people's stance and how to accomplish the goal with everyone on the same page.

What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC can address these issues? *
I believe teens in Dublin are currently dealing with stress and pressure, myself being one of them. YAC could address these issues by lightening the high/middle school environment and involving teens into the many activities that Dublin has to oﬀer. Life in high school doesn't seem as the high school we see in movies, and by that I mean the unity and knittedness that movies seem to show. Personally I don't think movies are that far oﬀ of reality as we as humans are the ones that create them.

What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2024-2025 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities? * I am currently involved in dance and karate, my two favorite sports and hobbies, as well as many clubs at DHS. Clubs such as Girls 4 Sports, DHS Interact, DHS Indian Student Association, and DHS American Cancer Society are just some of the many clubs I'm involved in. I participate in dance at school as well as outside of school. I will be able to devote my time each month for YAC meetings and activities because I really think this is a big organization to apart of as a teen in high school and have seen the amount of eﬀort that goes into being on the YAC.

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 doing the one thing I do best, applying to everyone's interests. Being in Dublin leadership my freshman year and not getting in this year has made me realize why many teens don't really attend many of these activities and it's because they think that there isn't a point in getting involved. Sure it could be because of college or many other reasons, but I would like to give them a reason to get involved solely based oﬀ of interest. This could be through enticing their interest through feedback forms on what they would like to see happen or basing oﬀ of their friends and having group events.

Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting?* No
If yes, what was the meeting date and outcome I' tt d d PFC ti t it il ti b t I' l A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Attachment 1
341
Applications must be submitted no later than
Friday, March 29, 2024, at 5:00 p.m.

For questions, please contact the Parks and Community Service's Department at (925) 556-4500 or [email protected] Attachment 1
342
Tyler Hanamura
Ty West Martial Arts

Pleasanton CA

To Dublin Youth Advisory Committee

This is a letter of Recommendation for Aishi Paliwal.

Aishi Paliwal has been a student of Ty West Martial arts since December of 2017. She is now also a private lesson student as well. She has consistently demonstrated outstanding focus, determination, steadfastness, discipline, self-motivation and drive and skill in her training with me. She is now a senior student and helps others in class to grasp the different concepts and techniques. She has recently passed her Brown belt test and is on the way to the Black belt.

She will be a fine person to help on Advisory Committees given her fine character skills.

Sincerely,
Tyler Hanamura
Owner Ty West Martial Arts

Attachment 1
343
Youth Advisory Committee 2024 - 2025
Term Application
The Youth Advisory Committee consists of 13 members and three alternate members who serve a one-year term. This Committee is a positive and creative youth-driven forum that gives Dublin teens a way to provide input on programs and activities offered by the City. The Youth Advisory Committee Bylaws and Rules of Procedure govern the meetings and activities of the Committee.

Youth Advisory Committee Bylaws and Rules of Procedure govern the meetings and activities.

To browse past Agendas and Minutes for the Commission, visit the City's Online Records Portal.

Youth Advisory Committee Information Letter
Please acknowledge that you have downloaded and read the Youth Advisory Committee Information Letter regarding regular meeting dates, and other commitments required as a committee member. * Yes
Date Time*
3/29/2024
First Name *
Saanvi
Last Name *
Phaneendra
Address *
Street Address
Address Line 2
City
Dublin
State/Province/Region
California
Postal/Zip Code
94568
Country
United States of America
Phone (Primary) * Phone (Secondary)
E-mail - Please do not use a DUSD email *
What school will you attend in the 2024-2025 school year? * Dublin High School
What grade will you be in during the 2024-2025 school year? * 10th
Application Questions
Attachment 1
344
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.

Saanvi Letter of Rec Dublin Youth 20240327.docx.pdf 40.47KB Teachers, counselors, and coaches can email the letter of recommendation directly to [email protected] by March 29, 2024 by 5:00 pm.

Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* I am deeply passionate about contributing positively to my community and believe that joining the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC) oﬀers a unique opportunity to make a meaningful impact. Having grown up in Dublin for the last 11 years and experienced its vibrant community ﬁrst-hand, I am keen to give back and help address the needs and concerns of my fellow teens. My active involvement in the Boy Scouts and my leadership role as a Senior Patrol Leader have instilled in me a strong sense of duty towards community service and leadership. Furthermore, my interest in space technologies and my engagement with a broader audience through my YouTube channel and radio hosting on "Voice America Express Yourself" have equipped me with unique perspectives and skills that I believe can contribute to the YAC's objectives. I am excited about the prospect of leveraging these experiences to foster a greater sense of community among Dublin's youth, especially in the realms of science and technology.

What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* I possess a blend of leadership, communication, and organizational skills that I believe make me a strong candidate for the YAC. As the Senior Patrol Leader of my Boy Scouts unit, leading over 30+ scouters has honed my leadership and teamwork abilities, teaching me how to motivate a group towards common goals and handle diverse opinions and personalities. My role as a radio host for "Voice America Express Yourself" and managing a growing YouTube channel have signiﬁcantly enhanced my communication skills, allowing me to eﬀectively engage with a wide audience and articulate complex ideas clearly. Moreover, my enthusiasm for space technologies not only provides me with a unique perspective but also demonstrates my ability to delve deeply into subjects of interest, suggesting my commitment to any task or project I undertake.

What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC can address these issues? *
Teens in Dublin, like elsewhere, face a variety of issues ranging from academic and social pressures to mental health concerns and a lack of engagement in community activities. Additionally, the rapid pace of technological advancements presents both opportunities and challenges in terms of access to information, education, and future career paths. I believe the YAC can play a pivotal role in addressing these concerns by facilitating more inclusive and supportive community spaces where teens can express themselves, share their experiences, and access resources. Initiatives such as mentorship programs, mental health awareness workshops, and events focused on emerging technologies could greatly beneﬁt Dublin's youth. Speciﬁcally, leveraging my interest in space technologies, I propose organizing educational and engaging activities like watch parties for space launches and events with local experts in the ﬁeld. These initiatives would not only provide informative and inspirational experiences but also encourage active participation in science and technology ﬁelds, helping to prepare our youth for the future.

What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2024-2025 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities? * During the 2024-2025 school year, I will continue my active involvement in the Boy Scouts, aiming to achieve the rank of Eagle Scout, and maintain my role as a Senior Patrol Leader. Additionally, I plan to further develop my YouTube channel focused on space technologies and continue my engagement as a radio host for "Voice America Express Yourself". Despite these commitments, I am highly organized and adept at managing my time eﬀectively. I am fully committed to devoting the necessary time each month for YAC meetings and activities. My strong sense of responsibility and dedication to my community drives me to ensure that I will be an active and contributing member of the YAC.

How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* To engage other teens in Dublin, I'll capitalize on direct outreach and collaborative projects that resonate with their interests. Recognizing the diverse passions among my peers, I plan to advocate for a broad spectrum of initiatives, from technology and environmental eﬀorts to cultural and social events. By spearheading a peer ambassador program within the YAC, we can foster a network of youth advocates who are equally passionate about promoting community involvement. This approach will not only diversify our reach but also empower teens to take leadership roles in organizing and participating in events. With a focus on inclusivity and the tangible beneﬁts of engagement, such as skill development and community impact, I believe we can signiﬁcantly enhance teen participation in Dublin's civic and cultural life.

Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting?* Attachment 1
345
No
A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Applications must be submitted no later than
Friday, March 29, 2024, at 5:00 p.m.

For questions, please contact the Parks and Community Service's Department at (925) 556-4500 or [email protected] Attachment 1
346
City of Dublin Y outh Advisory Committee
It is my pleasure to recommend Saanvi Phaneendra for the Dublin Y outh Advisory Committee. I have known Saanvi for the past 3 years as her BSA Scoutmaster. She is currently our Senior Patrol Leader.

This position is earned through the election of the whole troop. She earned the confidence of our 30+ youth to be their leader. She has challenged herself physically in learning outdoors skills and challenged herself to move through leadership positions. As the Senior Patrol Leader, she has demonstrated an open-mindedness and willingness to try new things. She must organize our meetings, assign other leaders to their tasks for the month and ensure all the various ages and abilities are moving forward in achieving their goals. She has earned the respect of her peers and the adult leader corps; she is collaborative, organized and follows through with her goals and commitments. Each week, after our meetings, she publishes the summary for the youth and the adults. She is gifted in presenting content to the youth. She brings a charming playfulness to interacting with the scouts. They enjoy her humor when she is presenting skills or managing the newest or the most veteran scout. At our week-long camp experience, she was learning moviemaking skills. She created and developed a movie that included all the youth in the roles she created. It was really fun to watch her grow in this project--creatively, collaboratively and in confidence to bring her vision to fruition. The youth really enjoyed the project and worked to really make it a success. It was a lot of fun watching her manage this project and her participants.

I am confident that Saanvi will be a tremendous asset to the Dublin Y outh Advisory Committee. While I am a BSA Scoutmaster, I am also a member of the Planning Commission for the City of San Ramon.

Previously, I was appointed of the Parks and Community Services Commission. During my term on the Parks commission, I served on the interview committee that appointed the members to our city’s Teen Council. I can confidently say I believe Saanvi is the kind of youth representative you are looking for on your Y outh Council. She has many diverse interests; she is curious, teachable and confident in working with adults and youth. She meets her commitments and keeps a positive attitude even in the most trying of times!! I believe your program would really speak to her gifts and talents.

I hope she earns your vote as well to the Y outh Advisory Committee.

Sincerely,
Jean F. Kuznik
Scoutmaster Troop 2942, Livermore
Planning Commission member, City of San Ramon
Attachment 1
347
Youth Advisory Committee 2024 - 2025
Term Application
The Youth Advisory Committee consists of 13 members and three alternate members who serve a one-year term. This Committee is a positive and creative youth-driven forum that gives Dublin teens a way to provide input on programs and activities offered by the City. The Youth Advisory Committee Bylaws and Rules of Procedure govern the meetings and activities of the Committee.

Youth Advisory Committee Bylaws and Rules of Procedure govern the meetings and activities.

To browse past Agendas and Minutes for the Commission, visit the City's Online Records Portal.

Youth Advisory Committee Information Letter
Please acknowledge that you have downloaded and read the Youth Advisory Committee Information Letter regarding regular meeting dates, and other commitments required as a committee member. * Yes
Date Time*
3/25/2024
First Name *
Nikitha
Last Name *
Pillai
Address *
Street Address
Address Line 2
City
Dublin
State/Province/Region
California
Postal/Zip Code
94568-6706
Country
United States
Phone (Primary) * Phone (Secondary)
E-mail - Please do not use a DUSD email *
What school will you attend in the 2024-2025 school year? * Dublin High School
What grade will you be in during the 2024-2025 school year? * 10 Application Questions
Attachment 1
348
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.

Nikitha Pillai Letter of Recommendation.pdf 88.01KB
Teachers, counselors, and coaches can email the letter of recommendation directly to [email protected] by March 29, 2024 by 5:00 pm.

Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* I am motivated to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee, because I am passionate about actively contributing to my community and representing the voices of Dublin teens and youth. The YAC presents a unique opportunity for young people like myself to have a direct impact on the programs and activities oﬀered by the City, ensuring that they are relevant, inclusive, and beneﬁcial to our age group. As a resident of Dublin and a teenager who is actively involved in various extracurricular activities, I have witnessed the importance of youth representation in decision-making processes. I believe that by serving on the YAC, I can eﬀectively advocate for the needs and interests of my peers, bringing fresh perspectives and innovative ideas to the table. Moreover, I am committed to creating a positive and collaborative environment within the YAC, where diverse voices are heard, respected, and valued. I am eager to work alongside fellow committee members and city oﬃcials to address key issues aﬀecting Dublin teens, such as access to recreational facilities, mental health support, educational opportunities, and community events. Overall, I see membership in the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee as a meaningful way to make a diﬀerence in my community, develop leadership skills, and contribute to the overall well-being of Dublin.

What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* I bring numerous skills and experiences that can contribute to the committee's mission of empowering youth voices and eﬀecting positive change in our community. With strong communication skills, both verbal and written, I am great at expressing ideas, advocating for causes, and collaborating eﬀectively with others. My leadership abilities have been strengthened through various extracurricular activities, where I've demonstrated initiative, inspired my peers, and successfully managed teams to achieve shared goals. Furthermore, my critical thinking and problem-solving skills enable me to analyze complex situations, identify challenges, and devise innovative solutions. I value inclusivity and strive to ensure that all voices are heard and respected. Moreover, my adaptability and passion for community engagement make me well- suited to navigate dynamic environments and drive meaningful impact. I am excited about the opportunity to contribute my skills and experiences to the YAC, collaborating with fellow members and city oﬃcials to create positive change for the youth of Dublin.

What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC can address these issues? *
There are several pressing issues that teens in Dublin may be facing, and I believe that the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee can play a crucial role in addressing these concerns. Students today often grapple with various mental health challenges, including stress, anxiety, depression, and social isolation. The YAC can collaborate with mental health professionals, schools, and community organizations to raise awareness about mental health issues, promote stigma reduction, and advocate for increased access to mental health. As the future of our planet, teenagers are increasingly concerned about environmental issues such as climate change, pollution, and conservation. The YAC can advocate for environmentally sustainable practices and policies within the community, support eco-friendly initiatives, and raise awareness about the importance of environmental awareness with youth. Lastly, addressing bullying and promoting a culture of kindness and respect within schools and the community is essential. YAC can collaborate with schools, local organizations, and law enforcement to develop anti- bullying campaigns, provide resources, and oﬀer support for conﬂict resolution.

What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2024-2025 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities? * In the upcoming 2024-2025 school year, I will continue my involvement in several activities while still ensuring I can dedicate time to the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee. For the past ﬁve years, I've been an active member of the competitive dance team at Jazz N Taps Dance Team, where I've learned the value of dedication and teamwork. Additionally, I had the honor of being part of Dublin High School's ﬁrst ever Varsity Girls Flag Football team this year, further highlighting my commitment to sports and teamwork. As a member of the Speech and Debate team, I've sharpened my communication and critical thinking skills, preparing me well for collaborative endeavors like YAC. Moreover, I volunteer regularly at the Pleasanton Library, assisting with community events such as Memory Cafe for Seniors and Black History Month Crafts for kids. These experiences have created a strong sense of responsibility and eﬀective time management in me. I am conﬁdent in my ability to balance my commitments and prioritize YAC meetings and activities, as I understand the importance of contributing to my community and making a positive impact.

How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* I believe that using the power of social media is crucial in reaching and involving the youth in community events and City-sponsored activities. With platforms like Instagram, Snapchat, and TikTok being major parts of teenagers' lives, it creates a huge opportunity to connect Attachment 1
349
with them where they are most active. By creating engaging content, sharing updates about upcoming events, and fostering online communities, we can eﬀectively promote participation and generate excitement among young people. Furthermore, I plan to lead strongly by example. As a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee, I would be committed to actively participating in community events and initiatives, demonstrating to my peers the importance of civic engagement and community involvement. By showcasing my own enthusiasm and dedication, I hope to inspire others to follow and become actively involved in our city. In addition, oﬀering diverse and appealing programs is essential to cater to the varied interests and preferences of students. Whether it's organizing sports tournaments, art workshops, music festivals, or outdoor adventures, it provides a range of options that ensures that there is something for everyone to enjoy.

By embracing diversity and inclusivity in our programming, we can create a welcoming environment where all feel welcomed. Lastly, actively taking
Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting?* No
If yes, what was the meeting date and outcome I t h d th Cit C il ti M h 5 2024 i li t A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Applications must be submitted no later than
Friday, March 29, 2024, at 5:00 p.m.

For questions, please contact the Parks and Community Service's Department at (925) 556-4500 or [email protected] Attachment 1
350
March 24, 2024
To Whom It May Concern:

It is with my greatest pleasure that I am writing in recommendation of Nikitha Pillai as a potential candidate for the Dublin Y outh Advisory Committee. I have the honor of being Nikitha’s English teacher in her Advanced English 9 class (2023-2024), and I am pleased to inform you that the qualities she has shown in my class speak to her ability to make amazing contributions to her future endeavors in your committee, as well as in our society as a whole.

Without a doubt, out of all the students I have recommended for the Dublin Y outh Advisory Committee, Nikitha has been the strongest candidate by far. She stands out to me distinctly, as she frequently participates in class, sharing great ideas and contributing to the rapport of the class, and she has a fantastic attitude. She always arrives to class with determination, a positive spirit and a constant curiosity to learn. She takes initiative when it comes to being an active participant in class, understanding the material, and also spreading her knowledge to others. Her contributions to our class are thoughtful and demonstrate her capabilities as a complex thinker.

Additionally, each day, as we launch into the day’s activities, Nikitha demonstrates her eagerness through her willingness to engage closely with the texts and discussion topics we address in class. In her writing, Nikitha organizes her claims well. Her observations are strong, unique, and well supported by ample textual evidence. One of multiple examples of Nikitha’s strength as a strong, thoughtful student comes in the form of her Persuasive Speech, in which www.dublinusd.org/dhs
Attachment 1
351
students were asked to write about a cause for which they would like to raise awareness and advocacy for change. Nikitha wrote a powerful speech regarding the importance of enforcing stricter gun control laws over deadly assault weapons. Nikitha makes numerous well-researched claims and effective analogies, and her writing is tinged with genuine concern. When she presented her speech to our class, her tone was convincing and impassioned, leading me to the impression that she cares deeply about social issues and wants to make positive change in not only our community, but in societies beyond our own country, as well. Nikitha’s excellence as a fierce advocate for justice-oriented causes and as a creative writer extends to numerous other assignments also, which showcases her sharp skills in the field of public speaking and leadership.

Nikitha would be an ideal leader and contributor to your committee. In addition to her strong academic strengths, she works particularly well with her peers in group assignments, as well as discussions. Due to her positive spirit and personal drive, she often naturally takes on the role of a leader. I purposely pair her with students who would benefit from her kind guidance.

She also never hesitates to ask me questions and for additional feedback, which she readily applies to her work. With her strong academic and interpersonal skills, Nikitha is a wonderful candidate for your Y outh Advisory Committee. Please do not hesitate to accept her! Sincerely,
Carmen Chan
Dublin High School English Teacher
www.dublinusd.org/dhs
Attachment 1
352
Youth Advisory Committee 2024 - 2025
Term Application
The Youth Advisory Committee consists of 13 members and three alternate members who serve a one-year term. This Committee is a positive and creative youth-driven forum that gives Dublin teens a way to provide input on programs and activities offered by the City. The Youth Advisory Committee Bylaws and Rules of Procedure govern the meetings and activities of the Committee.

Youth Advisory Committee Bylaws and Rules of Procedure govern the meetings and activities.

To browse past Agendas and Minutes for the Commission, visit the City's Online Records Portal.

Youth Advisory Committee Information Letter
Please acknowledge that you have downloaded and read the Youth Advisory Committee Information Letter regarding regular meeting dates, and other commitments required as a committee member. * Yes
Date Time*
3/27/2024
First Name *
Soham
Last Name *
Pinapala
Address *
Street Address
Address Line 2
City
Dublin
State/Province/Region
CA
Postal/Zip Code
94568
Country
USA
Phone (Primary) * Phone (Secondary)
E-mail - Please do not use a DUSD email *
What school will you attend in the 2024-2025 school year? * Dublin High School
What grade will you be in during the 2024-2025 school year? * 11th grade
Application Questions
Attachment 1
353
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.

Teachers, counselors, and coaches can email the letter of recommendation directly to [email protected] by March 29, 2024 by 5:00 pm.

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 have always been passionate about making a diﬀerence in our community. I believe that by actively participating in this committee, I can contribute my perspectives and ideas on issues that aﬀect youth. I am also eager to collaborate with other members to advocate for positive change and create meaningful opportunities for young people in our city.

I am very enthusiastic about community engagement and advocating the needs and interests of the youth.

What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* I possess good communication skills, which allow me to articulate the perspectives of young people in our community. Additionally, my experience with volunteering and leadership roles in a youth volunteer organization Empower & Excel over the past 3 years has equipped me with the ability to collaborate with diverse groups of people, propose innovative ideas, and drive initiatives forward. For the various community service events that I was engaged in as a youth volunteer, over the past 4 years in the cities of San Jose, Fremont, Dublin, Santa Clara, Milpitas, Sunnyvale, Santa Cruz -
I have received the Presidential Volunteer Service Award – Gold medal in the years 2020, 2021, and 2022. I am on the path to receiving another one this year in June.

I was recognized as “Volunteer of the Year” in the teens category and “Most Inspirational Volunteer of the Year” for my community service, by the State of California Senate. Awards and certiﬁcates were presented by Senator Dave Cortese in April 2023.

I am working towards earning my gold-level Certiﬁcate for the Congressional Award by the end of this year 2024.

I received a Certiﬁcate of Commendation as the “Most Dedicated Volunteer of the Year” from the County of Santa Clara Supervisor Otto Lee in July 2022, for helping improve the quality of life of needy & unhoused residents in Alameda, Santa Clara & Santa Cruz counties.

What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC can address these issues? *
I believe teens in our community are dealing with a range of issues including access to education and academic resources, mental health, and opportunities for personal development. I think teens are currently dealing with coping with stress in schools and I think oﬀering ways to help alleviate stress and ﬁnd help for schoolwork would be a great solution to this. Asking for volunteers to tutor others on subjects could help struggling students a lot. We can set up events providing academic resources and trusted help with mentorship initiatives. Not only will this help struggling students, but it will also let other individuals learn how to teach others and express their knowledge in helpful ways. The issue of overbearing students with work is something I see a lot in my school and although there are places to get help, that might not be enough as they are only available during school times. Giving students a chance to get extra help after school hours will allow them to come at convenient times and will greatly beneﬁt them.

What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2024-2025 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities? * During the 2024-2025 school year, other than my junior year academic endeavors, I plan to continue my piano music classes, volunteering activities, and school DECA club activities. While these activities are important to me, I am committed to prioritizing my involvement in the YAC. I understand the importance of dedicating time each month to committee meetings and activities, and I am fully prepared to do so. I am conﬁdent I can eﬀectively manage my schedule to cater to making a positive impact in our community as a member of YAC.

How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* I believe the key to getting other teens involved in community events and city-sponsored activities is to make them fun, engaging, inclusive, and relevant to their interests.

One approach could be using social media platforms and digital marketing techniques to promote upcoming events and activities. By creating visually appealing content to generate excitement about what’s happening in our community. We could conduct surveys to gather diverse teen interests around sports, arts, community service opportunities, or leadership programs to guide some of the YAC planning.

Collaborating with local schools, youth organizations, and inﬂuencers can also help spread the word and can eﬀectively get more teens involved in community activities and city-sponsored events. As we get more teens involved with the city activities, we can create meaningful connections within the community.

Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting?* Attachment 1
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No
A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Applications must be submitted no later than
Friday, March 29, 2024, at 5:00 p.m.

For questions, please contact the Parks and Community Service's Department at (925) 556-4500 or [email protected] Attachment 1
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ATTENTION: Dublin Youth Advisory Committee:

I am writing this letter of recommendation in enthusiastic support of Soham Pinapala's application to join the Youth Advisory Committee in Dublin, CA. Having known Soham for the last year, I can confidently attest to his exceptional character, leadership qualities, and unwavering commitment to positively impacting his community.

Soham is an outstanding young man. As Lead Volunteer for the Empower and Excel Youth Organization, he has consistently demonstrated his leadership abilities and strong work ethic in various capacities. Whether leading group projects, organizing community events, or advocating for essential causes, Soham consistently goes above and beyond to contribute meaningfully to his community.

One of Soham's most commendable qualities is his passion for civic engagement and youth empowerment. He understands the importance of youth voices in shaping local policies and initiatives and actively seeks opportunities to catalyze positive change. His desire to join the Youth Advisory Committee stems from a genuine commitment to making Dublin a better place for all its residents, particularly its youth.

Soham's creativity and innovative thinking make him an asset to any team. He approaches challenges with a fresh perspective and thinks outside the box to find solutions. His ability to collaborate effectively with others and his excellent communication skills enable him to build consensus and drive initiatives forward.

Soham will excel as a member of the Youth Advisory Committee and make significant contributions to its mission. I wholeheartedly endorse his candidacy. Please do not hesitate to contact me with any further questions or require additional information.

Best Regards,

Sia Gehrling
Head Counselor
San Ramon College Consulting LLC

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P.O. Box 21555, San Jose, CA 95151 EIN:47-3656395 Phone: 408-755-0405 [email protected] https://empowerexcel.org www.facebook.com/empowerandexcel Dear Dublin City Youth Advisory Selection Committee,

Regarding: Applicant Soham Pinapala
I am writing to enthusiastically recommend Soham Pinapala for consideration as a member of the Youth Advisory Committee in Dublin. I have had the privilege of knowing Soham for more than four years, during which time I have witnessed his exceptional dedication to serving the community and his passion for making a positive impact. One outstanding example of Soham’s dedication is his monthly outreach to the unhoused population in Santa Cruz besides East and South Bay communities he is serving. For the past two and a half years, Soham has taken the lead in organizing these efforts, demonstrating remarkable consistency and reliability. Not once has he missed a distribution day, regardless of the distance he must travel or the challenges he faces. From the early morning preparations and assembly of lunches to the collection of supplies from volunteers and the lengthy 65-mile journey to Santa Cruz, Soham's determination is truly commendable. Witnessing the smiles on the faces of those who receive fresh food and essential supplies is a source of fulfillment for Soham, and it speaks volumes about his compassionate nature and his genuine desire to make a positive impact on the lives of others.

Soham possesses a strong commitment to civic engagement and actively seeks opportunities to contribute to the betterment of our community. He consistently demonstrates leadership qualities, displaying initiative, responsibility, and a collaborative spirit in all his endeavors.

Whether volunteering at local events, organizing community initiatives, or advocating for youth empowerment, Soham consistently goes above and beyond to make a difference.

One of Soham’s notable strengths is his ability to communicate effectively and advocate for the needs and interests of his peers. He has a keen understanding of the challenges faced by youth in our community and he is dedicated to representing their voices on important issues.

Soham approaches every task with enthusiasm, creativity, and a genuine desire to effect positive change. I have no doubt that Soham would be an invaluable asset to the Youth Advisory Committee in Dublin. His passion for community service, leadership abilities, and dedication to youth empowerment make him an ideal candidate for this role.

Thank you for considering Soham’s application. If you require any further information or have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Sincerely,
Ayesha Charagulla
Founder & CEO

Attachment 1
357
Youth Advisory Committee 2024 - 2025
Term Application
The Youth Advisory Committee consists of 13 members and three alternate members who serve a one-year term. This Committee is a positive and creative youth-driven forum that gives Dublin teens a way to provide input on programs and activities offered by the City. The Youth Advisory Committee Bylaws and Rules of Procedure govern the meetings and activities of the Committee.

Youth Advisory Committee Bylaws and Rules of Procedure govern the meetings and activities.

To browse past Agendas and Minutes for the Commission, visit the City's Online Records Portal.

NATASHA
Last Name *
PRABHU
Address *
Street Address
Address Line 2
City
Dublin
State/Province/Region
California
Postal/Zip Code
94568
Country
United States
Phone (Primary) * Phone (Secondary)
E-mail - Please do not use a DUSD email *
What school will you attend in the 2024-2025 school year? * Dublin High School
What grade will you be in during the 2024-2025 school year? * 9 Application Questions
Attachment 1
358
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.
2024-03-27_LtrofRec_NPrabhu - Google Docs (1).pdf 38.57KB Recommendation for Natasha Prabhu.pdf 32.36KB
Teachers, counselors, and coaches can email the letter of recommendation directly to [email protected] by March 29, 2024 by 5:00 pm.

Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* I am currently serving on the YAC this year. My original reason for joining was that I wanted to meaningfully serve my community (which I am also doing through my Boy Scouts of America troop). That reason has not changed, but rather evolved. I’ve enjoyed the events that the YAC has planned throughout this year, especially the Youth Mental Health Forum, since I learned a lot. It was an incredibly educational experience, but unfortunately, attendance was low. Turnout is critical in events like these that address important issues that matter to everyone. Time and eﬀort is taken by the YAC to organize these events so the community can beneﬁt. Next year, I would like to employ other strategies to increase attendance at these informative events. The events that have taken place this year were well planned and were great opportunities for people in the community to learn, so it’s imperative that we are able to reach as many people as possible. I would help plan more events like these.

What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* I have been doing speech and debate for six years and have been on the Fallon debate team for two years. In those two years, I’ve led my school to win multiple team and individual awards. I learned that debate isn't just arguments; it's about honing listening skills and critical thinking. Over the last two years, I discovered winning requires precision in responses, quick thinking, and the ability to reframe arguments to my advantage. I also learned that time management is key, not just leading up to tournaments, but also during rounds. Through debate, I developed into a competent leader, learned how to work with a team over a few months, conducted thorough research, and so much more.

Debate has been a valuable tool for my personal growth and helped me communicate eﬀectively, critically, and respectfully in everyday situations.

I'm also the vice president of the Girls4Sports Youth Advisory Board. The nonproﬁt is dedicated to promoting gender equality in sports/sports-related ﬁelds. I have organized and marketed several events, like the Youth Speaker Showcase and our upcoming public speaking and writing summer workshop. I manage more than 20 middle schoolers and delegate tasks. One of the biggest challenges that I’ve come across in this position is member attendance, for events and monthly meetings. I solved this by coming up with a grading system that depends on how much each member participates. Everyone who is part of Girls4Sports must maintain a minimum grade to be able to be a part of the non-proﬁt. The experience that I gained from here has made me a strong leader, and I will be able to use those skills in the YAC.

Lastly, I’m part of Troop 998 in Pleasanton, an all-girls troop. In the year since I have been a part of the troop, I’ve noticed little things that, on their own, don't do much harm, but collectively aﬀect the eﬃciency of the troop. One issue was starting our weekly meetings on time. I suggested the idea to have older/more experienced scouts help younger scouts complete requirements before the meeting started. That way, more people would turn up early for the incentive of completing ranks faster. In the same way, I helped solve other minor problems, like coming up with new meeting ideas, posting every agenda for campouts on our website so scouts know what to expect, color coding the supplies for each patrol box, and more. I decided to step up in my troop and became Assistant Senior Patrol Leader and currently have the Star rank. As the ASPL, I help to plan and lead campouts and meetings and also have to set an example for younger scouts. This is a huge responsibility, as I lead more than 50 scouts during campouts or meetings and solve any problems they might have between them. There’s also issues that could quickly escalate, like getting lost on a hike, that I need to be prepared to solve. Even though I’ve only held this leadership position for a few months, I’ve already learned how to resolve conﬂicts among younger scouts, think of solutions on the ﬂy, delegate tasks, and many more crucial leadership skills.

What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC can address these issues? *
A lot of kids don’t really know what career they want to have and end up just taking a pathway they’re not interested in, which leads to them taking irrelevant AP courses that add to their stress. Similar to the Tri-Valley Teen Job and Career Fair, I was thinking the YAC could organize an event where ﬁeld experts and high school/college students could talk about their career and the steps they took or are taking to achieve that. Teens would have access to internship opportunities, expert advice, and just be able to ﬁgure out what they might be interested in.

Along with this event, we could try and organize a few job shadowing opportunities. We could do this with local government, construction (with EHS and the new downtown being built), teachers, and maybe even medical professionals. This would also help students see what day- to-day life would be like for a career they are interested in. Since having every high school student follow someone around for a whole day is logistically impossible, we could make an application process or even try and have a silent auction to raise funds for other programs. I have Attachment 1
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seen my brother do something similar, and have helped him out by bringing opportunities to underprivileged kids as a curriculum director of the TechLit nonproﬁt.

What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2024-2025 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities? * I will continue to be a part of Girls4Sports and be involved in my troop’s leadership. In any case, I'm conﬁdent I can ﬁnd time for the YAC. I've always wanted to participate in my local government and would never pass up an opportunity like this.

How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* Since a lot of teens are active on their phones nowadays, it would be a good idea to use social media to advertise events. We could use short- form videos to show what happens at the events and participate in social media trends to bring attention to the YAC. It would also be good to have opportunities for teens to be able to directly be involved with the community. For example, they could help by volunteering at YAC events or assist with advertising of those events. They would be able to earn volunteer hours and also see what is going on in the community. Another way to increase teen involvement would be to plan smaller, less logistically challenging events, like a park cleanup, having a slam poetry contest, a food drive, and set up an event to volunteer to help senior citizens learn to use technology. It would be easier for us to have more events that would appeal to teens.

Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting?* No
If yes, what was the meeting date and outcome
of the item(s) you were interested in? I have attended the March 27th meeting. We discussed the Tri-Val A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Applications must be submitted no later than
Friday, March 29, 2024, at 5:00 p.m.

For questions, please contact the Parks and Community Service's Department at (925) 556-4500 or [email protected] Attachment 1
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March 26th, 2024
T o whom it may concern,
I am writing this letter to enthusiastically recommend Natasha Prabhu for the Dublin Youth Advisory Committee.

I have had the pleasure of knowing Natasha (T asha) for the past year in my U.S. History class.

As an 8th-grade U.S. History teacher, I have seen T asha demonstrate exceptional academic skills, outstanding leadership qualities, and a profound ability to think deeply about historical events.

T asha is an exceptional student who consistently excels in class. She actively participates in class discussions and always brings fresh perspectives to the table that demonstrate her thoughtfulness and creativity.

Not only is T asha an academic standout, but she also shines as a leader among her peers. She has a natural ability to motivate others, in group projects Her classmates often look to her for guidance, and she leads by example with her strong work ethic and positive attitude.

I wholeheartedly recommend Natasha for any opportunities that come her way. Her exceptional academic performance, leadership skills, deep thinking abilities, and creativity make her a standout candidate who will undoubtedly thrive and contribute positively to any environment she is placed in.

Sincerely,
Kyle Voeller
8th Grade U.S. History T eacher
Fallon Middle School 3601 Kohnen Way, Dublin, CA 94568
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March 27, 2024
Dublin Youth Advisory Committee
T o Whom It May Concern,
I am writing to highly recommend Natasha for consideration as a member of the Dublin Youth Advisory Committee. I have had the pleasure of knowing Natasha for several years now and have witnessed firsthand her exceptional dedication, leadership, and commitment to service in her community.

Natasha's involvement in various activities and organizations demonstrates her passion for making a positive impact in her community. In BSA Troop 2998, Natasha has dedicated over 30 volunteer hours. She is an impressive leader with natural leadership ability, but more importantly, Natasha has a great work ethic and attitude; she does not just seek to learn skills or gain leadership status, but uses every opportunity to help teach her fellow Scouts and learn from feedback from her peers and adults-alike to become an even more responsive leader. She was recently selected by her peers in the more than 50-person troop as the Assistant Senior Patrol Leader- the second highest troop leadership position.

Natasha has been an instrumental member of Girls4Sports Non-Profit, where she serves on the Youth Advisory Board. As Vice President, Natasha has worked to promote gender equality in sports and sports-related fields. Her efforts organizing events, as well as her involvement in planning the Youth Speaker Showcase, demonstrate her exceptional leadership and organizational skills.

Natasha's academic achievements are equally impressive. In the Alameda County Science & Engineering Fair (ACSEF), she presented her project on Contact Tracing's Impact on the Spread of COVID-19, showcasing her passion for STEM and her ability to conduct rigorous research. Her project, which involved developing a customizable SEIRS epidemiological model in PyCharm, earned her recognition and accolades, including a fourth-place win at ACSEF .

But Natasha works hard to excel even when there are no prizes or accolades, which is far more impressive.

One of the first times I met her was in my Citizenship in the Nation Merit Badge class for BSA Scouting. It was a Friday night after a long winter week of dreary weather and regular school classes and activities, and most Scouts showed up a bit tired with only the minimum required work. Not Natasha. She arrived ready to have a real discussion on labor issues in the United States and her enthusiasm to learn and discuss energized the entire group, sparking a great discussion among peers. Natasha works hard and brings others along even when it's not going to be recognized with a grade or placed on a list of achievements.

Whether she is educating her peers about global issues, managing a team of middle schoolers, or leading her patrol during campouts, Natasha consistently demonstrates maturity, integrity, and a strong work ethic. Dublin is lucky to have Natasha as a young citizen and she should be considered as an exemplary candidate for the Dublin Youth Advisory Committee. I have no doubt that she will continue to excel and make valuable contributions to the committee, if selected, and the community at large.

Please feel free to contact me if you require any further information.

Sincerely,
Amanda Cumti
Attachment 1
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Attachment 1
363
Youth Advisory Committee 2024 - 2025
Term Application
The Youth Advisory Committee consists of 13 members and three alternate members who serve a one-year term. This Committee is a positive and creative youth-driven forum that gives Dublin teens a way to provide input on programs and activities offered by the City. The Youth Advisory Committee Bylaws and Rules of Procedure govern the meetings and activities of the Committee.

Youth Advisory Committee Bylaws and Rules of Procedure govern the meetings and activities.

To browse past Agendas and Minutes for the Commission, visit the City's Online Records Portal.

Youth Advisory Committee Information Letter
Please acknowledge that you have downloaded and read the Youth Advisory Committee Information Letter regarding regular meeting dates, and other commitments required as a committee member. * Yes
Date Time*
3/28/2024
First Name *
Vibhuti
Last Name *
Puthiyaveetil
Address *
Street Address
Address Line 2
City
Dublin
State/Province/Region
California
Postal/Zip Code
94568
Country
USA
Phone (Primary) * Phone (Secondary)
E-mail - Please do not use a DUSD email *
What school will you attend in the 2024-2025 school year? * Emerald High School
What grade will you be in during the 2024-2025 school year? * 9th
Application Questions
Attachment 1
364
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.

Letter of Rec - Vibhuti.pdf 49.14KB
Vibhuti Puthiyaveetil .pdf 56.33KB
Teachers, counselors, and coaches can email the letter of recommendation directly to [email protected] by March 29, 2024 by 5:00 pm.

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 use my ideas to improve the city. Dublin has a lot it can improve upon. My ideas and contributions can help with this. I am eager to work with a focused group of individuals who are interested in improving the city. Becoming a member of the committee will allow me to share my ideas with the board and crowd to improve and represent the true expressions and feelings of teens in Dublin. I really want to be a good model and voice my opinions and ideas to further establish the entertainment in the city. I want to be a fair representative of the student body of Dublin. I personally believe that I can make a diﬀerence and an impact on the students.

What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* I have good leadership skills that will help me move, guide, and lead a crowd in the right direction to establish and succeed our goals. I have good speaking skills, which is important to have while being a committee member because it is important to voice ideas out loud without fear. I have the capability to do this, allowing with accepting criticism. I am well aware that my ideas will need to be improved on, but that is a skill that I am aware and proud to have. I also have strong listening skills. This is crucial to have while being a member on the committee because I can listen carefully and be supportive of ideas that are mentioned on the board and help lead them to further success. I also have a good sense of networking, which is important to have, because through networking, we can hear other people's good ideas and furnish them to meet the standards of Dublin.

What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC can address these issues? *
Teens in Dublin are currently dealing with immense stress and pressure. They feel overlooked and are simpliﬁed into categories based on how they're feeling. For example, not everyone is feeling depressed or has anxiety. There are many other factors that cause stress and pressure in teens. I believe that the YAC can correctly address these issues by noting down the speciﬁc issue that is being dealt with and ﬁgure out an open solution that can ﬁt every teen. I also feel that the activities could be more open and inclusive to teens that have diﬀerent interests. The YAC could plan more interactive, inclusive events to help.

What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2024-2025 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities? * This year, I am involved in debate, basketball, cultural activities, yearbook, piano, and martial arts. Next year, I will be doing piano, martial arts, cultural activities, and perhaps basketball and leadership activities. I will be eager to devote time each month for YAC meetings and volunteer for activities.

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 making every staﬀ member a part of the marketing service. If every teacher dutifully informs their pupil of the events that are happening in Dublin, then the teens would get more awareness of the community events. More marketing on school and city websites, parks, and festivals would also be beneﬁcial to get the word around. In order to get teens to participate in community events, an incentive would have to be given at the last resort, such as volunteering hours. I also suggest that if we do special teen events, there shouldn't be any fee to attend the festivity, as this may disinterest teens and parents who are unwilling to pay the price of the event.

Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting?* No
If yes, what was the meeting date and outcome 3/27 I t t thi ti d I i t t d i h thl A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Attachment 1
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Applications must be submitted no later than
Friday, March 29, 2024, at 5:00 p.m.

For questions, please contact the Parks and Community Service's Department at (925) 556-4500 or [email protected] Attachment 1
366
March 22, 2024
To Whom It May Concern:

It is a true pleasure for me to write this recommendation letter on behalf of Vibhuti Puthiyaveetil for admission into Dublin’s Y outh Advisory Committee. Over the course of her middle school career, I have had the opportunity to watch her grow and develop into a truly exceptional young woman.

While enrolled in my History course, Vibhuti stood out amongst her peers. Her attitude and effort were exemplary and she was consistently prepared for class. She has the ability to get along well with others and because she has such a positive and upbeat attitude, her classmates gravitate toward her. She is always encouraging, includes everyone, and offers to help out on a daily basis.

Vibhuti has accomplished more in her three years at Fallon than most students do over their entire educational careers. She has maintained a high GPA and made honor roll each semester, she won the school spelling bee, and is the Editor in Chief for our school newspaper. Additionally, Vibhuti is a member of our girl’s championship basketball team, is an accomplished pianist, and has conversational skills in many languages.

I am extremely confident that Vibhuti will be a wonderful addition to the Dublin Y outh Advisory Committee. Her work ethic, determination, and cooperation all contribute to making her a fantastic student. I’ve taught hundreds of students over the last several years, and Vibhuti stands out above them all. I give my highest recommendation for Vibhuti Puthiyaveetil.

Sincerely,
Nick Zarcone
Teacher
Language Arts, History, and Electives
Attachment 1
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To: Dublin Youth Advisory Committee
It is my absolute pleasure to recommend Vibhuti Puthiyaveetil for consideration by the Dublin Youth Advisory Committee. I have known Vibhuti for over two years as her journalism teacher for the yearbook and Maverick School newspaper and her seventh-grade English and history teacher at Fallon Middle School.

In the classroom, Vibhuti has consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership qualities and editorial skills as a key editor of student articles. Her attention to detail and dedication to ensuring the highest quality of work before publication is truly commendable.

Outside of the classroom, Vibhuti has showcased her talents in various extracurricular activities. She has excelled in debate competitions, achieving high rankings at prestigious events such as La Reina, Stanford, and state competitions. Vibhuti's eloquent speaking abilities and critical thinking skills set her apart from her peers.

Academically, Vibhuti has maintained an impressive GPA throughout middle school, earning a spot on the honor roll for all three years. Her victory in the Fallon annual spelling bee is a testament to her intellectual capabilities. Furthermore, her role as the Maverick Editor in Chief at Fallon showcases her strong writing skills and ability to lead a team effectively, even in challenging circumstances.

In addition to her academic achievements, Vibhuti is a multi-talented individual. She is an integral part of Fallon's Girls' Basketball team, contributing to their success in winning the Tri-valley Championships. Her musical abilities are equally impressive, having achieved certificates in Level 1 ABRSM and Level 3 and 6 Certificates of Merit in piano.

Vibhuti's dedication to language learning is also noteworthy. She has pursued Spanish studies and successfully completed an exam through DELE, demonstrating a high level of proficiency. Her proficiency extends to other languages, such as French, Sanskrit, and Malayalam, showcasing her commitment to broadening her linguistic skills.

In conclusion, Vibhuti Puthiyaveetil is a well-rounded, accomplished individual who excels in academics, extracurricular activities, and leadership roles. Her strong work ethic, passion for learning, and impressive talents make her an outstanding candidate for any opportunity she pursues. I am confident that she will continue to succeed and make valuable contributions wherever she goes.

Please feel free to contact me if you require any further information.

Warm regards,
Michelle Elissiry
T eacher - Fallon Middle School
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To Whom It May Concern,
My name is Caleb Baldwin, and I am an English teacher and coach at Fallon Middle School. I am writing this letter to strongly recommend Vibhuti Puthiyaveetil to Dublin’s Y outh Advisory Committee.

At our school, Vibhuti’s name pops up all over the place. She is the editor-and-chief of the Maverick, our school newspaper, where she has spearheaded various projects to help foster a closer school community. She is the winner of this year’s Fallon Spelling Bee, which came down to a grueling final round lasting more than an hour. She is an avid debater, participating in weekend tournaments as recent as this last Sunday, where she had the opportunity to compete against some of the most talented debaters in the city. She is a part of the Fallon basketball team, which won the Tri-V alley championship this year. On top of that, she is a skilled pianist, speaks several languages, and an excellent writer. I say all of this not to simply list accomplishments (I’m sure the application itself has space for this) but to underscore just how accomplished Vibhuti is, and to further illustrate how each of these accomplishments represent her commitment to mastering any task to which she applies herself. Many of these skillsets have been developed over the course of this year alone, and represent time and dedication.

This dedication and commitment to excellence is not simply for personal glory. Vibhuti cares deeply about advocacy, and has already shown an interest in political issues. She is engaged with conversations that are happening in the moment, and is already developing an awareness of how these issues affect other people. In my class, I’ve appreciated her advocacy for feminism and her awareness of current political issues facing women. At the end of our 1st quarter, 8th graders at Fallon are tasked with a research project based on an area of interest. Vibhuti opted to research the points of view of various feminist authors on romance novels. For this project, Vibhuti adopted a critical lens in understanding different perspectives, and often found herself needing to delve into college-level publications in order to identify and understand her topic. The result was one of the strongest presentations of the entire 8th grade class.

Finally, I’d like to speak to Vibhuti’s leadership. As she is an avid debater, I was hoping that she would join Fallon’s Speech and Debate team. However, she decided instead to opt for journalism, continuing Fallon’s school newspaper. When I asked her why she decided to continue with journalism, she explained that she wanted the opportunity to take on a leadership position in the class, and to mentor incoming students. That completely made sense to me; when it comes to in-class assignments and projects, Vibhuti is always drawn to leadership roles. She has a keen sense for organization, and understands on a broad level what needs to be accomplished in order to make a project successful. She is the rare student who both has big, interesting ideas and the willpower and capacity to make those things happen.

Vibhuti is a future leader, and I look forward to seeing what she does and where she goes. I think Dublin’s Y outh Advisory Committee would be a great way for her to channel her talents into public service, somewhere I believe she would effect a great amount of good. I hope you will consider her for the role.

Thank you,
Caleb Baldwin
Fallon Middle School
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Youth Advisory Committee 2024 - 2025
Term Application
The Youth Advisory Committee consists of 13 members and three alternate members who serve a one-year term. This Committee is a positive and creative youth-driven forum that gives Dublin teens a way to provide input on programs and activities offered by the City. The Youth Advisory Committee Bylaws and Rules of Procedure govern the meetings and activities of the Committee.

Youth Advisory Committee Bylaws and Rules of Procedure govern the meetings and activities.

To browse past Agendas and Minutes for the Commission, visit the City's Online Records Portal.

Youth Advisory Committee Information Letter
Please acknowledge that you have downloaded and read the Youth Advisory Committee Information Letter regarding regular meeting dates, and other commitments required as a committee member. * Yes
Date Time*
3/29/2024
First Name *
Ilyas
Last Name *
Qaadri
Address *
Street Address
Address Line 2
City
Dublin
State/Province/Region
California
Postal/Zip Code
94568
Country
United States
Phone (Primary) * Phone (Secondary)
E-mail - Please do not use a DUSD email *
What school will you attend in the 2024-2025 school year? * Fallon Middle School
What grade will you be in during the 2024-2025 school year? * 7th
Application Questions
Attachment 1
370
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.

Ilyas-Letter of Rec.pdf 124.11KB
Teachers, counselors, and coaches can email the letter of recommendation directly to [email protected] by March 29, 2024 by 5:00 pm.

Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* I am excited to join the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee to actively shape our community's future. Serving on the committee provides a chance for me to voice my thoughts and ideas, allowing me to play a part in organizing impactful city events and initiatives. I also see this as an opportunity to increase my leadership and planning abilities while working with other passionate young leaders, creating a network for growth and advocacy.

What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* My experience as a former member of the Amador Elementary Student Council and DUSD representative, along with my current role as the 6th grade representative/president of the Muslim Student Union, has given me with strong leadership and planning skills. Also, in my free time, I create short ﬁlms with my family, which would allow me to bring a creative approach to promoting Dublin events and documenting the committee's work through engaging videos. These experiences have given me some tools to contribute to the Youth Advisory Committee and make a positive impact on our community.

What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC can address these issues? *
Teens in Dublin face challenges ﬁnding safe spaces for studying, getting academic help, and socializing. To meet these issues, the YAC could help create some dedicated areas within the community where teens can study, get help with homework from older peers, and engage in recreational activities. Hosting inclusive events such as movie nights and board game nights would foster a sense of belonging and provide opportunities for teens to connect with one another. By involving teens in the planning and execution of these initiatives, the YAC can meet that the needs of the youth community are adequately met.

What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2024-2025 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities? * Currently, I am the 6th grade Representative/President at MSU, with plans to serve as the 7th grade Representative/President next year. I will also participate in cross country and track activities next year. I am sure I can devote time for attending YAC meetings and in its activities.

How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* To increase involvement in the community and City-sponsored activities, the YAC could prioritize organizing events speciﬁcally for teenagers' interests and preferences. Doing polls to get input on event themes and activities would help with inclusivity and desire. Improving advertising, by targeting schools, can reach more teens. Also, using creative ways of reaching teens, such as fun and engaging movies, could be a new and interesting way to promote events and generate excitement.

Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting?* No
If yes, what was the meeting date and outcome I h tt d d Pl i C i i d Cit C il ti A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Applications must be submitted no later than
Friday, March 29, 2024, at 5:00 p.m.

For questions, please contact the Parks and Community Service's Department at (925) 556-4500 or [email protected] Attachment 1
371

AMADOR ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
March 28th, 2024
To Whom It May Concern,
My name is Monica Chinn and I am currently a Kindergarten Teacher at J.M. Amador Elementary School in Dublin, California. I have worked in Dublin for nine years, helping to open J.M.

Amador in 2015. I also have the unique opportunity to be one of the school's 5th Grade Student Council Advisors for the past eight years.

Ilyas was one of fifteen students chosen to be part of our Student Council group. From the beginning Ilyas was a standout applicant. He went above and beyond on his application with his thoughtful answers to each prompt and sent us links to projects and videos that he had done in the past to showcase his work. During his time in Student Council Ilyas was eager to take on projects that required work outside of school hours, was an excellent communicator in person and via email, and always contributed creative ideas to make school exciting for all students. Whatever project Ilyas worked on, he always got it done right on time or even before the expected deadline. In addition, Ilyas was chosen to be Amador’s one Student Council representative at the district level and attended monthly meetings run by the Dublin Student Board Representative.

I believe that Ilyas would be an excellent fit for the Dublin Y outh Advisory Committee. He has the drive and passion to make a difference in schools and the community. Ilyas is full of creative ideas and doesn’t hesitate to execute them. His exceptional public speaking skills, ability to collaborate, and his gained respect amongst peers make him an excellent addition to your committee.

Please feel free to contact me with any questions or if you would like any additional information.

Sincerely,
Monica Chinn
Monica Chinn
Kindergarten Teacher & Student Council Advisor
Amador Elementary School
Attachment 1
372
Youth Advisory Committee 2024 - 2025
Term Application
The Youth Advisory Committee consists of 13 members and three alternate members who serve a one-year term. This Committee is a positive and creative youth-driven forum that gives Dublin teens a way to provide input on programs and activities offered by the City. The Youth Advisory Committee Bylaws and Rules of Procedure govern the meetings and activities of the Committee.

Youth Advisory Committee Bylaws and Rules of Procedure govern the meetings and activities.

To browse past Agendas and Minutes for the Commission, visit the City's Online Records Portal.

Youth Advisory Committee Information Letter
Please acknowledge that you have downloaded and read the Youth Advisory Committee Information Letter regarding regular meeting dates, and other commitments required as a committee member. * Yes
Date Time*
3/27/2024
First Name *
Aparna
Last Name *
Raj
Address *
Street Address
Address Line 2
City
Dublin
State/Province/Region
CA
Postal/Zip Code
94568
Country
United States of America
Phone (Primary) * Phone (Secondary)
E-mail - Please do not use a DUSD email *
What school will you attend in the 2024-2025 school year? * Emerald High School
What grade will you be in during the 2024-2025 school year? * 9th
Application Questions
Attachment 1
373
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.

Letter of Recommendation - ApRa.pdf 50.48KB
Letter of Recommendation_ Aparna Raj.pdf 111.7KB
Teachers, counselors, and coaches can email the letter of recommendation directly to [email protected] by March 29, 2024 by 5:00 pm.

Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* Growing up in Dublin, I have experienced ﬁrsthand the issues that aﬀect teens and young people, from limited access to mental health resources to gender discrimination. I want to join because of my strong belief that young people are the future of our world and we need our input to create policies and programs to beneﬁt our generation. I want to make sure our voices have an impact on the decisions that aﬀect our lives the most, now or in the future. I want to help move our community forward so that every teen is empowered, supported, valued and brought to their full potential. Where mental health is a priority, all young people are equal, diversity is celebrated and opportunities abound. Being a part of the Youth Advisory Committee allows me to make a diﬀerence, advocate for a representative city, and contribute to a better community.

What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* Firstly, I have strong communication skills that allow me to understand the concerns my peers have eﬀectively and work in a group to solve them. I've honed this through various leadership roles, the most signiﬁcant being the Editor-in-Chief of my school's yearbook, where I had to proof students' spreads for errors, explain to them what they could do to improve upon them and manage the team during deadline days and/or days of pressure. Secondly, I can work well in groups, where I am open to others' ideas and contribute positively to the team. As a part of my school's competitive Speech and Debate course, I work in groups of two or three all year for tournaments, and I collaborate with them to make sure our arguments are the best they can be. Thirdly, my problem-solving skills have allowed me to tackle issues with innovative solutions. When faced with challenges, I make sure to devise solutions that are both eﬀective and sustainable, rather than superﬁcial, that clearly address the root problem. Furthermore, my organization and time management are some of my key strengths, allowing me to balance two electives, several classes, clubs, and leadership positions. Finally, my unwavering passion for helping my community is the foundation of my desire to join the YAC. Over the years, I've experienced girls constantly being discriminated against in sports, competitions, clubs, and more. I've dealt with PE teams always being girls versus boys, and the boys would never allow the girls to even touch the ball. I wanted to stand up for what's right, so I joined the nonproﬁt organization Girls4Sports and attained a leadership position on the executive board. I've organized sports camps, speaking camps, and more for kids all around Dublin to promote gender equality.

What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC can address these issues? *
One of the issues we face is gender inequality, which has many diﬀerent causes and can't be solved simply. We need to approach this from many diﬀerent angles. Firstly, the YAC can organize workshops to raise awareness about gender inequality, empowering the youth to be more empathetic. We can work with schools to ensure that no person is bullied or left out. Secondly, we can collaborate with local organizations, such as Girls4Sports, to gain more publicity and work together to harness our resources and ideas, which can ensure our voices are united and heard. We can create workshops for equal participation and representation in sports, STEM ﬁelds, chess, and more, to ensure that no one is discouraged from trying out because of fear of discrimination or being laughed at. Another problem that we face today is educational pressures, which can lead to mental health issues such as anxiety or depression. YAC can ﬁx this by working with schools and health services to ensure all resources and counseling are accessible, and we can organize workshops on coping mechanisms, time management, and more. Another issue that aﬀects teens' mental health is cyberbullying and the eﬀect of social media on self-esteem. YAC can help ensure no teen is hurt by their digital worlds by promoting responsible social media usage, the importance of privacy settings, and how to report or block anything that hurts them.

What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2024-2025 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities? * I am currently involved in the nonproﬁt organization Girls4Sports, where I am the secretary of the executive Youth Advisory Board. I also play the piano, do kung fu, and attend a math program, RSM. I plan to create a chess club in high school, but I will most deﬁnitely be able to devote my time to YAC meetings and activities.

How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* Attachment 1
374
Firstly, we should make sure we use social media to promote these activities. Almost all the teens in Dublin today use social media, and by creating funny and/or engaging videos, we can create excitement for these activities. We can also work with schools to promote activities through announcements, ﬂyers, the newsletter, etc. Secondly, we need to make sure the activities themselves are interesting by oﬀering a variety of events that are interesting to all teens and their preferences, such as sports, arts, gaming, STEM, and more. Another thing that interests teens is recognition and shoutouts--there's nothing as encouraging as awards, social media shoutouts, and friendly competition to motivate teens to get involved. We can create prizes such as discounts or gift cards to winners, incentivizing the youth to participate. Lastly, we need to make sure that all of this is accessible and inclusive--by having all the events on days that tend to be the most free, in large parks, Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting?* No
If yes, what was the meeting date and outcome
A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Applications must be submitted no later than
Friday, March 29, 2024, at 5:00 p.m.

For questions, please contact the Parks and Community Service's Department at (925) 556-4500 or [email protected] Attachment 1
375
To Dublin's Youth Advisory Committee:

I highly recommend Aparna Raj for her application to your committee. For the past two years, I have been Aparna's journalism teacher for the yearbook and newspaper at Fallon Middle School, witnessing firsthand her exceptional qualities and commitment to both her academics and extracurricular activities.

Aparna has maintained a remarkable 4.0 GPA throughout middle school, showcasing her dedication to academic excellence. Beyond her academic achievements, she has shown remarkable initiative and leadership by founding the Yarn Club for knitting and crocheting and co-founding the Debate Club. In addition, her role as Editor-In-Chief of the yearbook highlights her strong leadership skills and unwavering commitment to her responsibilities. Aparna goes above and beyond, often staying late proofing pages, taking photographs, and mentoring her peers to ensure the yearbook is of the highest quality.

One of Aparna's most impressive qualities is her ability to easily navigate problem-solving. She approaches challenges with a positive attitude and a strategic mindset, always looking for practical solutions. Moreover, her dedication to promoting gender equality and fighting against discrimination is truly commendable. Aparna's passion for these causes shines through in her involvement in sports, mathematics, chess, and various competitions, where she constantly learns and explores ways to address these pressing issues.

In conclusion, Aparna Raj is a standout student who embodies leadership, dedication, and a genuine passion for creating positive change. Her exceptional character, work ethic, and passion for learning will make her a valuable addition to your committee. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you require any further information.

Sincerely,
Michee Elissiry
Michelle Elissiry
Teacher - Fallon Middle School

Attachment 1
376
To whom it may concern,
My name is Caleb Baldwin, and I am a Speech and Debate teacher and coach at Fallon Middle School. I am writing this letter to strongly recommend Aparna Raj to Dublin’s Y outh Advisory Committee.

I’d like to begin by getting Aparna’s academic achievements out of the way. Aparna has achieved a 4.0 GPA each quarter since she began middle school, even while tackling the heavy workload I place on students in our speech and debate program, and even while founding and maintaining two clubs here on campus. Her grades do not reflect mere box-checking either; she brings creativity and a strong voice to any project of which she is a part. I am particularly fortunate to have seen Aparna thrive in our speech and debate class. Over the past year, I’ve seen her develop a deepening interest in national and world politics as she’s learned about the myriad topics debated by the East Bay Debate League. Aparna applies her own personal values to each of these issues, using her debates as an opportunity to broaden her worldview and gain a more nuanced understanding of the issues we face today, and especially those that her generation will face as they enter the workforce and beyond. I personally believe that these qualities are essential to advocacy, and speak to her potential strength in a youth advisor role.

Furthermore, I believe Aparna’s resilience makes her ideal for the role. Debate often stokes egos, and has certainly led to some students becoming resistant to any sort of critique or feedback. These students tend to take losses personally, rather than finding opportunities in their setbacks for growth.

Aparna is not one of these students. When she began our debate season, she opted for the role of rebuttalist, one often perceived as the most difficult; indeed, it was a difficult role for Aparna, and she struggled to strike the right balance in our first few debates. However, rather than find fault in the judges, she took their feedback seriously. She sought advice from our team’s most experienced members, and accepted novel strategies. During our most recent tournament, Aparna was our highest scoring debater, ending the evening with a perfect record.

Finally, I’d like to speak to Aparna’s strong personal ethic as evidence of her qualification as a member of the Y outh Advisory Committee. Aparna’s perspective is often focused on those who need help. In the macro sense, that translates into her debate arguments often placing emphasis on those who have the smallest voice. She tends to bring up issues like worker’s rights, child labor, and homelessness in her arguments, finding those to be the strongest assertions. In the micro sense, Aparna dedicates a great deal of her time to helping her teammates construct their cases. She has told me of many instances of helping teammates during late nights, on weekends, and even during holidays (against my advice, mind you!)
Aparna is an ambitious, service-minded, and passionate student who would be a vital asset to Dublin. Her understanding of complex issues, as well as her strong voice, make her the advocate that young people in this community need. Finally, as somebody who cares deeply about the Dublin community, I want to see people with personal convictions taking leadership roles. I hope you will consider Aparna Raj for the role.

Sincerely,
Caleb Baldwin
Fallon Middle School
Attachment 1
377
Youth Advisory Committee 2024 - 2025
Term Application
The Youth Advisory Committee consists of 13 members and three alternate members who serve a one-year term. This Committee is a positive and creative youth-driven forum that gives Dublin teens a way to provide input on programs and activities offered by the City. The Youth Advisory Committee Bylaws and Rules of Procedure govern the meetings and activities of the Committee.

Youth Advisory Committee Bylaws and Rules of Procedure govern the meetings and activities.

To browse past Agendas and Minutes for the Commission, visit the City's Online Records Portal.

Youth Advisory Committee Information Letter
Please acknowledge that you have downloaded and read the Youth Advisory Committee Information Letter regarding regular meeting dates, and other commitments required as a committee member. * Yes
Date Time*
3/29/2024
First Name *
Veda
Last Name *
Raman
Address *
Street Address
Address Line 2
City
Dublin
State/Province/Region
CA
Postal/Zip Code
94568
Country
USA
Phone (Primary) * Phone (Secondary)
E-mail - Please do not use a DUSD email *
What school will you attend in the 2024-2025 school year? * Emerald High School
What grade will you be in during the 2024-2025 school year? * 9th
Application Questions
378
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.

Letter of Recommendation - Veda Raman.pdf 34.93KB
Teachers, counselors, and coaches can email the letter of recommendation directly to [email protected] by March 29, 2024 by 5:00 pm.

Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* I want to make a diﬀerence in my community, and the Youth Advisory Committee gives me a chance to help the youth of Dublin. It gives me a chance to let my voice be heard in decisions that will beneﬁt me and my peers. Gandhi said, “Be the change that you wish to see in the world.” I’ve always believed the best way to improve something is to jump in, and get involved. YAC has been shaping the Dublin community in a positive way for many years, and will give me an opportunity to give back.

What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* I have honed my leadership and organizational skills through getting involved in many school and community activities. As a WEB leader, I helped incoming sixth graders settle down into middle school. I also tutor students at school in various subjects through CJSF. Being involved in Girl Scouts for the last six years has given me several volunteering opportunities as well as helped me learn collaboration and teamwork. I believe these skills would make me a strong candidate for the YAC.

What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC can address these issues? *
The last few years have not been easy for teens in the US. The rapid increase in social media use among teens has resulted in social anxiety, depression and a lack of communication skills. This has also been ampliﬁed by the years of isolation due to the pandemic. Teens, now more than ever, need a lot of help from our local government bodies. I have a few ideas to address these through YAC.

I want to make it easier for Dublin youth to have access to counselors and support outside of school, where they might be more comfortable talking.

Social media has also separated many teens, so the YAC could organize events speciﬁcally for youth, where teens socialize and get to know each other.

The YAC could also start a program for kids who need tutoring or help with homework outside of school, and teens could volunteer to provide support.

What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2024-2025 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities? * I am involved in a few activities, such as Girl Scouts and swimming, but I will be able to devote ample time each month toward YAC meetings and activities, and make it a priority.

How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* I would raise awareness about events through schools, through morning announcements, school emails and newsletters. Teens also have diﬀerent interests, so I would make sure that the YAC oﬀers a variety of youth-focused activities and events that appeal to many diﬀerent people. Additionally, I would motivate more youth to volunteer by oﬀering them the ability to easily earn service hours.

For questions, please contact the Parks and Community Service's Department at (925) 556-4500 or [email protected] 380
Eleanor Murray Fallon
Middle School
Dear Selections Committee,
I am pleased to recommend V eda Raman for the Dublin Y outh Advisory. I have had the pleasure of knowing her for the past year as her English teacher at Fallon Middle School. During this time, I have come to know V eda as a dedicated and driven individual who excels both inside and outside the classroom.

In my capacity as her teacher, I have witnessed V eda's academic prowess firsthand. She consistently demonstrates a strong work ethic, a thirst for knowledge, and excellent problem-solving skills. Her insightful contributions during class discussions and her ability to grasp complex concepts are truly commendable. Moreover, she exhibits a passion for learning that is inspiring to her peers and instructors alike.

Beyond her academic achievements, V eda is actively involved in a number of extracurricular activities that showcase her leadership abilities and commitment to serving her community. She is a valued member of the Girl Scouts and is currently working on her Silver Project, which involves building cat shelters for the V alley Humane Society. Her dedication to this project speaks volumes about her compassionate nature and desire to make a positive impact on the world around her.

In addition to her involvement in the Girl Scouts, V eda is also a tutor for the California Junior Scholarship Federation (CJSF).

Through her role as a tutor, she has demonstrated patience, empathy, and a genuine desire to help her peers succeed academically. Her ability to explain complex concepts in a clear and concise manner has undoubtedly contributed to the academic growth of many students under her guidance.

In summary, V eda is an exceptional individual who possesses a unique blend of academic excellence, leadership skills, and a heart for service. I am confident that she will thrive in any academic setting and will continue to make meaningful contributions to her community. I wholeheartedly recommend V eda for the Dublin Y outh Advisory and am excited to see all that she will accomplish in the future.

Please feel free to contact me if you require any further information.

Sincerely,
Matthew Wakerling
Matthew Wakerling
8th grade lead English/Video Production/Photography
Fallon Middle School
3601 Kohnen Way Dublin, CA. 94568 925-875-9376 FAX 925-829-7261 381
March 26, 2024
It is my pleasure to recommend Veda Raman for Dublin’s Youth Advisory Council. I was Veda’s 7th grade science teacher last year, and continue to see her every week because she is tutoring one of my current students.

In all my years of teaching, there is a small group of students that stand out as being truly exceptional. Veda is one of them. She’s extremely bright and did wonderfully in my class last year. She also has a wonderful rapport both with other students as well as with teachers. She has a level of maturity beyond her years, but also has a warmth that draws people to her. It was for these reasons that I nominated her last summer for the AAUW T ech Trek program, a STEM summer program for promising middle school girls.

Earlier this academic year, I met with the counselor of a student who is having a lot of difficulty in my class. We decided to select an eighth grade student who could work with this student, and both the counselor and I immediately thought of Veda out of all the possible eighth graders.

Since then, Veda has been meeting with this student weekly, providing academic support as well as patience, encouragement, and understanding.

Veda participates in a variety of other school activities. At the beginning of the academic year she was selected to be a “WEB” leader, charged with welcoming sixth graders to Fallon and helping them adjust to their new school. Veda also plays viola in the school orchestra.

Outside of school, Veda is a Girl Scout, and participates in Destination Imagination, a competitive STEAM youth organization.

Because of her personal qualities, intelligence, and interest in helping others, Veda Raman would be a wonderful person to serve on the Youth Advisory Council for Dublin. I would be happy to discuss her candidacy further if you have any questions. My cell phone number is and my email address is
Stephanie Louris, PhD
Science and Project Lead the Way T eacher
Fallon Middle School
382
Youth Advisory Committee 2024 - 2025
Term Application
The Youth Advisory Committee consists of 13 members and three alternate members who serve a one-year term. This Committee is a positive and creative youth-driven forum that gives Dublin teens a way to provide input on programs and activities offered by the City. The Youth Advisory Committee Bylaws and Rules of Procedure govern the meetings and activities of the Committee.

Youth Advisory Committee Bylaws and Rules of Procedure govern the meetings and activities.

To browse past Agendas and Minutes for the Commission, visit the City's Online Records Portal.

Youth Advisory Committee Information Letter
Please acknowledge that you have downloaded and read the Youth Advisory Committee Information Letter regarding regular meeting dates, and other commitments required as a committee member. * Yes
Date Time*
3/29/2024
First Name *
Gautham
Last Name *
Ramalingam
Address *
Street Address
Address Line 2
City
Dublin
State/Province/Region
CA
Postal/Zip Code
94568
Country
United States
Phone (Primary) * Phone (Secondary)
E-mail - Please do not use a DUSD email *
What school will you attend in the 2024-2025 school year? * Dublin High School
What grade will you be in during the 2024-2025 school year? * 9th grade
Application Questions
Attachment 1
383
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.

Teachers, counselors, and coaches can email the letter of recommendation directly to [email protected] by March 29, 2024 by 5:00 pm.

Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* Ever since I was little, my dad often reminded me, 'the world can always do with a little more kindness.' From a young age, my parents have instilled in me the importance of contributing to my community, showing me that even small actions can have a big impact around me.

Whether it be planting trees, donating to food drives, or painting schools as a Boy Scout, growing up involved with community service has not only been rewarding, but has taught me the value of working together for the common good: a principle the Youth Advisory Committee (YAC) embodies in its core values.

As a member of the YAC, I have the power to not just be a part of community service events around the city, but to organize and lead these events while inspiring students of all ages to take part. Speciﬁcally, I am interested in ideating more community events that cater to a wider range of demographics including peers my age, ensuring that everyone in Dublin feels included and represented. I see immense value in expanding initiatives in mental health such as the Youth Mental Health Forum that push Dublin to be a more inclusive city for all of my peers.

Though I have many ideas to contribute, I believe the best way to learn about what the city has to oﬀer is by being involved ﬁrsthand in its eﬀorts and being a part of the YAC allows me to do just that.

Above all, I am particularly eager to join the YAC because it represents a platform where I can collaborate with like-minded peers who share my enthusiasm for making this city a better place. Meeting community organizers and members while forming long-lasting friendships with other members and leaders on the council is an opportunity I can be a part of nowhere else.

What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* One of the key attributes I bring to the Youth Advisory Committee (YAC) is my resilient leadership experience. Serving as the president of my Fallon Middle School’s student council, I have been entrusted with the responsibility of overseeing our school's budgeting and coordinating various fundraising events. This role has honed my ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously, ensuring that each is executed with precision and success.

Additionally, my communication skills have been greatly enhanced through my involvement in Peer Education and Counseling (PEAC), an elective at my school focused on supporting students' mental well-being. In this capacity, I have developed a deeper understanding of empathy, active listening, and eﬀective dialogue, all of which are vital for a mental health advocate. This experience has not only strengthened my interpersonal skills but has also taught me the value of patience and support in fostering a positive community environment.

I believe it is crucial for a YAC member to be proactive in identifying and ideating opportunities and adept at listening to the needs of all community members and peers, all qualities that align with my leadership experiences. My track record demonstrates my ability to work eﬀectively within a team and contribute to a cohesive and productive group dynamic.

What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC can address these issues? *
One of the most signiﬁcant challenges facing teens in Dublin today is the mounting academic stress and the intense pressure to succeed. The introduction of a new high school in Emerald High School and the expansion of course oﬀerings and more rigorous curricula across the district have signiﬁcantly contributed to these pressures, pressures that I have sometimes felt personally as well. Conversations with my peers have revealed a widespread concern about the increasing demands of our academic environments, which can be overwhelming for many students across the district.

To address these issues, I believe the Youth Advisory Committee (YAC) can play a pivotal role in fostering a supportive academic community.

One eﬀective strategy could be organizing speaking events for YAC members at school assemblies and rallies. One of the biggest ways to alleviate these academic pressures among the student population is to make sure they know their voices are being heard. As community leaders, the opportunity for YAC members to speak directly to peers across the district at major school events can provide reassurance to students that they are not alone in facing these challenges. This visibility can also promote a sense of unity and shared purpose among students, helping to alleviate some of the stress they experience.

Additionally, the implementation of an anonymous drop box in each school could serve as a conﬁdential avenue for students to express their concerns related to academic pressures and other school-related issues. This initiative would not only provide students with a safe space to voice their struggles but also enable the YAC to gather valuable insights into the most pressing challenges faced by students across the district. By analyzing the information collected, the YAC can tailor its initiatives to address the speciﬁc needs and concerns of the student Attachment 1
384
body. Potentially writing back personalized responses to those who may want them can foster a more supportive and responsive academic environment.

Through these measures, the YAC can signiﬁcantly contribute to reducing the academic stress and pressures experienced by students in Dublin. By actively listening to and addressing the concerns of the student body, the YAC can help create a more nurturing and empowering academic environment for all.

As a member of the California Junior Scholarship Federation (CJSF) club, I have extensive experience tutoring other middle school students in subjects like math and science, along with organizing study sessions for students with disabilities. I have also contributed to a plethora of community service projects, including helping disabled students from across the tri-valley at events like Special Olympics at FMS and organizing fundraisers for the Alameda County Food Bank (ACFB), the Dublin Food Pantry, and the Children’s Emergency Food Bank (CEFB) throughout middle school.

In addition, through the PEAC elective I am taking this year, I have visited classrooms and spoken at school rallies about issues like tobacco and substance abuse prevention as well as taught about mental health and illness by hosting mindfulness workshops at Fallon Middle School.

In addition, I currently serve as president of the Fallon Middle School student council. In this role, I am in charge of the ﬁscal responsibilities of various fundraisers and activities around the school.

Outside of school, I actively participate in VEX robotics meets, where I collaborate with teammates to design, build, and program robots for competitions. These events not only enhance my technical skills but also foster teamwork, problem-solving, and innovation.

Next year, at Dublin High School, I plan to continue much of the community service I am involved with this year. Particularly, I am interested in joining the Best Buddies club, California Scholarship Federation (CSF), and the Environmental Technology and Sustainability Club at Dublin High School along with being a part of the Boys Volleyball team as well.

My extensive community service and leadership experience organizing fundraisers and workshops along with working with various groups around campus will undoubtedly help me contribute new opinions and insights as a member of the YAC. I have no doubt that I will be able to devote time each month for the YAC and proactively balance my various commitments with the committee if selected.

How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* Engaging teens in community involvement and city-sponsored activities requires a strategic approach that resonates with their interests and communication channels. Here's how I envision enhancing teen participation:

The arts present a vibrant avenue to connect with the youth, especially outside major events like Splatter, where the teen and young adult demographics often feel overlooked. By incorporating performances by high school bands and featuring modern music genres at festivals and events, we can signiﬁcantly increase the appeal of these gatherings for students. This approach not only celebrates the diverse talents within our schools but also encourages students to participate through the powerful medium of word-of-mouth, as they share their excitement and involvement with peers.

Moreover, there's a noticeable gap in awareness among teens regarding the plethora of events hosted by the city. To bridge this gap, I propose a more targeted advertising strategy that places information directly in the environments frequented by teenagers, such as middle and high schools, parks, and popular shopping centers. Ensuring that information about upcoming events is both visible and accessible in these locations can greatly improve event attendance and participation rates among the youth.

Additionally, organizing events speciﬁcally tailored to teen interests can further boost engagement. For instance, sports fundraisers and thrifting or clothing drives not only cater to popular activities and concerns among teenagers but also oﬀer unique incentives for their involvement. These events provide platforms for teens to express their individuality, support causes they care about, and connect with their community in meaningful ways.

By cultivating the arts, improving targeted communication, and hosting teen-oriented events, we can signiﬁcantly enhance teen involvement in community activities and City-sponsored events. These eﬀorts will not only enrich the lives of Dublin's youth but also contribute to a more vibrant, inclusive, and connected community.

Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting?* Attachment 1
385
No
A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Applications must be submitted no later than
Friday, March 29, 2024, at 5:00 p.m.

For questions, please contact the Parks and Community Service's Department at (925) 556-4500 or [email protected] Attachment 1
386
March 29, 2024
Dear Members of the Youth Advisory Council:

It is with great enthusiasm and absolute confidence that I recommend Gautham Ramalingam for a position on the Youth Advisory Coouncil. As his former 6th grade Core teacher and the advisor for both Fallon’s Student Council and the California Junior Scholarship Federation, I have witnessed first-hand Gautham's growth as a student and a leader on campus with a strong desire to serve his community.

Throughout his time at Fallon Middle School, Gautham has taken an active role in organizing food drives for local food banks and also served as a dedicated volunteer for the Special Olympics hosted this year at Fallon. His support for special needs students throughout the event underscored his commitment to creating an inclusive environment and demonstrated his ability to unite his peers towards a common, compassionate goal.

As a member of Fallon’s Student Council, Gautham’s strong desire to give back to his school community motivated his peers to participate in successful fundraisers which he in turn voted on the allocation of the funds raised to enhance Fallon Middle School’s resources. Throughout, Gautham remained an empathetic and determined leader, with the ability to meet the needs of his peers and our school community.

I am confident that Gautham's unique blend of leadership, compassion, and dedication would make him an invaluable asset to the Youth Advisory Council. His vision for a more engaged and vibrant community aligns perfectly with the council's objectives, I have no doubt that he will contribute significantly to shaping the future of Dublin.

I am eager to see the contributions Gautham Ramalingam will make to the Youth Advisory Council and our community at large.

Sincerely,
Rachael Guinther
Teacher and Student Council Advisor
Fallon Middle School
Attachment 1
387
Youth Advisory Committee 2024 - 2025
Term Application
The Youth Advisory Committee consists of 13 members and three alternate members who serve a one-year term. This Committee is a positive and creative youth-driven forum that gives Dublin teens a way to provide input on programs and activities offered by the City. The Youth Advisory Committee Bylaws and Rules of Procedure govern the meetings and activities of the Committee.

Youth Advisory Committee Bylaws and Rules of Procedure govern the meetings and activities.

To browse past Agendas and Minutes for the Commission, visit the City's Online Records Portal.

Youth Advisory Committee Information Letter
Please acknowledge that you have downloaded and read the Youth Advisory Committee Information Letter regarding regular meeting dates, and other commitments required as a committee member. * Yes
Date Time*
3/25/2024
First Name *
Leilani
Last Name *
Rudulph
Address *
Street Address
Address Line 2
City
Dublin
State/Province/Region
CA
Postal/Zip Code
94568
Country
USA
Phone (Primary) * Phone (Secondary)
E-mail - Please do not use a DUSD email *
What school will you attend in the 2024-2025 school year? * Dublin High School
What grade will you be in during the 2024-2025 school year? * 10th Grade
Application Questions
Attachment 1
388
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.

Rudulph, Leilani.pdf 170.71KB
Teachers, counselors, and coaches can email the letter of recommendation directly to [email protected] by March 29, 2024 by 5:00 pm.

Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* See Attached application
What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* See Attached application
What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC can address these issues? *
See Attached application
What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2024-2025 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities? * See Attached application
How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* See Attached application
Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting?* No
If yes, what was the meeting date and outcome
A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Applications must be submitted no later than
Friday, March 29, 2024, at 5:00 p.m.

For questions, please contact the Parks and Community Service's Department at (925) 556-4500 or [email protected] Attachment 1
389
Print
Youth Advisory Committee Application 2024-2025 term -
Submission #7071
Date Submitted: 3/22/2024
Attachment 1
390

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 2024-2025 term, which runs from June 1, 2024, to May 31, 2025. Application deadline is Friday, March 29, 2024, 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 2024-25 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 Nicki Wanzenried, Recreation Coordinator, at 925-833-6645 or email
First Name*
Leilani
Last Name*
Rudulph
Attachment 1
391
Street Address*
City*
Dublin
State*
California
Zip*
94568
Email Address*
Phone Number*
What school will you attend in the 2024-2025 school year?* Dublin High School
What grade will you be in during the 2024-2025 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 Youth Advisory Committee so that I can gain an indispensable, abundant leadership experience that I would not be able to gain anywhere else. I also want to take advantage of this opportunity so that I can learn what it is like to have such a great role where I can make decisions and be part of the decisions that go into making 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.)

2. What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* Some skills that I possess that would make me a strong candidate is my communication skills, and my organization. I have experience with working in a work environment from my internship that I have. I work for a program called Career Launch where I call school districts, board directors and principals all over California to help them integrate the program Career Launch. This experience will help me communicate whatever information I learn back to the committee officers. I am also organized with my work, and I know this skill will help me when dealing with a lot of work.
(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.)
Attachment 1
392

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 that teens In Dublin are currently dealing with is not having comfort in their own skin and enjoying the teen life. I notice a lot in my high school teens who don't enjoy being teenagers enough. A lot of it has to do with us having a lot of stress due to the highly competitive academic challenges in school. However, I still think there is a way for us to be competitive and still have fun! I want to do this by promoting the amazing outdoor activities going on in Dublin all throughout the year, while also using my platform to promote more mental health awareness, and self care! I want to use my social media platforms to push teens to get out more and enjoy 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.)

4. What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2024-2025 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities?* Some activities that I am involved in this year are track and field the Falcon Track club, I am also a Wellness Ambassador where I help promote mental health Wellness around the school. I am in two clubs, the Latinos Unidos, and the Black Student Union. I hope to get into the FMP mentorship next year for my junior year, as I have applied to it. I also plan to sign up for elections to be on the board of members BSU 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.)

5. How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?*
My plan to get other teens involved in the Dublin community's events and sponsored activities is by using my instagram social media account. I also want to do more outreach in my high school by posting fliers, and passing them to my friends to pass to others. I can also let my classes know by making a small announcement. I can make use of the announcements in the office. I can also ask the teachers if I can write the events that are happening on the whiteboard. I am passionate about the events and activities that go on In Dublin. I have been attending all of the events since I have been living in this city at age10. Now that I am in high school I try to go to these events with friends. I would have so much fun helping sponsor all of the awesome events that the Dublin City has to offer.
(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.)

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.

Attachment 1 393
Upload Letter of Recommendation (required).*
Leilani Rudulph - Letter of
Recommendation.pdf
Upload 2nd Letter of Recommendation (optional)
Choose File No file chosen
Application materials must be submitted via this online application form. The application deadline is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 29, 2024. Applications or letters of recommendation will not be accepted after the deadline.

Attachment 1
394
Dublin High School
8151 Village Pkwy, Dublin, CA 94568
To whom it may concern,
I am writing this letter to provide a strong recommendation for Leilani Rudulph, a bright student who has been in my Algebra 1 class during the previous academic year at Dublin High School.

Leilani is a hard working, intelligent, and considerate student. In Algebra 1, Leilani frequently asked questions to clarify concepts and probe deeper thinking. She worked well with her peers, helping those around her to understand concepts and different mathematical processes. She collaborated with other students to further their learning and deepen problem solving skills.

Outside of the classroom, Leilani is a strong track runner and a very passionate Wellness Ambassador. Leilani has been in the A VID program for 3 years and is a very involved student at our high school.

As a student representative to the parks and community services commission, Leilani will jump at opportunities to be involved and will bring bright ideas and the determination to bring goals to fruition. Leilani is an effective communicator who can share ideas openly and honestly. Being a member of the Y outh Advisory Community will allow Leilani to showcase and further develop her leadership skills. I am confident that Leilani will use her determination, motivation, passion, focus, and kindness alongside her academic ability and commitment to community involvement to bring a positive impact. Leilani is an ideal candidate, and I recommend without reservation Leilani Rudulph for this position.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Best,
Michelle Wang
Teacher, AP Calculus AB and Geometry
Dublin High School
Attachment 1
395
Youth Advisory Committee 2024 - 2025
Term Application
The Youth Advisory Committee consists of 13 members and three alternate members who serve a one-year term. This Committee is a positive and creative youth-driven forum that gives Dublin teens a way to provide input on programs and activities offered by the City. The Youth Advisory Committee Bylaws and Rules of Procedure govern the meetings and activities of the Committee.

Youth Advisory Committee Bylaws and Rules of Procedure govern the meetings and activities.

To browse past Agendas and Minutes for the Commission, visit the City's Online Records Portal.

Youth Advisory Committee Information Letter
Please acknowledge that you have downloaded and read the Youth Advisory Committee Information Letter regarding regular meeting dates, and other commitments required as a committee member. * Yes
Date Time*
3/29/2024
First Name *
Nithila
Last Name *
Sadheesh
Address *
Street Address
Address Line 2
City
Dublin
State/Province/Region
CA
Postal/Zip Code
94568
Country
United States
Phone (Primary) * Phone (Secondary)
E-mail - Please do not use a DUSD email *
What school will you attend in the 2024-2025 school year? * Dublin High School
What grade will you be in during the 2024-2025 school year? * 12 Application Questions
Attachment 1
396
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.

NithilaSadheesh_LetterOfRecommendation1.pdf 391.85KB
NithilaSadheesh_LetterOfRecommendation2.pdf 793.86KB
Teachers, counselors, and coaches can email the letter of recommendation directly to [email protected] by March 29, 2024 by 5:00 pm.

Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* I deeply desire to continue being a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee because I have found tremendous value in the community and opportunities our city provides and I want to convey these valuable experiences to the Dublin youth. Throughout the last six years I have lived in Dublin, the interactions I have had with diﬀerent people, the city-wide events I have attended, and the overall environment of our city has planted in me a deep sense of care for our community. The youth are undoubtedly an important part of our city and deserve opportunities and events that uplift and empower them. It would be an honor for me to be a voice for the youth and if chosen to be in the committee, I will ensure that their needs are heard and addressed. Furthermore, my current term in the Youth Advisory Committee has allowed me to more deeply connect with our community and has further ignited my passion to give back. I have also gained skills, experiences, and knowledge that I believe I can implement to make a profound impact on the lives of the Dublin youth.

What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* First, I possess strong organization and time-management skills which are critical for the event-planning YAC does. When carrying out projects, the approach I use constantly is to create milestones and subtasks and work on them in a consistent manner. This is something I implemented as part of the Beneﬁt Concert Ad-Hoc committee and it proved very eﬀective. Next, I can communicate eﬀectively and clearly, which will allow me to convey my ideas and perspectives to the rest of the committee without wasting time in confusion. This will enable us to achieve our goals eﬃciently and quickly. Hand in hand with communication, I am a strong listener. I am a ﬁrm believer in hearing diﬀerent perspectives from a variety of people to foster a diverse and collaborative environment, and my skill as a listener will allow me to do this well.

Finally, I have strong leadership qualities that I have employed in various environments like class discussions and club meetings at school. I am able to lead with a balance of empathy and assertiveness while motivating the people I work with. But above all, what I believe is the most important thing I have that makes me a strong candidate for YAC is my passion. My passion for community service, leadership, and the youth of our community. I hope to be able to use my skills to have a positive impact on the youth and represent their voice in our city.

What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC can address these issues? *
I believe one of the primary issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with is mental health which stems from relationships, pressure from school, and stress about the future. I believe YAC can address these issues by creating more community service events for teens. For example, there can be an event where teens come together to assemble donation kits for which we can obtain materials from service organizations. I believe community service events would be extremely eﬀective in addressing mental health issues because they alleviate stress, naturally make people feel more positive since they are helping out, and also build a strong sense of community among our teens.

Having a sense of community is a crucial part of mental health as it emphasizes a feeling of belonging and provides networks of social support. These types of events would also garner lots of support as teens are constantly looking for volunteering opportunities. Something else I believe teens in Dublin currently are struggling with is ﬁnding their passion and the career they want to pursue. I think YAC could address this through an event that allows Dublin youth to shadow professionals around the city and hear about what their various jobs entail. Finally, something I would implement if on the Youth Advisory Committee next year is an online survey at the beginning of the year where students can provide direct input on what they would like to see for our committee. This will solidify our plans for the year and give us new ideas as well.

What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2024-2025 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities? * The activities I am currently involved in include STEM related activities like independent research and hackathons, school clubs like Girls Who Code and Spanish Honors Society, and piano. I will be continuing these same activities during the 2024-2025 school year along with potentially getting a tutoring job, something I am very passionate about. I will deﬁnitely be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities. Like this current year where I have attended every meeting, YAC will be one of my top priorities. I also am aware of the importance of my position on the committee representing the youth and will put my full eﬀort into making sure I carry out my position exceptionally.

How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* Attachment 1
397
From what I have seen in my current term in YAC, the most eﬀective medium for reaching teens has been through school wide emails. These emails go out to everyone and most teens are constantly checking their emails for opportunities and important notices. If chosen, one of my priorities on YAC next year will be to create a more established partnership between Dublin schools and YAC in order to be able to send these emails easily and more regularly. Furthermore, strategically placed posters around school campuses, like the ARC or student union at Dublin High can be easily seen by teens. I have also noticed that reposting YAC events on social media reaches a wide range of people. This is something I will do next year and encourage the rest of the committee to do as well. Most importantly, I will push for events that truly intrigue and beneﬁt the youth so that they themselves will be eager to participate. The survey I mentioned earlier will be an important tool in accomplishing this.

Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting?* No
If yes, what was the meeting date and outcome A b I h tt d d YAC l ti d B A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Applications must be submitted no later than
Friday, March 29, 2024, at 5:00 p.m.

For questions, please contact the Parks and Community Service's Department at (925) 556-4500 or [email protected] Attachment 1
398
11 March 2024
Dear Selection Board - Dublin Youth Advisory Committee, I am writing to wholeheartedly recommend Nithila Sadheesh for consideration as a member of your esteemed Youth Advisory Board. As Nithila's Teacher at Dublin High School, I have had the privilege of repeatedly witnessing her remarkable growth, leadership qualities, and dedication to community service.

Nithila has consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership skills, empathy, and a strong commitment to making a positive impact in her community. Whether it's her current involvement in the Dublin Youth Advisory Committee, leading initiatives to promote mental health awareness, or volunteering at various community events throughout the city, Nithila has consistently shown initiative and a genuine passion for effecting change.

One of Nithila's most outstanding qualities is her ability to effectively communicate and collaborate with individuals from diverse backgrounds. She is adept at listening to different perspectives, fostering constructive dialogue, and working towards consensus-a skill that is invaluable for a youth advisory board tasked with addressing multifaceted issues and advocating for youth-related concerns within the inner-workings of a city government.

In addition to her leadership abilities, Nithila possesses a strong sense of responsibility and integrity. She approaches every task with diligence, professionalism, and a genuine desire to make a difference. Her positive attitude, resilience in the face of challenges, and unwavering dedication to service make her an exemplary candidate for the Youth Advisory Committee.

Beyond her impressive academic achievements and extracurricular involvement, Nithila possesses a rare combination of humility, curiosity, and a thirst for knowledge. She is always eager to learn, grow, and explore new opportunities for personal and professional development.

Attachment 1
399
I have no doubt that Nithila will make significant contributions to your Youth Advisory Committee and serve as a passionate advocate for the voices and concerns of young people in our community. She has the vision, drive, and leadership skills necessary to inspire positive change and make a lasting impact. She is exactly the right person for this committee Please feel free to contact me if you require any further information or clarification regarding Nithila's qualifications and suitability for this esteemed opportunity. Thank you for considering her for this important role.

Sincerely,
Patrick M. McKie
Command Sergeant Major, US Army (Retired)
US History Teacher, Dublin HS

Attachment 1
400

DUBLIN HIGH SCHOOL
"THE GAEL FORCE"
A California Distinguished School
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
3/20/20234
To whom it may concern,
It is with great pleasure that I personally recommend Nithila Sadheesh, as an outstading candidate. I had the opportunity to meet her in my Spanish 4 Honors class. Nithila embodies qualities of intellect, proactivity, discipline, politeness, and conscientiousness, with a constant determination towards learning. She consistently excels in her studies, earning outstanding grades in multiple rigorous courses, including Spanish.

Nithila is a quick and proactive learner with a natural aptitude for comprehending languages. She grasps challenging grammar concepts with a brief explanation, able to apply them with accuracy in both oral and written communication. In class, she constantly produces high-quality work, actively participates, and communicates fluently in the target language. Her ability to engage in group conversations is remarkable. Nithila articulates her opinions clearly, contributes meaningful ideas, and poses thought-provoking questions that stimulate active and engaging discussions within her group. Furthermore, she is a supportive team player , always attentive to details and organization, ready to step in whenever her group requires guidance, decision-making, or conflict resolution.

Moreover , Nithila is an active member of our Spanish Honor Society, demonstrating her commitment to achieving excellence in the language acquisition, understanding and appreciation of Hispanic culture. She met strict requirements to join the society, including maintaining As in all her Spanish courses, attending meetings regularly, and completing community service hours. Last year , she received a silver medal award for her outstanding performance on the National Spanish Examination 2023. This year , Nithila represented our chapter and school in a Poetry Declamation Contest in Palo Alto, CA, where she placed third in the Advanced Category. I remembered when she enrolled in the contest, she mentioned her goal was to improve her public speaking skills. No doubt she worked diligently to achieve her goal. Her dedication and personal drive to succeed are evident.

Nithila has incredible time management skills, effectively balancing her academic responsibilities with several extracurricular activities that enrich her learning and contribute significantly to our school community. She is actively involved in various clubs and organizations, including the DHS Girls Who Code, CodeHers, California Scholarship Federation and Society of Women’s Engineers, recognizing the importance of active participation to build a stronger community.

Nithila's conscientious and proactive approach extends toher volunteer work across multiple settings. She generously gives her time to different community events and programs, including the Advisory Committee for Dublin, where she contributes her insights and skills to support their initiatives. She provides input on activities, helps with advertising, contacting performers, creating event schedules and fundraising for their programs.

Above all, Nithila simply exudes a warm and friendly persona, making her approachable and adaptable in any situation. I have no doubt she is the ideal candidate for your program.

Sincerely,
Rocio Serrano
Spanish Language Teacher and Spanish Honors Advisor
Dublin High School
8151 Village Parkway
Dublin, California 94568-1699
(925) 833-3300 – Fax (925) 833-3322
Attachment 1
401
Youth Advisory Committee 2024 - 2025
Term Application
The Youth Advisory Committee consists of 13 members and three alternate members who serve a one-year term. This Committee is a positive and creative youth-driven forum that gives Dublin teens a way to provide input on programs and activities offered by the City. The Youth Advisory Committee Bylaws and Rules of Procedure govern the meetings and activities of the Committee.

Youth Advisory Committee Bylaws and Rules of Procedure govern the meetings and activities.

To browse past Agendas and Minutes for the Commission, visit the City's Online Records Portal.

Youth Advisory Committee Information Letter
Please acknowledge that you have downloaded and read the Youth Advisory Committee Information Letter regarding regular meeting dates, and other commitments required as a committee member. * Yes
Date Time*
3/29/2024
First Name *
Sahara
Last Name *
Salemi
Address *
Street Address
Address Line 2
City
Dublin
State/Province/Region
California
Postal/Zip Code
94568
Country
United States
Phone (Primary) * Phone (Secondary)
E-mail - Please do not use a DUSD email *
What school will you attend in the 2024-2025 school year? * Dublin High School
What grade will you be in during the 2024-2025 school year? * 11th grade
Application Questions
Attachment 1
402
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.

Letter of Recommendation .pdf 59.24KB
Teachers, counselors, and coaches can email the letter of recommendation directly to [email protected] by March 29, 2024 by 5:00 pm.

Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* The youth advisory committee holds signiﬁcant importance in the community of Dublin and is impactful in improving the city. Knowing that there is such a grand amount of youth in our community, the need for our voices is mandatory. The committee ensures adolescent voices and innovations are promoted towards involvement in the city's governing. As a selected member, I will continue to spotlight the range of diversity in our youth population. Acknowledging the diverse races in the youth allows teens to see an embodiment of themselves in the community and create a sense of belonging. I would like to strengthen and advocate for the youth's concerns and ideologies certifying a positive outcome for Dublin’s environment. As a committee member, I will build a reliable support system for the youth body accessible at any instant. Being an active teen in Dublin’s youth has given me an eminent insight that brings teen advocacy in decisions to be more authentic in aiding the youth's necessities. As a teen, I am conscious of the prominent adversities teens in Dublin encounter. Standing as a member of the board I intend to solidify and grant awareness to the youth’s challenging cases. The reasoning for applying for Dublin's Youth Advisory is to embark on change and create a beneﬁcial impact in Dublin’s community. I would aspire to be part of that change, understanding this advisory committee is an outlet to do so.

What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* Having multiple interests in various topics allowed me to possess characteristics that can ensure help on my behalf towards Dublin's Youth Advisory Committee. My overall greatest strength is my ambition, bearing drive, and motivation to be the pivotal reasons for one to exceed their goals. My ambition encouraged me to break out of my comfort zone and interact with others, create clubs, join non-proﬁts/programs, play sports, and internally help me ﬁnd conﬁdence in myself to pursue my aspirations. My strength will be helpful as an advisor for the youth because of my ambition to help people of all ages and backgrounds while being in a professional ballpark. For this program, detail is valuable for planning Youth Advisory Committee events. Having an attentive individual who studies and ﬁxates on solidifying and perfecting organized events is a pathway to the committee's success. Over the past years, I have established distinguished communication skills through involvement in various clubs, a non-proﬁt, conferences, and other extracurriculars. I have gained conﬁdence and taken the initiative to build bonds and be considerate of others' perspectives. Being around various opinions and people can create conﬂict, but my empathetic and patient character is helpful in a committee.

What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC can address these issues? *
When addressing pressing issues that our Dublin youth body is facing, it's crucial to handle the dilemmas beginning with spreading awareness. I have witnessed a substantial number of obstacles that I believe are impactful for the teen community in Dublin. Starting with mental health, many of the youth battle with mental health issues such as depression and anxiety. It is also necessary to acknowledge the other range of mental disorders teens can face.

Secondly, racial insensitivity or the lack of racial awareness is signiﬁcant to address regarding Dublin as racially ambiguous. Repeatedly enforcing racist comments can evolve into bullying and hurting an individual's self-esteem.

Lastly, unhealthy academic competition is a major battle against many youths in the student body. The high extremely competitive educational performance that is asked of students to bring forth at Dublin, is creating detrimental eﬀects on their welfare.

Identifying the inﬂuence exerted by the Youth Advisory Council, we can arrange seminars, webinars, and workshops dedicated to preaching each speciﬁc issue while raising public awareness about the challenges faced by Dublin teens. Collaborating with associations that share our commitment to supporting teenagers in tackling these issues would be valuable in cultivating further aid and diverse viewpoints.

What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2024-2025 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities? * s for the experiences that make me credible for YAC, I have helped volunteer in my community by assisting our yearly festivals, helping cancer patients through the American Cancer Society club, and volunteering and organizing events at MeccBayouth, a non-proﬁt that I have made as vice president of events that spread awareness of the struggles happening in the Middle East. I am passionate about giving back to and supporting enrichment for others, embracing my passion. I currently volunteer as a tutor at Mind Mentor Institute. The institution is to sustain refugee children who need aid to adjust to the new education system in America. My job is to aid them with their math and English curriculum.

Attachment 1
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Furthermore, I am an active volunteer at Mom's work, which enforces aid for the elderly fun time. Additionally, I have gained plenty of leadership experience due to making the ﬁrst Afghan Student Association at Dublin High School and planning events to showcase Afghanistan's beautiful culture and awareness of its dilemmas. At my school, I am part of the California Scholarship Federation, Interact, the varsity water polo team, social media manager for the Muslim Student Association, and the varsity swim team, allowing me to inherit time management skills from my extracurriculars. In addition, this year I have participated in Dublin High's annual diversity rally, presenting to the school a speech about the lack of education for Afghan women in Afghanistan and a speech on behalf of MSA. I was also selected to attend the Young Women's Leadership Summit at Stanford University, which was a signiﬁcant opportunity to network with accomplished leaders and endure interactive business workshops. Being part of MeccBayouth has made me capable of running sporting events, and fundraisers, and making merchandise for a beneﬁcial cause. In the summer of 2023, I worked as a cashier and shadow at a dentist's clinic. A pathway I have connected to the Dublin youth is through the DHS Afghan Student Association, coming to Dublin Elementary to read aloud and positively share inspiring Afghan people in classes.

Lastly, I want to acknowledge the imperativeness of these extracurricular experiences that built me with accountability and awareness— allowing me to know how to devote time and eﬀort to each activity in YAC's meetings and events. While holding an open mentality, these experiences allowed me to own imperative traits, guaranteeing that I can bring knowledge and be a successful component of the youth advisor committee.

How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* The most eﬃcient way to motivate teens to participate in community events and activities is by broadcasting the occasions everywhere possible. I am competent in promoting events through reposting on social media platforms, creating digital canvases, and emailing or texting peers about upcoming events. Another prominent manner is to do one-on-one in person, communicating these arranged events in daily conversations, ensuring individuals are alerted and aware. Being a student at Dublin High has put me in a position to access advertising events through clubs I am actively in, and by hanging creative banners or posters to seek the youth's attention. Canvassing in our community about teen events and youth empowerment is imperative to enable suﬃciently through outlets and places where the youth are engaged.

Recognizing how crucial these events can be for Dublin’s young body, I believe the more exposure and publicity the committee can receive on these events is necessary. By eﬀectively implementing these techniques, the teen groups will beneﬁt from these activities in addition, higher rates of teen engagement will rise in our Dublin community.

Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting?* No
If yes, what was the meeting date and outcome I h d t t l ti f th Y th Ad i C itt A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Applications must be submitted no later than
Friday, March 29, 2024, at 5:00 p.m.

For questions, please contact the Parks and Community Service's Department at (925) 556-4500 or [email protected] Attachment 1
404
I am writing this letter of recommendation for Sahara Salemi who is applying for a position on the Dublin Teen Council. I am the co-founder of MindMentor Institute, an organization that tutors young refugee students. Sahara tutors at our institute and has demonstrated admirable qualities in the short time she has been volunteering with us.

Sahara is always on top of her work and is open-minded and ready to grow. She has strong communication skills. One of the best traits Sahara has is thinking outside the box and being innovative. When she began working with the refugee students, she quickly realized the different tactics she would need to explain their lessons to them and devised creative ways to teach them. She has also demonstrated her talent in speaking multiple languages with the refugees, who have very limited English skills. She came to us with ready dedication and has honored her time commitments to us, always prioritizing the bi-weekly meetings with her students. Overall, Sahara goes above and beyond in her volunteering position at MindMentor Institute and is one of the most exemplary tutors.

I am confident that the skills that Sahara Salemi demonstrated at MindMentor Institute will be a great asset to the Dublin City Teen Council. If you need any additional information, please feel free to email me at any time.

March 29, 2024
Madiha Rahmatullah
Co-founder, MindMentor Institute
Bay Area, CA

LETTER OF RECOMMENDATION
To whom it may concern
MadihaR
Best regards,
Madiha Rahmatullah
Attachment 1
405
Youth Advisory Committee 2024 - 2025
Term Application
The Youth Advisory Committee consists of 13 members and three alternate members who serve a one-year term. This Committee is a positive and creative youth-driven forum that gives Dublin teens a way to provide input on programs and activities offered by the City. The Youth Advisory Committee Bylaws and Rules of Procedure govern the meetings and activities of the Committee.

Youth Advisory Committee Bylaws and Rules of Procedure govern the meetings and activities.

To browse past Agendas and Minutes for the Commission, visit the City's Online Records Portal.

Youth Advisory Committee Information Letter
Please acknowledge that you have downloaded and read the Youth Advisory Committee Information Letter regarding regular meeting dates, and other commitments required as a committee member. * Yes
Date Time*
3/27/2024
First Name *
Daniel
Last Name *
Santhiapillai
Address *
Street Address
Address Line 2
City
Dublin
State/Province/Region
California
Postal/Zip Code
94568
Country
United States of America
Phone (Primary) * Phone (Secondary)
E-mail - Please do not use a DUSD email *
What school will you attend in the 2024-2025 school year? * Dublin High School
What grade will you be in during the 2024-2025 school year? * 11th grade
Application Questions
Attachment 1
406
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.

Teachers, counselors, and coaches can email the letter of recommendation directly to [email protected] by March 29, 2024 by 5:00 pm.

Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* I spent most of my childhood beneﬁting from Dublin City programs that were partly run by teens, so this is an opportunity for me to give back to the community. I am also curious on how the city government works to support community well being. Additionally, I think that joining the committee will improve my leadership skills and make me a more well rounded person in general.

What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* As a varsity athlete and musician at Dublin High School, I volunteer in middle school track and ﬁeld programs, and assist in running the middle school athletic meets. I have also assisted in coaching middle school winter percussion and helped run summer music camps at Cottonwood Creek School. Additionally I frequently volunteer at the Catholic Community of Pleasanton, where I have presented to large groups, lectored during Sunday services, and volunteered for major events.

What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC can address these issues? *
Dublin teens face many diﬃculties, such as academic pressure from their peers and their guardians, which can lead to mental health issues and low self esteem. Another issue is that there is a lack of teens getting involved in the community and contributing to others. Some ways we can address these issues is by advocating for teens mental health and giving help to teens that need it. We can also create more events that teens would be more inclined to join so they can socialize with each other to build a strong community.

What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2024-2025 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities? * I am involved in the Dublin High School Cross Country and Track and Field team, and I will be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities.

How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* I would get teens involved by advertising city sponsored events by setting up tables with other mentors so that more teens would be inclined to participate in city activities. I would also start social media pages broadcasting events that are happening in Dublin in a way that caters towards teens.

Applications must be submitted no later than
Friday, March 29, 2024, at 5:00 p.m.

For questions, please contact the Parks and Community Service's Department at (925) 556-4500 or [email protected] Attachment 1
407
To Whom It May Concern:

It is my privilege to write this letter of recommendation for Daniel Santhiapillai. I have the pleasure of teaching Daniel in my Human Body Systems class. This course is a class designed for students who are in their second year of the highly competitive, Biomedical Academy at Dublin High School.

As a part of the program, students take a Biomedical science elective each year in addition to their core science course. Students have to apply to the program and it is very competitive. Therefore, all of the Biomedical students are highly motivated young people with a passion for science and hands-on learning. Daniel gained a large amount of advanced lab experience and built strong communication skills by collaborating with her peers and frequently giving class presentations. In addition, I have coached Daniel in both Cross Country and Track since his freshman year.

Throughout the time that I have known Daniel, he has demonstrated the ability to strive for the best.

Daniel is persistent, collaborative, and respectful. He is persistent in his pursuit of knowledge, and he never gives up on a challenge. Daniel is a collaborative learner and a caring individual. Daniel works well with all different types of people. Whenever Daniel saw a student in need of assistance, he would offer the student his help. He is respectful of others and creates a positive learning environment in the classroom.

Daniel demonstrates his time management skills through his success in handling rigorous academic work while participating in various extracurricular activities. At Dublin High School, Daniel is part of the Track and Field program and serves as a vaulting captain. As the captain of the jumps team, Daniel is responsible for leading his team through workouts and helps new members of the team Please consider Daniel to be a member of the Y outh Advisory Council. He is a kind and dedicated student who seeks out challenges. Please feel free to contact me with any further questions at Best regards,
Anne Ha
www.dublinusd.org/dhs
Attachment 1
408
Youth Advisory Committee 2024 - 2025
Term Application
The Youth Advisory Committee consists of 13 members and three alternate members who serve a one-year term. This Committee is a positive and creative youth-driven forum that gives Dublin teens a way to provide input on programs and activities offered by the City. The Youth Advisory Committee Bylaws and Rules of Procedure govern the meetings and activities of the Committee.

Youth Advisory Committee Bylaws and Rules of Procedure govern the meetings and activities.

To browse past Agendas and Minutes for the Commission, visit the City's Online Records Portal.

Youth Advisory Committee Information Letter
Please acknowledge that you have downloaded and read the Youth Advisory Committee Information Letter regarding regular meeting dates, and other commitments required as a committee member. * Yes
Date Time*
3/28/2024
First Name *
Mira
Last Name *
Shah
Address *
Street Address
Address Line 2
City
Dublin
State/Province/Region
CA
Postal/Zip Code
94568
Country
United States
Phone (Primary) * Phone (Secondary)
E-mail - Please do not use a DUSD email *
What school will you attend in the 2024-2025 school year? * The Quarry Lane School
What grade will you be in during the 2024-2025 school year? * Sophomore (10th Grade)
Application Questions
Attachment 1
409
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.

Mira Shah Recommendation .pdf 233.27KB
Teachers, counselors, and coaches can email the letter of recommendation directly to [email protected] by March 29, 2024 by 5:00 pm.

Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* Having been a Dublin citizen for eight years, I have a genuine connection with this city. By joining YAC, I will increase my community engagement, voice and advocate for youth concerns and requests, and develop my leadership abilities.

Community Engagement:

Joining the YAC would allow me to actively engage with the residents of Dublin and help contribute to the betterment and development of this city in the four years I serve as a committee member. Having been an active member of the community so far, attending DUSD schools from kindergarten through sixth grade, and having lived here for the majority of my life, I believe I have an adequate amount of knowledge regarding the city's strengths and weaknesses and a solid understanding of how to improve our weaker areas.

Youth Representation:

The YAC serves as an excellent platform for youth voices to be heard in local government. I believe that serving as a representative of the youth would allow me to advocate for issues most relevant to those in my age bracket, such as education and mental health.

Leadership Development:

Participation in the YAC fosters skills essential to an individual's development as a student leader and becoming a responsible member of our local community. This would encompass multiple facets of leadership, including, but not limited to, communication, teamwork, problem- solving, and decision-making. Furthermore, being part of this program would allow me to network with like-minded peers and esteemed policymakers and develop connections that would aid me in improving our city.

Joining the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee is an opportunity that I am incredibly grateful to have. As an individual passionate about making a positive change in our community, I believe I would be a perfect ﬁt as a representative.

What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* In middle school, I was the Managing Editor of my school’s editorial newspaper, iCougar. In this role, I led a team of 10 students to publish the monthly school newspaper in a timely and organized manner. This experience taught me essential leadership, interpersonal, and organizational skills at an early stage that I consider invaluable.

Last summer, I authored and published a children's picture book titled "Daisy Goes to Egypt” (ISBN:9798218089078). This was my ﬁrst attempt at entrepreneurship where I learned how to turn an idea into an actual product. The journey exposed me to multiple facets of product development - I started with the basics by taking a 6-week online course oﬀered by UC San Diego on writing and publishing a children’s book. After I wrote my initial manuscript, I ran a focus group with my then 7-year old sister and her friends to validate whether the main character and story resonated with my target readers. Based on feedback, I went through multiple iterations of the manuscript before it was ﬁnalized. I then worked with an illustrator based in South Carolina to turn the manuscript into a market-ready picture book. The book is now available across multiple online stores including Barnes & Noble and Amazon, and has sold several copies since. This experience has taught me essential entrepreneurial skills, such as how to go-to-market with an idea, sales, and marketing. In addition, this summer project taught me how to collaborate with others, take other people’s inputs and feedback into consideration, and how to eﬀectively execute on an idea. I believe that these skills would help me contribute in a meaningful way to the YAC and make a positive impact on our community.

Furthermore, this year, I began to develop an interest in economics and ﬁnance, and was excited to work on high-impact initiatives that could help my generation become ﬁnancially literate. I founded Fiscal Matters, a student-run think-tank that uses data-driven research to create awareness of the intricacies of public policy and the broader economic landscape speciﬁcally tailored to the unique context of the United States. Our team is currently working on research articles covering labor economics, banking and ﬁnance, and energy and climate economics. I am also the founder and president of the Economics Club in my school that, among other activities, advocates for the inclusion of personal ﬁnance education in California’s high schools through initiatives sponsored by the Council for Economic Education. Similar to my authorship of my children’s book, this process has taught me how to lead a team towards a common goal.

What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC can address these issues? *
Recently, teen depression rates have skyrocketed, with a 5.4% increase this year. Studies have shown that the rate has steadily increased over the past decade. In 2021, 42% of high school students reported feeling sad daily for at least two weeks, and 22% considered attempting Attachment 1
410
suicide. In 2022, 15.08% of youth (aged 12-17) reported suﬀering from at least one depressive episode. There are several reasons for this, including bullying and feeling unsure about the future.

Bullying:

Bullying has been linked to increased rates of depression and suicide for years and has a severe impact on an individual's mental health.

Although Dublin has addressed it in the past, the problems are still present and may never completely be eliminated. However, as a member of YAC, I can further advocate for a safe and equal environment for every student and create resources that resonate with teenagers.

Uncertainty:

Feeling unsure about the future and the problems that come from growing up is an issue that has aﬀected me on a personal level. With the eﬀect of COVID-19 over the past few years and the ﬂuctuations in jobs, insecurity has been at an all-time high. Through my experience, the root cause of these feelings is a lack of resources since, as soon as I had a plan for my goals, I gained a lot more clarity on my academic trajectory and became much more assertive and certain about how I should allocate my time across activities. Through YAC, I would create resources that help students track their progress, plan their goals, and feel less overwhelmed by their futures.

What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2024-2025 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities? * Currently, I am the founder and president of the Economics Club in my school, and am striving to increase access to ﬁnancial literacy and economic knowledge. Over the next few years, we will continue to expand on our impact on the community and the students in my school.

We are working to publish a monthly newsletter, teaching students skills essential to money management and personal ﬁnance, covering topics such as retirement savings and managing wealth and assets. Every month, we work to publish research papers around economic matters in our student-run think tank. February is our ﬁrst month as an established club; we are publishing three articles in March covering labor economics, banking and ﬁnance, and energy and climate economics. By the time I reach my last year of high school, I aim to help pass a ﬁnancial literacy bill for students in California, one of 15 states that do not already have it.

I am also a varsity level Public Forum debater, and a junior varsity Policy debater in my school’s debate team, which is recognized as one of the best debate programs in California. I have won numerous awards in debate tournaments nationwide: I was a ﬁnalist in Tournament of Champions Digital Speech and Debate Series 1; Winner of the Digital Speech and Debate e-Championship; Co-champion in the Heart of Texas Invitational, and an octo-ﬁnalist in the Peninsula Invitational.

Although these activities do require a signiﬁcant amount of time, I am truly dedicated to YAC and I believe that I can make a diﬀerence.

How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* As a city, Dublin has hosted many events involving our community members. As part of YAC, I will work to drive greater involvement of teens in these events through multiple initiatives:

1. Identify Teen Interests: One of the most critical factors in teen involvement is hosting an event that interests youth. To do so, I will conduct targeted surveys and run informational interviews to gather feedback from the broader community about their interests.

2. Create Teen-Centric Events: These events would be targeted mainly at teen interests. They could include art workshops, outdoor events, or even themed events.

3. Drive Awareness: I will help develop and execute campaigns aimed at increasing teen awareness and participation in local events and city activities. This could include sharing updates, short clips, and publishing testimonials from teens partaking in these events.

4. Collaborate With Schools: Through YAC, I will be given the platform to help increase the chances of partnering with local middle and high schools to promote events and activities through multiple forums, including school newsletters and announcements during assemblies.

5. Oﬀer Volunteer Opportunities: Many high schoolers actively seek out community service opportunities to demonstrate their commitment and make a positive impact on their local communities. Volunteering for these events could help drive greater engagement and participation among teens.

Attachment 1
411
Applications must be submitted no later than
Friday, March 29, 2024, at 5:00 p.m.

For questions, please contact the Parks and Community Service's Department at (925) 556-4500 or [email protected] Attachment 1
412
The Quarry Lane School

Dublin Campus:

Jr. Kindergarten-12th Grade
6363 Tassajara Rd.

Dublin, CA 94568
P (925) 829-8000 F (925) 829-4928

Pleasanton Campus East:

Toddler, Preschool and Pre-K
3750 Boulder St.

Pleasanton, CA 94566
P (925) 846-9400 F (925) 462-1066

www.quarrylane.org

Pleasanton Campus West:

Preschool and Pre-Kindergarten
4444B Black Ave.

Pleasanton, CA 94566
P (925) 462-6300 F (925) 462-1066

“Education is a lifelong commitment”®
To Whom it May Concern,

I am writing on the recommendation of Mira Shah to a position on Dublin’s Youth Advisory Committee for the 2024-2025 term. I have been Mira’s teacher this academic year for her 9th Grade World History course, advisor to the Model United Nations Club of which she’s a member, and advisor to her newly founded Finance Club.

Mira is a motivated and driven student, member of the school community, and has strong ambitions in promoting and enhancing community opportunities and learning. She is a strong leader among her peers and diligent in completing her tasks quickly and efficiently. Mira also exhibits strong social skills that allow her to communicate and interact easily across social groups, speak knowledgably and with confidence in many academic fields, and has the charisma to gather people around her into a stronger community.

Mira is a leader her own Finance Club, as the founder and president she takes on a role of teacher, guide, and planner in the scheduling of meetings and assisting in club activities and assignments. She has proven to be organized, quick to create meaningful discussion, and a strong encourager and guide when questions and concerns are posed by members. As a freshman participating in Model United Nations Conferences, she has shown strong motivation in building communication skills and diplomatic approaches to sharing, collaborating, and debating events and sensitive issues towards the goal of beneficial and acceptable resolutions.

In academics she has demonstrated a great sense of cooperation and leadership in our World History course. She takes directive roles in any group assignment, shares her study guides with classmates, and easily explains complex information that others missed while out sick. She also regularly joins others in quizzing and correcting each other’s information in preparation for an exam. She has also excelled in her Speech and Debate course and has proven an exceptional participant of the Speech and Debate team in several tournaments throughout the year.

With the skills she has attained, and those that she continues to cultivate in leadership, diplomacy, and communication, I am confident Mira Shah will make a valuable addition to the Youth Advisory Committee and in supporting its efforts in building up a stronger community.

If you have any further questions, please feel free to reach out to me at s and thank you for your time and attention to Mira’s application.

Sincerely,
Stacey Culy
The Quarry Lane School

Attachment 1
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The Quarry Lane School

Jr. Kindergarten-12th Grade
6363 Tassajara Rd.

Dublin, CA 94568
P (925) 829-8000 F (925) 829-4928

www.quarrylane.org
“Education is a lifelong commitment”®
March 28, 2024
Dear Admissions Committee,

I have had the opportunity to teach Mira Shah in Biology with Applications, and it is a pleasure for me to recommend her to your program. Mira is a hard worker with a combination of good academic skills, and dedication to her community that will allow her to succeed in your program.

As a student Mira is determined to master course content, diligently organizes her notes/thoughts, and actively engage in discussions. Her strong work ethic, engagement with the material, and dedication towards learning have led her to toward success in the course. Mira often takes a leadership role during labs, helping her partners stay organized, engaged, and she also helps them learn and be able to succeed on their own. Her enthusiasm for science, determination and approach to learning challenging content will help her succeed in a other work environments.

Mira’s true passion is in Business. She is very forward thinking and innovating, which sounds like a good fit for Youth Advisory Committee position. Mira is good at developing solutions, but what impresses me most is her drive to carry out her ideas and make them a reality.

Therefore, I strongly recommend that Mira Shah to be a selected for your program. She is motivated, dedicated and goal oriented. These qualities combined with the opportunity to be a part of your program will provide her with an opportunity to help others and an experience that can help her continue to be successful and achieve things she is passionate about.

Regards,

Daniel Johnson
Anatomy and Physiology
Biology Instructor
The Quarry Lane School

Attachment 1
414
Youth Advisory Committee 2024 - 2025
Term Application
The Youth Advisory Committee consists of 13 members and three alternate members who serve a one-year term. This Committee is a positive and creative youth-driven forum that gives Dublin teens a way to provide input on programs and activities offered by the City. The Youth Advisory Committee Bylaws and Rules of Procedure govern the meetings and activities of the Committee.

Youth Advisory Committee Bylaws and Rules of Procedure govern the meetings and activities.

To browse past Agendas and Minutes for the Commission, visit the City's Online Records Portal.

Youth Advisory Committee Information Letter
Please acknowledge that you have downloaded and read the Youth Advisory Committee Information Letter regarding regular meeting dates, and other commitments required as a committee member. * Yes
Date Time*
3/29/2024
First Name *
Aryav
Last Name *
Shastri
Address *
Street Address
Address Line 2
City
Dublin
State/Province/Region
California
Postal/Zip Code
94568
Country
United States of America
Phone (Primary) * Phone (Secondary)
E-mail - Please do not use a DUSD email *
What school will you attend in the 2024-2025 school year? * Dublin High School
What grade will you be in during the 2024-2025 school year? * 10th
Application Questions
Attachment 1
415
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.

Aryav Letter of Recommendation.pdf 88.24KB
Teachers, counselors, and coaches can email the letter of recommendation directly to [email protected] by March 29, 2024 by 5:00 pm.

Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* I highly desire a position on the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee because I am an enthusiastic, committed, and responsible young high schooler with a passion for our city and Dublin Pride. I’ve lived in this city for as long as I can remember, and I have opinions, thoughts, ideas, and concerns as an engaged citizen. I seek a committee like this one where I can freely voice these considerations about our city, as I believe that youth representation is essential in making big decisions that equally aﬀect us all. I would like to be able to spread positivity throughout our city, at a higher level, helping and aiding in every single city-held event, spreading spirit and awareness to our fellow peers, and being able to spread new ideas in a committee with other youthful advocates. I take pride in living in Dublin, and I would love to be a part of any process that helps the city thrive, especially for its youth.

What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* I possess strong communication, collaboration, and problem-solving, which would all be beneﬁcial as a member of the YAC. I have extremely strong verbal and written communication skills, which I have obtained from several years of public speaking and 3 years of participating in speech and debate. I am conﬁdent in my ability to get my message across in a clear and comprehensible manner, as well as to speak to new people for the ﬁrst time whilst still being conﬁdent. I thrive in collaborative and teamwork scenarios, and enjoy working with new people. I believe working with diverse groups of individuals foresees the best results as everyone thinks uniquely, leading to diﬀerent points of view, lived experience, and ideas coming together to represent the many ways in which we are multifaceted as a community. I am a creative and analytical thinker, who can solve problems using logic quickly. Overall, with my communication skills alongside my collaborative mindset and intraoperative thought process, I believe I would be a great candidate for the YAC.

What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC can address these issues? *
Some issues I believe that teens in Dublin are currently dealing with are falling victim to peer pressure and drug usage. My experience as a student at Dublin High has given me the insight of understanding my peers and what is important to them. I’ve found that most students share the common trait of caring very much about their reputation and how everyone perceives them, to a potentially harmful degree. This leads to students partaking in activities that they aren't fully comfortable with or don't fully agree with, just to “look better” to their friends or classmates. Youth in our city also have high usage of diﬀerent drugs and addictive substances, a trend that has been on the rise within youth in America. In almost every bathroom at our school, students are using e-cigarettes in large groups, making it hard to discern whether this comes as a result of peer pressure or if there are other factors in play.. I believe that the YAC can address these issues by leading more events or educational lessons for the youth about peer pressure and drug usage, and how to avoid it. I believe these events would be exponentially more impactful if they were more peer-led, and peer-oriented, connecting the youth in our city as a community of its own. Helping the youth of our city navigate peer pressure, especially in relation to mind-altering drugs and harmful substances, is an amazing skill that is a necessity for everyone in life, and can be taught with the help of the YAC. Spreading more awareness and knowledge about drugs and common e- cigarettes used by students is another way to reduce vapes in school bathrooms. I've tried to tackle the drug issue by taking part in Dublin's PSA challenge focusing on fentanyl awareness. I did well enough to make it into the top 10 for the audio section.

What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2024-2025 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities? * In the 2024-2025 school year, I will be participating in Track and Field for Dublin High. However, I will still be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities.

How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* To get teens involved in the community, I would start by spreading knowledge and awareness of said events and activities. A lot of the time, most of our peers are unaware of events held in our city and would be more inclined to go if they knew about it. Reposting about the events on social media, spreading the word at school, and pushing friends to attend events are all ways I would get other teens involved. I’ve found that club events at Dublin High get a lot of traction if students involved in the club post about any events or fundraisers, so I would like to encourage the same within the YAC to see similar turnout and results.

Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting?* Attachment 1
416
No
A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Applications must be submitted no later than
Friday, March 29, 2024, at 5:00 p.m.

For questions, please contact the Parks and Community Service's Department at (925) 556-4500 or [email protected] Attachment 1
417
March 26, 2024
To Whom It May Concern:

It is with my greatest pleasure that I am writing in recommendation of Aryav Shastri as a potential candidate for the Dublin Y outh Advisory Committee. I have the honor of being Aryav’s English teacher in his Advanced English 9 class (2023-2024), and I am pleased to inform you that he would be a fantastic addition to your youth committee due to his own unique qualities.

What stands out to me about Aryav is his attentiveness, maturity and respect for others.

He arrives to class well prepared and ready to analyze the topics we discuss in class. He possesses a dedicated, yet calm demeanor which enables him to work in a variety of situations with ease. Due to his steadfast work ethic and gentle disposition, he works very well with other students, makes thoughtful suggestions, and facilitates the direction of his group activities effectively. He also is very caring and uses his voice to vouch for possible improvements to humanity, as demonstrated by his most recent work in our “Pinnacle Project,” where he chose to write a convincing, humorous essay detailing the importance of friendship in our society. He used fun analogies and personal experiences to convey his message that friendship allows people to “cultivate empathy, trust and loyalty.” His words demonstrate just how observant he is about the qualities that contribute to a happy, kind and productive society, which will undoubtedly contribute to a positive environment within your committee.

Additionally, Aryav wrote another convincing piece requesting for an enhancement to the classroom setting, which reflected his ability to craft claims based on interesting evidence culled www.dublinusd.org/dhs
Attachment 1
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from his research. He uses creative and humorous language which lends to an effective argument. Based on the way he constructed that writing piece, I observe that Aryav has a keen eye for detail and would contribute to an enthusiastic, yet productive team on the advisory board.

Ultimately, Aryav would make an excellent addition to the Dublin Y outh Committee. He is bright, motivated, and very thoughtful. He comes up with strong ideas and articulates them in ways that are appealing to his peers and community and appropriate to the occasion. He has also already been an active participant in terms of public speaking and spreading awareness with the purpose of making positive change, as demonstrated by his recent participation in the PSA Challenge and the Dublin Pride Essay for this year. Please do not hesitate to accept him! Sincerely,
Carmen Chan
Dublin High School English Teacher
www.dublinusd.org/dhs
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Youth Advisory Committee 2024 - 2025
Term Application
The Youth Advisory Committee consists of 13 members and three alternate members who serve a one-year term. This Committee is a positive and creative youth-driven forum that gives Dublin teens a way to provide input on programs and activities offered by the City. The Youth Advisory Committee Bylaws and Rules of Procedure govern the meetings and activities of the Committee.

Youth Advisory Committee Bylaws and Rules of Procedure govern the meetings and activities.

To browse past Agendas and Minutes for the Commission, visit the City's Online Records Portal.

Youth Advisory Committee Information Letter
Please acknowledge that you have downloaded and read the Youth Advisory Committee Information Letter regarding regular meeting dates, and other commitments required as a committee member. * Yes
Date Time*
3/28/2024
First Name *
Iris
Last Name *
Shen
Address *
Street Address
Address Line 2
City
Dublin
State/Province/Region
California
Postal/Zip Code
94568
Country
United States
Phone (Primary) * Phone (Secondary)
E-mail - Please do not use a DUSD email *
What school will you attend in the 2024-2025 school year? * Dublin High School
What grade will you be in during the 2024-2025 school year? * 12 Application Questions
Attachment 1
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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.

IrisShenRecommendation.pdf 391.43KB
Teachers, counselors, and coaches can email the letter of recommendation directly to [email protected] by March 29, 2024 by 5:00 pm.

Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* Since I moved to Dublin when I was ﬁve years old, I have absolutely loved this city.

I remember, distinctly, walking in the St. Patrick's Day Parade in elementary school, standing proud with the rest of my third-grade class, then spending the rest of the day walking around the Dublin Library. Marching with the Fallon colorguard in sixth grade. I remember, only last year, waking up early to volunteer to set up the route for the same parade.

I remember summers swimming at the Wave and summers spent at the Shannon Community Center dancing, acting, and doing whatever I could to meet new people.

I remember jumping, ecstatic, when my artwork was selected to be displayed on one of Dublin's utility boxes.

I am here now, asking the city that shaped me if I can help shape its future.

Since I moved to Dublin twelve years ago, I have always wanted to be able to make a real change in my community. While I love this city to death, it also has its fair share of issues, especially within the youth—issues that I believe I have the creativity and the dedication to start solving. I would love more than anything to be able to represent my community and raise awareness for and help plan events in Dublin.

Beyond just that, I've always been interested in pursuing a career in civics and politics, and I believe that serving on the YAC will help me get a hands-on grasp of how government works from the inside out. Being a member of Dublin's YAC will not only provide me with that experience, I would be able to do it alongside my peers. It would not only boost my ability to think critically and identify community issues, but would allow me to address those issues through innovative approaches alongside students with distinctive missions and skills.

More than anything, I want to express my gratitude to the City of Dublin for what it has helped me become and what it will continue shaping me to be. I want to serve on the YAC to do just that—thank the City of Dublin, its community, and help shape it to be better the same way it has done to me.

What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* I believe that I have strong leadership skills, and have been able to use them to complete projects in the past. For example, in previous years I have been a lead intern at the Quest Science Center in Livermore, where I have been able to plan and execute over ten science-related activities for youth at monthly science fairs. Through Quest, I have been able to learn facilitation and taught thousands of community members in the Tri-Valley, and have especially honed in on my ability to lead intergenerational groups. The community at Quest spans across generations—there are teen interns like myself, but also many senior volunteers, and of course children that we teach. Interacting across more than three diﬀerent generations has allowed me to improve my leadership skills, especially when adapting to diﬀerent audiences and situations. This will allow me to eﬀectively communicate with any partner organizations or adult staﬀ within the YAC while maintaining an open mind.

Additionally, I am a strong, articulate writer and speaker, and I do both with immense creativity. I have been involved with visual and performing arts since I was young, and from those activities, I can safely say that I've been carefully nurturing my skills in creativity. I've been able to get involved in Dublin with those skills, doing public art projects for the city such as the Utility Box Art Program and the Little Library Project. Thus, not only will I be able to clearly articulate my ideas to the rest of the YAC, but I will also be able to execute any plans that we may make creatively. Furthermore, when advertising events, I will be able to help design visually appealing ﬂyers and posts that can grab the viewer's attention.

What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC can address these issues? *
One of the biggest issues gripping the nation’s youth is youth mental health and rising rates of depression and anxiety—and Dublin is no diﬀerent. Much of this issue starts when children are very young: many people I know, including myself, feel pressured to do well in school by the community around us and end up feeling ashamed when we do not perform as well as we are expected to. However, since I was in elementary school, I realized that many of my friends who feel this way do not feel comfortable sharing their feelings and thoughts with others, especially adults. There are many, many reasons for mental health concerns within Dublin youth, with some of the ones I’ve heard Attachment 1
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being cultural divides, pressure, shame, and personal situations. Perhaps it is the hypercompetitive nature of our schools. Maybe it’s a lack of social opportunity, or simply the lack of the opportunity to share.

As it relates to mental health, I am aware that the YAC currently runs a yearly Youth Mental Health Forum. I think it's great for promoting the destigmatization of mental health for youth in Dublin and showing those who are struggling that they are not alone, providing a safe space for sharing has done so much for students like myself. As far as I have been able to research, however, there are no options for anonymous sharing from students who may feel uncomfortable speaking openly about their struggles with mental health. Additionally, since it is an annual, in-person event, the Youth Mental Health Forum can only handle so many stories and share them with a ﬁxed amount of community members. I believe that the Youth Mental Health Forum can be extended to an online forum, either on social media platforms like Instagram or on Dublin’s website, with an anonymous form for students who feel comfortable sharing their stories. These can then be shared in post or podcast style, allowing the impact of the Youth Mental Health Forum to expand throughout the year and reach more audience members who might need support.

I also ﬁnd that opportunities to participate in sports, while abundant in Dublin, can be inaccessible for both physically and intellectually disabled youth. While Dublin schools host the Special Olympics for disabled youth, there are not many more opportunities for them to participate in activities like them, as far as I know. I think that, in addition to a lack of opportunity, many able-bodied and neurotypical youth are taught to look down upon their disabled peers, causing them to be discouraged from participating in team activities and often shunned from sports teams. As for what the YAC can do, I believe integration must start with early education—the YAC may be able to host short one- day or weeklong sports programs for students, especially younger students. These programs will largely be introductory and will serve as a bridge between disabled and able-bodied youth, encouraging early cooperation to prevent discriminatory beliefs down the road. Similar programs can also be applied to teenage youth, and the YAC may be able to work with high school organizations like Best Buddies to encourage more cooperation in sports and other activities.

Additionally, the City of Dublin and Alameda County have relatively low voter turnouts. Though not an immediate issue for youth, it will certainly be an issue for our future—it will be our youth that eventually shapes Dublin’s future. Recently, while it seems that interest in civics has increased slightly within the youth population, a signiﬁcant proportion of those graduating from Dublin schools will still be unregistered to vote. For this reason, I believe the YAC can promote civic education starting from a young age—I’m currently running a project intended for this purpose with a team of eight other high school students, educating middle and elementary students on civics and encouraging them to become engaged with their communities early on by giving public comments at City Council meetings (be on the lookout for some students at the April 16 meeting)! These students have developed these public comments over four lessons on topics they believe are issues in Dublin's community. If the YAC were to pick up a similar project on a larger scale, I believe it would dramatically increase youth interest in their communities and help them discover and express their passions from a young age.

What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2024-2025 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities? * I am currently running a project to help extend civic education to elementary and middle schoolers and encourage engagement in the community, and I’m hoping that the same project will be carried on to the 2024-2025 school year. My project runs from December to April and all meetings with the students are held on Saturday mornings.

Additionally, I am on my school’s Science Olympiad team, which requires a fair amount of studying outside of school hours. However, most of it is self-scheduled and will not interfere with YAC meetings or events. The competition season usually runs from December to March, and we tend to have one or two competitions a month within that time frame. All competitions are on weekends and should not interfere with YAC meetings or events provided that they will be scheduled at similar times that they have been in the past (i.e. if the 2024 Youth Mental Health Forum is scheduled on a weekday like it has been in previous years).

I should have no trouble making YAC meetings on the second Wednesday of each month. In terms of YAC events, I have been able to attend the Beneﬁt Concert for the past two years, which I am planning on seeing again this year. I anticipate being able to attend most or all of the YAC events in the following year if they are planned in a similar time frame to previous years.

As of now, I estimate that I will be able to spend up to ten hours each week on YAC activities if needed. If selected, I am conﬁdent that I will be able to devote the necessary time to help plan, execute, and attend YAC events with the utmost degree of care.

How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* Having many years of experience in visual and performing art, I ﬁnd myself to be a very creative person—with advertising, it’s no diﬀerent.

While there are only so many ways that advertising can be done, whether that be through ﬂyers or social media, there are so many things that we can do with those options.

Firstly, with my background in visual arts, I will be able to design visually appealing and relevant posters, ﬂyers, and posts to help advertise events like the Youth Mental Health Forum, and distribute them throughout busy community hubs like schools throughout Dublin and Dublin Library. These posters will outline what events are, so community members will be able to better understand what each event is intended to do, as well as advertise ways that people can get involved, either directly or indirectly. For example, ﬂyers for the Beneﬁt Concert will not only Attachment 1
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advertise the date and time, but will include encouragement and resources to sign up to perform.

The same can be done with social media posts, especially through Instagram. A YAC Instagram can utilize features like story posts, reels, and general posts to reach a wide audience of Dublin's youth, which is incredibly present on social media. The YAC itself can ﬁlm short segments of each of its events, showcasing previous successful events as well as the preparation for each event. This would allow the viewers to feel more connected to upcoming YAC events—if they're able to see the behind-the-scenes or view interviews with YAC members, for example, Dublin's youth might feel more attracted to the idea of actually attending those events.

Finally, more advertising can be done through Dublin's schools. Because that is where Dublin's youth spends the majority of their time, having YAC or City Council members speak about upcoming events during free periods at various schools would encourage students to attend and generally raise awareness that those events are happening. For younger students, especially, seeing authority ﬁgures speak about upcoming events in Dublin will encourage them to speak about those events to their parents, making it more likely that those families will attend.

Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting?* No
If yes, what was the meeting date and outcome M h 19 2024 it 3 1 b t i l i i l d d th A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Applications must be submitted no later than
Friday, March 29, 2024, at 5:00 p.m.

For questions, please contact the Parks and Community Service's Department at (925) 556-4500 or [email protected] Attachment 1
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8151 VILLAGE PARKWAY, DUBLIN, CA 94568 - 925.833.3300 - FAX 925.833.3344 DHS.DUBLINUSD.ORG
To Whom It May Concern:

DUBLIN HIGH SCH0OL
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 stood 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.

As a student Iris approached all the units with an open-mind and a high level of critical analysis.

Iris was absolutely one of my top students last year. She never needed to raise her voice or dominate conversations. She used her quiet confidence and intelligence to excel. Iris is not only self driven in her academics, she is also a talented writer. Her writing showcased not only her deep understanding of the text but a clear voice that is so hard to teach students. Iris has it. Her writing flows seamlessly on the page which makes it a pleasure to read.

Sara Hollison/
With her combination of intellectual skills, motivation and social maturity, she will flourish as a leader.

I give Iris my wholehearted recommendation.

March 29, 2024
Teacher Ilibrariah
Dublin 1igh School

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Youth Advisory Committee 2024 - 2025
Term Application
The Youth Advisory Committee consists of 13 members and three alternate members who serve a one-year term. This Committee is a positive and creative youth-driven forum that gives Dublin teens a way to provide input on programs and activities offered by the City. The Youth Advisory Committee Bylaws and Rules of Procedure govern the meetings and activities of the Committee.

Youth Advisory Committee Bylaws and Rules of Procedure govern the meetings and activities.

To browse past Agendas and Minutes for the Commission, visit the City's Online Records Portal.

Youth Advisory Committee Information Letter
Please acknowledge that you have downloaded and read the Youth Advisory Committee Information Letter regarding regular meeting dates, and other commitments required as a committee member. * Yes
Date Time*
3/28/2024
First Name *
Homa
Last Name *
Shirzad
Address *
Street Address
Address Line 2
City
Dublin
State/Province/Region
CA
Postal/Zip Code
94568
Country
United States
Phone (Primary) * Phone (Secondary)
E-mail - Please do not use a DUSD email *
What school will you attend in the 2024-2025 school year? * Dublin High School
What grade will you be in during the 2024-2025 school year? * 11th
Application Questions
Attachment 1
425
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.

HS Rec Letter.pdf 214.38KB
Teachers, counselors, and coaches can email the letter of recommendation directly to [email protected] by March 29, 2024 by 5:00 pm.

Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* Becoming a member of the YAC means contributing to the voice and productivity of the Youth of Dublin as a whole. I want the opportunity to present my voice, creativity, and determination to express my gratitude whilst contributing ideas that overall better our community and uplift the community as a whole. With this, I am sure that I can be of assistance to the YAC and use it as an opportunity to connect with the youth and understand our environment collectively. Becoming a member of the YAC would not only be a commitment that I need to make to myself, but also the city and people I will soon aim to please! What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* I am certain that I possess the necessary skills of leadership, cooperation, and capability. I can conﬁdently identify these traits within myself through my strong work ethic, personality, and consistent actions toward others. I demonstrate these qualities through the eﬃciency in my school work, through the social skills that I enable when placed in a social setting, through the management of my time and excellency of my work. With these skills, I know that I will be an invaluable asset to YAC and contribute my abilities to the fullest extent whenever my presence is required within the organization.

What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC can address these issues? *
An issue I believe teens are dealing with today is the social dilemma of technology and its negative impact over our youth. For the youth, technology has been a intellectual and social blockade in the development in the youth's years. With social media, children are reduced to socially fabricated personas that revolve around spending their time and abilities on activities such as online and temporary situations.

Addressing this situation head on and hosting events and meetings for teens in the community to come together and enjoy, allows for the community to grow and inﬂuence others and lifts it up immensely.

What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2024-2025 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities? * -Secretary of Middle Eastern Student Associaton at school -Member of DHS 2 Birds Society (Raises money for schools in Africa) -Member of the American Red Cross
-Depop Account run to raise money
How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* I would get teens more involved with the community by hosting and contributing to the development of further meetings and events that would help stir up emotion and feeling within the youth community and have their ideas and activities run free and be enjoyed! I also would promote these events through the clubs I am involved in and the school that I attend, knowing majority of the population there, I believe I could round up groups of people that would be interested in meetings that hit the interests well and introduces them to new perspectives and opportunities! As well as reaching to diﬀerent age group audiences that would help contribute to the overall city events that would reach diﬀerent audiences and encourage the audience to increase! Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting?* No
If yes, what was the meeting date and outcome
of the item(s) you were interested in?
A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Attachment 1
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Applications must be submitted no later than
Friday, March 29, 2024, at 5:00 p.m.

For questions, please contact the Parks and Community Service's Department at (925) 556-4500 or [email protected] Attachment 1
427

www.dublinusd.org/dhs

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

March 28, 2024

To whomever it may concern,

It is my great pleasure to recommend Bi Bi Jan Shirzad for a position on the Dublin Youth Committee. I have known Bi Bi Jan for a year and is delighted to be her Algebra 2 teacher at Dublin High School. During this time, I've watched Bi Bi Jan grow into an outstanding individual who exceled in both her academic and personal pursuits.

Bi Bi Jan's personal strengths are as impressive as her intellectual accomplishments. She is an active, outgoing presence in class with a great sense of humor. Bi Bi Jan is the perfect person to get a group project rolling, but she also knows how to sit back and let others take the lead. Bi Bi Jan makes sure to always be attentive and productive throughout lessons by asking questions during lectures. All of her assignments are submitted punctually and reflected comprehensive and dedicated work. Her cheerful nature and openness to feedback means she is always learning and growing as a learner, an impressive strength that will continue to serve her well in the future.

Bi Bi Jan has my highest recommendation for a position on the Dublin Youth Committee. She has demonstrated excellence in all that she puts her mind to, whether it was persevering through difficult Algebra 2 problems or being the secretary of the DHS MENA club. Bi Bi Jan’s endless curiosity combined with her willingness to take risks, leads me to believe there will be no limit to her growth and achievements in college and beyond. Please feel free to contact me with any further questions at

Sincerely,

Ms. Erica Lee
Math Teacher
Dublin High School
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Youth Advisory Committee 2024 - 2025
Term Application
The Youth Advisory Committee consists of 13 members and three alternate members who serve a one-year term. This Committee is a positive and creative youth-driven forum that gives Dublin teens a way to provide input on programs and activities offered by the City. The Youth Advisory Committee Bylaws and Rules of Procedure govern the meetings and activities of the Committee.

Youth Advisory Committee Bylaws and Rules of Procedure govern the meetings and activities.

To browse past Agendas and Minutes for the Commission, visit the City's Online Records Portal.

Youth Advisory Committee Information Letter
Please acknowledge that you have downloaded and read the Youth Advisory Committee Information Letter regarding regular meeting dates, and other commitments required as a committee member. * Yes
Date Time*
3/20/2024
First Name *
Ronak
Last Name *
Shrawagi
Address *
Street Address
Address Line 2
City
Dublin
State/Province/Region
CA
Postal/Zip Code
94568
Country
United States
Phone (Primary) * Phone (Secondary)
E-mail - Please do not use a DUSD email *
What school will you attend in the 2024-2025 school year? * Dougherty Valley High School
What grade will you be in during the 2024-2025 school year? * 11 Application Questions
Attachment 1
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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.

AURUM-Ronak - March 2024.doc.pdf 222.55KB
Earl Anthony's Dublin Bowl Recommendation Letter.docx.pdf 42.82KB Ronak Shrawagi 3-15-24.docx 339.47KB
Teachers, counselors, and coaches can email the letter of recommendation directly to [email protected] by March 29, 2024 by 5:00 pm.

Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* I am deeply passionate about advocacy and I believe that being a part of the Youth Advisory Committee would be an excellent opportunity for me to make a positive impact in my community. For a long time, I have always been dedicated to speaking up for students' education and health, both mentally and physically. As a member of the Youth Advisory Committee, I would be able to give back to my community by contributing to the decision-making process that impacts the welfare of teens in Dublin. I strongly believe that teenagers in our community deserve the chance to voice their opinions, especially when it comes to our education and the activities that are available to them, because I know that as students, we have very little say in our high school education. By joining the Youth Advisory Committee, I hope to play a signiﬁcant role in shaping the future of my class and future classes and creating a better society for generations to come.

What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* I would be a strong candidate for the Youth Advisory Board because of my experience in this ﬁeld. I am a part of the CourAGE Youth Health Coalition, which is a Contra Costa County-wide coalition that specializes in youth advocacy and peer-educating teenagers on the dangers of Tobacco, Marijuana, Alcohol, and Prescription pills. My time at CourAGE (See our Advocacy, Generation, Education) has allowed me to participate in several events that display youth advisory. Along with CourAGE, I have experience in leadership through numerous part-time jobs, such as single-handedly leading and hosting events and parties, which make me distinctive in leadership and community service. I am also a part of the Dublin community and am aware of the issues in our community, as I spent three years at Fallon Middle School and one year at Dublin High before transferring.

What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC can address these issues? *
Teens in Dublin deal with many issues throughout middle and high school, such as social issues, mental health, college stress, tobacco and marijuana use, and many more. The YAC can help teenagers address social issues by holding team building and icebreaker events, especially for new students in Dublin. Mental health issues are also crucial, as I know how much stress school can cause, and I feel like the YAC could help more by contributing to stress-relieving activities like Llama Days in Dublin High. Drug and Alcohol use is also a big problem throughout Dublin, as I have experienced ﬁrsthand how teens can get addicted to tobacco and marijuana. I feel like peer education is a big part of the solution to that, and I believe the YAC can contribute to peer education on a city-wide level.

What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2024-2025 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities? * I am currently involved with some organizations like CourAGE and plan to ﬁnd a part-time job. However, the YAC meetings align with my schedule, and I would make my schedule available for YAC events. I am mostly involved with school which is why I wanted to apply.

How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* I would get teenagers involved in the community and events by promoting events on social media and encouraging friends to join these events and get their friends involved. I also believe that students, in general, would be more willing to get involved in the oﬀering of beneﬁcial incentives, for example, volunteer hours. Lastly, I believe that organizing social events with volunteer activities would be extremely valuable to getting teens involved in the community.

Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting?* No
If yes, what was the meeting date and outcome
Attachment 1
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A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Applications must be submitted no later than
Friday, March 29, 2024, at 5:00 p.m.

For questions, please contact the Parks and Community Service's Department at (925) 556-4500 or [email protected] Attachment 1
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Aurum Equity Partners
Suite 140, 7041 Koll Center Pkwy
Pleasanton, CA 94566 USA

To whomsoever it may concern.

Dear Sir/Madam,

I am writing to highly recommend Ronak for City of Dublin, Youth Advisory Committee and Student Representative for Parks and Communities. As someone who has closely observed Ronak's growth and development, I can attest to his exceptional leadership qualities and unwavering commitment to making a positive impact in both his personal and professional endeavors.

Despite his tender age of 16, Ronak possesses a remarkable entrepreneurial mindset that sets him apart from his peers. He has gained valuable hands-on experience by working at various fast-food establishments such as Coldstone Creamery, Cinnabon, Menchies Yogurt, and Earl Anthony’s Bowling, where he demonstrated his ability to multitask, problem-solve, and thrive in dynamic environments.

In addition to his work experiences, Ronak has actively led numerous community initiatives aimed at making a difference in the lives of others. He has organized and participated in toy drives for underprivileged children and hygiene drive for people in need. Recently, he even started a nonprofit called "Hopeful Horizons Foundation" to support those affected by domestic abuse.

Furthermore, Ronak has shown exemplary leadership in advocating for public health awareness, particularly in his involvement with Teens Tackle Tobacco. He has participated in various forums and presentations, effectively educating his peers and community members on the harmful effects of tobacco, fentanyl, and alcohol use.

Ronak's natural ability to lead, innovate, and inspire others is truly commendable. His genuine compassion, coupled with his drive for excellence, makes him an invaluable asset to any team or organization. I am confident that Ronak will continue to excel and make significant contributions to the City of Dublin.

Please do not hesitate to reach out to me if you require any further information regarding Ronak's qualifications and experiences.

Sincerely,

Venkat Bussa
CEO & Chairman
Aurum Equity Partners

Attachment 1
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Mike Richards
Manager, Earl Anthony’s Dublin Bowl
March 19th, 2024
City of Dublin
T o whomsoever it may concern.

Dear Sir/Madam,
I am pleased to offer my recommendation for Ronak Shrawagi for the Youth Advisory Committee, City of Dublin . Ronak has demonstrated exceptional maturity, responsibility, and dedication during his time working at Earl Anthony's Dublin Bowl as a party host.

During the 8 months that Ronak worked with us, he consistently proved himself to be one of our best and most proactive employees. As a party host, Ronak demonstrated strong organizational skills by effectively coordinating parties, ensuring that every detail was meticulously planned and executed to perfection.

One of Ronak's standout qualities is his exceptional customer service. He went above and beyond to ensure that our customers had an awesome experience. From greeting guests with a warm smile to assisting them with their games and needs throughout the party, Ronak consistently provided exemplary service, earning praise and appreciation from both customers and colleagues alike.

Furthermore, Ronak exhibited a remarkable level of initiative and resourcefulness in his role. Whether it was restocking supplies, organizing equipment, or troubleshooting technical issues, Ronak approached every task with a positive attitude and a willingness to go the extra mile.

Overall, Ronak's dedication, professionalism, and outstanding work ethic make him an invaluable asset to any team or organization. I have no doubt that he will continue to excel and make significant contributions wherever his journey takes him. It is with great confidence and enthusiasm that I recommend Ronak for any future endeavors.

Please feel free to contact me if you require any further information or clarification regarding Ronak's qualifications and performance.

Sincerely,
Mike Richards
Attachment 1
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March 15, 2024

To Whom It May Concern,
My name is Derrick Kirk, Youth Development Specialist with the Contra Costa County Office of Education TUPE Program. As an adult ally who oversees and supports the county youth health coalition (CourAGE - See Our Advocacy, Generation, and Education), I have witnessed the group tackle many health-related issues affecting our local communities. This letter of recommendation is to endorse the remarkable young candidate, Ronak Shrawagi. Ronak’s efforts have and continue to positively impact youth in Contra Costa County.

Ronak came to us as a recommendation from Alameda upon moving into our county. During his interview, he displayed a strong passion for change to which he went on to become a wonderful addition to the team. As of today, Ronak’s impact has surpassed local efforts, expanding county-wide and beyond. He helped create and facilitate a presentation on the dangers of cannabis use among youth. He recently presented this presentation at UC Berkeley to students from several counties. Ronak also facilitated an adult facing webinar on fentanyl awareness offering youth perspective on the issue currently facing young people.

Ronak’s passion for helping his peers and the generations that follow is evident from the hard work he applies. His desire to improve his community stretches beyond awareness, he makes positive change for others a priority. Ronak is very dependable and a proven leader within the coalition. His suggestions are always readily received. He collaborates well within a team environment as well. He is an excellent public speaker and can captivate any audience. He tends to work above what is required, volunteering to take on additional responsibilities. Having Ronak on our team has strengthened CourAGE’s efforts to make a difference.

I strongly endorse Ronak Shrawagi for all his future endeavors. His strengths are extremely valuable to any organization or institution he is attached to. With his many great qualities, he is guaranteed to be successful in anything he undertakes. Ronak is a real inspiration to others and what he has accomplished will have a lasting effect on Contra Costa County. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions regarding his experience as a youth coalition member.

Sincerely,

Derrick Kirk, Youth Development Specialist
Contra Costa County Office of Education

Attachment 1
434
Youth Advisory Committee 2024 - 2025
Term Application
The Youth Advisory Committee consists of 13 members and three alternate members who serve a one-year term. This Committee is a positive and creative youth-driven forum that gives Dublin teens a way to provide input on programs and activities offered by the City. The Youth Advisory Committee Bylaws and Rules of Procedure govern the meetings and activities of the Committee.

Youth Advisory Committee Bylaws and Rules of Procedure govern the meetings and activities.

To browse past Agendas and Minutes for the Commission, visit the City's Online Records Portal.

DUBLIN, CA
State/Province/Region
CA
Postal/Zip Code
94568
Country
United States
Phone (Primary) * Phone (Secondary)
E-mail - Please do not use a DUSD email *
What school will you attend in the 2024-2025 school year? * Cottonwood Creek K-8
What grade will you be in during the 2024-2025 school year? * 8th grade
Application Questions
Attachment 1
435
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.

Teachers, counselors, and coaches can email the letter of recommendation directly to [email protected] by March 29, 2024 by 5:00 pm.

Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* As I turn thirteen soon, I ﬁnd myself yearning to step beyond the familiar conﬁnes of my everyday life and explore new horizons. The prospect of joining YAC presents itself as an opportunity to break free from my cocoon and discover the world beyond. While I may appear shy on the surface, deep down, I am ﬁlled with a desire to make a diﬀerence. Joining YAC would not only allow me to broaden my horizons but also empower me to lend my voice to matters that aﬀect our community. Through this experience, I hope to ﬁnd my voice and contribute in meaningful ways to the betterment of our city.

What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* I possess several qualities that I believe would make me a strong candidate. I possess strong empathy, active listening skills, creativity, a commitment to learning, and eﬀective collaboration abilities, which collectively make me a valuable candidate for the Youth Advisory Committee.

What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC can address these issues? *
I feel that teens spend a lot more time on their devices, come under peer pressure and get distracted and depressed . I feel YAC can advocate for stress-relief workshops, promote digital literacy, and expand the current scope of recreational programs oﬀered by the city.

What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2024-2025 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities? * Yes, I can devote time. I will be involved in swimming classes, Extra Math classes twice a week and ongoing leadership programs at my school throughout the year
How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* To get other teens into community stuﬀ and City events, we could plan cool things like sports games, art classes, or concerts that match everyone's interests. We could share about these events on social media to get everyone excited. Also, if we let teens help plan, it'll feel more like our thing, you know? And maybe if we give out prizes or special deals, more teens will want to join in and hang out together.

To get other teens into community stuﬀ and City events, we could plan cool things like sports games, art classes, or concerts that match everyone's interests. We could share about these events on social media to get everyone excited. Also, if we let teens help plan, it'll feel more like our thing, you know? And maybe if we give out prizes or special deals, more teens will want to join in and hang out together.

Attachment 1
436
Applications must be submitted no later than
Friday, March 29, 2024, at 5:00 p.m.

For questions, please contact the Parks and Community Service's Department at (925) 556-4500 or [email protected] Attachment 1
437
Youth Advisory Committee 2024 - 2025
Term Application
The Youth Advisory Committee consists of 13 members and three alternate members who serve a one-year term. This Committee is a positive and creative youth-driven forum that gives Dublin teens a way to provide input on programs and activities offered by the City. The Youth Advisory Committee Bylaws and Rules of Procedure govern the meetings and activities of the Committee.

Youth Advisory Committee Bylaws and Rules of Procedure govern the meetings and activities.

To browse past Agendas and Minutes for the Commission, visit the City's Online Records Portal.

Youth Advisory Committee Information Letter
Please acknowledge that you have downloaded and read the Youth Advisory Committee Information Letter regarding regular meeting dates, and other commitments required as a committee member. * Yes
Date Time*
3/29/2024
First Name *
Arshia
Last Name *
Singh
Address *
Street Address
Address Line 2
City
Dublin
State/Province/Region
California
Postal/Zip Code
94568
Country
United States
Phone (Primary) * Phone (Secondary)
E-mail - Please do not use a DUSD email *
What school will you attend in the 2024-2025 school year? * Dublin High School
What grade will you be in during the 2024-2025 school year? * 11th
Application Questions
Attachment 1
438
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.

Letter of Rec for Arshia Singh_03-29-24.pdf 222.62KB
Teachers, counselors, and coaches can email the letter of recommendation directly to [email protected] by March 29, 2024 by 5:00 pm.

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 since I would like to be able create change in our Dublin community. As a young resident of 10+ years in Dublin, I have seen my fair share of problems and issues within our community, however no actual solutions to addressing them. I feel like as apart of the next generation in Dublin change needs to start to come from the younger generation and it needs to make an impact. A lot of the time I see many proposals for change in the community, but no actual change occurs as what students and people are asking for is not realistic or some obstacle comes in the way. I would like to be a member of the City of Dublin's Youth Advisory Committee especially so that I can help initiate change and see it though the whole way, but also make it so that it beneﬁts our community and those who are about to become the key players in our community. I think being apart of the committee would be beneﬁcial since as an older teen in Dublin I can understand problems at a more mature and sensitive manner. As well as help view issues through a fresher set of eyes and perspective, but also understand the process of it and the way it would need to occur.

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 is leadership, time management, and dignity. I have multiple leadership positions at school and in organization outside of school. Being successful in this positions requires not only a driven work ethic but also lots of patience since I interact with and collaborate with many diﬀerent groups of people in these and I ﬁnd it imperative making sure we address all the issues that come up with sensibility and realistically. Maintaining all of these leadership positions also requires a lot fo time management, a skill that I have had lots of time to develop. Since Freshman year of high school I found myself dealing with not only an advanced level coursework, but also participating in school activities and sports, all which take great amounts of time out my day.

Throughout my journey so far in high school I've come up with methods to successfully and eﬃciently not only manage my time, but eﬀectively as well so that whatever tasks I do, I do them with quality and with high caliber. This also leads me into carrying myself and my activities with a lot of dignity. I ﬁnd dignity one of the most respected skills one can have, as I think it shows a good strength of character and person. No matter what activity I do or whom I collaborate with I act with kindness and dignity, making sure that I put everyone around me at ease and try to leave a good impression on those I interact with. I think all of these make me a strong candidate for the YAC.

What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC can address these issues? *
Currently in Dublin, I believe depression and stress are issues teens in Dublin are dealing with. As a majority of the students at Dublin High have great aspirations and are all driven for success it can become stressful in being apart of such a hardworking and successful group of students. It leaves many of us staying up at night completing homework for courses that are incredibly advanced for our age, involving ourselves in various activities that can be hard to juggle each day, and most important of all ﬁnding time to take care of ourselves. I think the YAC can address these issues by creating more mental health and stress-free initiatives at both Dublin High School and in the community itself. I think these could work if executed correctly and presented in the right way, since frequently a huge stigma around mental health is the normalization of it, since unfortunately many cultures see mental health as a sign of weakness or sickness. I think by bringing in these initiatives and programs, which would help with normalizing mental health more, overall would help teens and parents open up more to it and therefore more eﬃciently addressing it. I also think that perhaps raising money to bring in more academic resources for students in terms of advanced placement and regular classes as a whole could help bring down stress levels in students as they have more options available to utilize.

What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2024-2025 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities? * Activities that I am currently involved in is a 40+ member club I started at my school called Books4All, in which I am Club President, where we have been able to raise over $500 and 400+ books for Maui Schools aﬀected by the Maui wildﬁres. I am also apart of the Non-proﬁt Girls4Sports, as vice-president of management, in which I have dedicated my time into volunteering and organizing their youth advocacy workshops and Children's Summer Camps. I was an academic tutor this past year for Kumon Math and Reading, where I taught both High- level reading and High-Level math skills up to Calculus, to elementary and middle school students. In the summer I am a swim coach at Dublin's American Swim Academy, where I coached kids from ages 4-10 in life saving swim skills and swimming techniques. I am also currently and will be apart of the Dublin High's Girls Basketball Team, in which this past season I was Junior Varsity Team Captain, in which I ensured good sportsmanship from my team during practices and games, lead my time through games and warm-ups, and helped manage and organize team practices. I am also a volunteer at the San Ramon Tri-Valley medical Clinic in my free time, as an auxiliary volunteer, where Attachment 1
439
I help nurses with managing the front desk and storage for supplies in the back rooms. I am conﬁdent that I am able to devote as much time How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* I would get teens involved in the community, teen events, and city-sponsored activities by advertising volunteer hours and promoting such events on social media. I understand that while the city of Dublin's Instagram account already advertises this, I think to get a better turnout and response, more marketing and promotion needs to be done primarily to parents and young teens from those in the Youth Advisory Committee themself. Having a more distinct social media presence from the Youth Advisory Committee itself would be the best way to generate interest for issues and volunteering since social media is a great way to promote events. I think regularly posting content about Youth Advisory programs or more context about the committee itself could help bring in more clarity and excitement for volunteering from younger audiences. As well as speciﬁcally involving what activities events would have and what beneﬁt teens would get from volunteering for them, such as leadership opportunities or speciﬁc opportunities, which I think would help draw a lot of youth interest from both parents and teens themselves.

Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting?* No
If yes, what was the meeting date and outcome Att d d th ti t h t th D bli T h ' A i ti A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Applications must be submitted no later than
Friday, March 29, 2024, at 5:00 p.m.

For questions, please contact the Parks and Community Service's Department at (925) 556-4500 or [email protected] Attachment 1
440
March 29, 2024
Dublin Youth Advisory Committee
Dublin, California 94568
To Whom It May Concern:

I recommend Arshia Singh, an applicant for your Youth Advisory Committee. This year, she is a student in my College Prep English 2 course and spearheads DHS “Books4All”, for which I am Advisor. Books4All is a student-run club she created this year, focused on bene ﬁting the greater community through access to
books. Given your community/city focus, Arshia would be a goodﬁt, since she puts much time and energy into planning and reaching education-based goals to beneﬁt the public youth, at home and across the miles. In addition, her meetings are well-attended and student volunteers are plenty, which conﬁrms she demonstrates leadership qualities. She has a can-do attitude and works well with the other leadership team members in Books4All. Meetings are held in my classroom.

Since the start of the school year, she has:
● organized a school-wide book drive, grades 9-12, to bene ﬁt Maui schools affected by the ﬁres in
late 2023; the drive utilized DHS’ Leadership class to help promote the book drive, in which 400+ books were collected and sent to schools in Maui
● headed a Books4All club booth at the Dublin High Winter Boutique; sold 50+ books to families in the community, donating 50% of the proﬁt to the African Library Project ● been working on developing a bookshelf drive and community fundraiser for the Stockton Children’s Home, with a goal to raise more than $500
As a student, Arshia Singh is responsible, hardworking, and accountable. She excels in this course and routinely contributes work that conveys insight and critical thinking skills. In addition to the leadership skills mentioned above, these are valuable qualities for a student to possess and indicate her potential to shine as an ambassador for the City of Dublin’s Youth Advisory Committee.

Please don’t hesitate to contact me at ) if you have
any further questions about Ms. Singh.

Sincerely,
/s/
Sherry Rosso
English Teacher
Dublin High School
Attachment 1
441
Youth Advisory Committee 2024 - 2025
Term Application
The Youth Advisory Committee consists of 13 members and three alternate members who serve a one-year term. This Committee is a positive and creative youth-driven forum that gives Dublin teens a way to provide input on programs and activities offered by the City. The Youth Advisory Committee Bylaws and Rules of Procedure govern the meetings and activities of the Committee.

Youth Advisory Committee Bylaws and Rules of Procedure govern the meetings and activities.

To browse past Agendas and Minutes for the Commission, visit the City's Online Records Portal.

Youth Advisory Committee Information Letter
Please acknowledge that you have downloaded and read the Youth Advisory Committee Information Letter regarding regular meeting dates, and other commitments required as a committee member. * Yes
Date Time*
3/28/2024
First Name *
Rishika
Last Name *
Singh
Address *
Street Address
Address Line 2
City
Dublin
State/Province/Region
California
Postal/Zip Code
94568
Country
United States
Phone (Primary) * Phone (Secondary)
E-mail - Please do not use a DUSD email *
What school will you attend in the 2024-2025 school year? * Dublin High School
What grade will you be in during the 2024-2025 school year? * Junior
Application Questions
Attachment 1
442
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.

Rishika LOR - Google Docs.pdf 191.02KB
Rishika Signh.pdf 14.6KB
Teachers, counselors, and coaches can email the letter of recommendation directly to [email protected] by March 29, 2024 by 5:00 pm.

Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* As a current Youth Advisory Committee member, I know how impactful YAC truly is. I understand how YAC makes such a positive impact on so many teens, and with such grace and execution. I would love to continue my journey being a on YAC next year. I have loved all of the projects we have done, from the Youth Mental Health Forum to the Beneﬁt Concert, planning, executing, and attending these events has been so much fun and truly rewarding for me. I have learned so much, and I feel super pumped to use my skills and knowledge about this committee again next year.

What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* Being a YAC member means so many things to me. It means being someone who can see issues teens are facing, and design problems to ﬁx them. It means being someone who is trusted enough to listen when someone wants to tell their opinion. It means valuing ideas that are diﬀerent than your own, and treating people with respect regardless of wether they agree with you or not, It means being dependable, and someone that other committee members can rely on to get their share of the work done. It means being humble, and always staying grounded and respectful in whatever you do. Lastly, it means being honest, and being able to admit to yourself and others what worked and what didn't. I strive to embody these values everyday and every time I attend a YAC meeting. I'm honest about my ideas, and respectful towards others. I strive to make Dublin the best it can be, with the skills and knowledge I have. I work as both a leader and a team player, being the voice of Dublin Youth. My honesty, empathy, drive, and kindness are all things that are essential to being a YAC member.

What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC can address these issues? *
Dublin teens today face issues when thinking beyond high school. Planning for college, college applications, exam seasons, AP tests, and all the like really stress out Dublin teens. These topics are hard to broach, and are things that should be discussed more openly. Fortunately, YAC can adress these issues through a variety of ways. Hosting an informational panel can be a great way to hear diﬀerent opinions and experiences. We can include someone who went to a four year college, someone who got a masters, someone who didn't go to college, someone who went to the military, someone who went to community college, etc. It's a great way to learn from diﬀerent people, and hear how they reﬂect on their choices. By giving Dublin teens more information, we can empower them to make the best decision for themselves and their future.

What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2024-2025 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities? * Next year, I will be on Varsity Sideline and Stunt Cheer. I have always loved cheering, and I will continue to be on the Varsity cheer teams next year. I will also be executing a research project, interviewing diﬀerent adults in my life about a range of topics, from parenting to education, job hunting, love, and taxes. This research will be required on audio and will then be published as part of a research paper. My priorities next year will be to maintain straight A's, do great on both cheer teams, produce the best research for my project, and to be an active and involved member of YAC. I will be making YAC a priority, and giving ample time and eﬀort to make sure I contribute everything I can to make YAC a success.

How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* As a current member of YAC, I have had ample experience marketing diﬀerent events. This has led me to ﬁnd what works, and what doesn't.

The main things that stick with marketing are big announcements. I have found that emailing school directors, club advisors, and hanging up ﬂyers works better than telling people individually. Posting and reposting on social media also helps bring attention to important events. One of the main jobs when marketing an event is to add value proposition, to make people excited for what they're going to see and experience.

This knowledge helps guide me every time I draft an email to a club advisor, or school administrator.

Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting?* No
If yes, what was the meeting date and outcome I tt d d th l t YAC ti itt b h Attachment 1 443
A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Applications must be submitted no later than
Friday, March 29, 2024, at 5:00 p.m.

For questions, please contact the Parks and Community Service's Department at (925) 556-4500 or [email protected] Attachment 1
444
March 29, 2023
To Whom It May Concern,
I am writing to recommend Rishika Singh for her exceptional qualities and contributions to our school community. As her French teacher, I have had the pleasure of witnessing Rishika's maturity, dedication, and passion for making a difference.

Rishika would be an excellent candidate in providing input on teen issues, hosting events for teens, voting on funding, and offering her opinion on programs that bene ﬁt
California
's youth. Her commitment to these initiatives is commendable, and I’m sure she would approach each task with enthusiasm and thoughtfulness.

One of Rishika's standout qualities is her avid reading habit, which has contributed to her maturity beyond her years. She has a deep understanding of various topics and is able to engage in informed discussions with ease. Rishika listens attentively, speaks up when she believes in something, and is respected by her peers and teachers alike.

In my French 2 class, Rishika is a model student. She is always on time, consistent, and conscientious in her work. Her ability to converse with adults is remarkable, demonstrating her maturity and communication skills.

I am con
ﬁdent
that Rishika Singh will continue to excel in all her future endeavors. She is a motivated and capable individual who will undoubtedly make a positive impact wherever she goes. Please feel free to contact me at
if you require any further information.

Sincerely,
Valerie Jacob-Bohart
French Teacher
DHS
Attachment 1
445
To whom it may concern.

Re: Letter of recommendation for Rishika Singh, Youth Advisory Committee.

Rishika Singh has been my student in Geometry for the 2023-2024 school year. She is an exceptional student and is averaging over 98% in the class. Rishika is a very studious student, always turning in her assignments promptly, and showing great pride in her work. She also demonstrates an intellectual curiosity and often challenges herself with more in depth problems.

In our class we do a substantial amount of group work which provides the students many opportunities to work together, collaborating as they try to master the content. We also have many whole class discussions. Rishika is a natural leader, she regularly participates in whole class discussions and group work. She is very kind and generous with her time and will often work with her classmates and groups to help them understand new concepts and content, she demonstrates excellent patience and listening skills. Students often learn from their peers and Rishika has been a huge asset in helping with class discussions and enabling her peers to gain a better understanding of the material.

Rishika has displayed very strong interpersonal skills, she is able to work with many different types of personalities and incorporates their contributions to the group discussion. I also appreciate Rishik’s humility, she values the opinion and ideas of her peers even though she is capable of doing the tasks on her own.

Rishika is a pleasure to have in class, she is a thoughtful, diligent student who is willing to “embrace the struggle” to gain a better understanding of the material. She works well with others and is often the preferred person that her classmates go to for help. Rishika is also very engaging when discussing other issues related to school culture and society in general.

Rishika is a kind and thoughtful student who connected easily with colleagues, her strong communication and interpersonal skills have played a significant role in shaping the dynamic of our class. I highly recommend her to the Youth Advisory Committee.

Regards
Raj Ramchandani.

Math Department.

Attachment 1
446
Youth Advisory Committee 2024 - 2025
Term Application
The Youth Advisory Committee consists of 13 members and three alternate members who serve a one-year term. This Committee is a positive and creative youth-driven forum that gives Dublin teens a way to provide input on programs and activities offered by the City. The Youth Advisory Committee Bylaws and Rules of Procedure govern the meetings and activities of the Committee.

Youth Advisory Committee Bylaws and Rules of Procedure govern the meetings and activities.

To browse past Agendas and Minutes for the Commission, visit the City's Online Records Portal.

Youth Advisory Committee Information Letter
Please acknowledge that you have downloaded and read the Youth Advisory Committee Information Letter regarding regular meeting dates, and other commitments required as a committee member. * Yes
Date Time*
3/29/2024
First Name *
Riya
Last Name *
Singh
Address *
Street Address
Address Line 2
City
Dublin
State/Province/Region
California
Postal/Zip Code
94568
Country
United States
Phone (Primary) * Phone (Secondary)
E-mail - Please do not use a DUSD email *
What school will you attend in the 2024-2025 school year? * Dublin High School
What grade will you be in during the 2024-2025 school year? * 10th grade
Application Questions
Attachment 1
447
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.

Riya Singh LOR.pdf 64.13KB
Teachers, counselors, and coaches can email the letter of recommendation directly to [email protected] by March 29, 2024 by 5:00 pm.

Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* I’ve always been passionate about volunteering and helping people. By being a part of this committee, I can help contribute to our city, and continue to help this city grow. Being able to make a diﬀerence is important to me, whether it’s big or small, and I’m excited to do this with the rest of the council, by working together at meetings and on projects.

What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* I consider myself to be hardworking, creative, and collaborative. I’ve had experience in collaboration based projects; like in my non-proﬁt, working with my team and the nurses in the hospital (my non-proﬁt is based on giving to NICU centers). My creative skills allow me to come up with good ideas for things, which I think will be a good asset to this council. I’m punctual and can meet any deadline, and I like to be involved, meaning that I will more than willingly step up anytime people are needed for an event.

What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC can address these issues? *
There are a variety of problems and pressures that teens face, which I also know ﬁrst-hand. Some of the most common issues that are faced by teens are academic pressure, dealing with mental health, social pressure, insecurities and body image issues, and family pressure. We can advocate for more awareness on mental health issues and provide teenagers with the help that they need by: establishing more comfortable environments where someone can go to talk and get guidance with ease, referring students to both in-person and online resources that they can use, and emphasizing the importance of coping mechanisms and teaching them.

What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2024-2025 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities? * I spend a lot of time on creative arts and on my non-proﬁt. I go to a fashion design studio, where I design and sew clothes. I also teach young children art and how to sew every week as an assistant teacher. For my non-proﬁt, I sew small blankets for the premature babies in the NICU center in the San Jose hospital. I was a part of my school’s golf team this year and will continue for the next school year. The season is from mid-August to the end of October, and our matches are usually on Tuesday’s and Thursday’s. My Wednesday’s are always free, so I will be able to attend all the meetings. When we have events or projects on other days, I for sure would be able to make room.

How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* Social media promotion is really important. Just a good advertisement on Instagram can lure people in. By making posts that look aesthetic and fun, they could help to attract more students. We can even try to include city events in the video-bulletins at Dublin High School, if we work with the DHS video production team. Another thing that lures teenagers into taking part in community events is if there is good food.

Having food and drinks at events, and making sure that we highlight that in our advertisements can really help to bring teens in.

Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting?* No
If yes, what was the meeting date and outcome I tt d d th ti 3/27/24 I t i d t t i f ti A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Applications must be submitted no later than
Friday, March 29, 2024, at 5:00 p.m.

For questions, please contact the Parks and Community Service's Department at (925) 556-4500 or [email protected] Attachment 1
448
DR. NIDHI SHARDA
Founder & Creative Director
Kalaa Art & Design Studio
Pleasanton
March 25, 2024
Dear Selections Committee,
I had the privilege of having Riya Singh as a student for over three years. During this time I have known her not only as my student but as volunteer who is engaged in various studio activities.

As teacher, I see Riya every week during the school year. She is always prepared for her lessons, listens well, is extremely polite, and is a student who really takes the suggestions I give to her and ensures that she puts them into practice during her time at home. She progresses quickly, learns fast and completes her projects with an innate sense of commitment.

Recently because of her commitment towards her craft, she became part time Assistant instructor in the studio.

Riya’s ability for art and fashion Designing is something that gives her an understanding of perseverance and dedication for the complicated projects.

Students at Kalaa Art & Design Studio not only learn to develop art and Design skills in a technically correct way, but they also learn to conceptualize their own work of art/ design. Riya really shines in this aspect with compositions that are unique and thoughtful.She ensures that she participates in our extra activities like Alameda County fair or writing an art blog, and as a result she has become a very well-rounded student.

Furthermore, Riya also possesses excellent interpersonal skills and demonstrates leadership qualities beyond her years. Throughout the past two years, I have seen her thrive as both a student and person.

I would not hesitate to recommend Riya for acceptance to your prestigious program. She would be a wonderful asset to your Youth Advisory Committee, and would truly be a fantastic representation of a well-rounded, well-liked student.

Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions regarding her character or work.

Regards
Nidhi Sharda

Attachment 1 449
Youth Advisory Committee 2024 - 2025
Term Application
The Youth Advisory Committee consists of 13 members and three alternate members who serve a one-year term. This Committee is a positive and creative youth-driven forum that gives Dublin teens a way to provide input on programs and activities offered by the City. The Youth Advisory Committee Bylaws and Rules of Procedure govern the meetings and activities of the Committee.

Youth Advisory Committee Bylaws and Rules of Procedure govern the meetings and activities.

To browse past Agendas and Minutes for the Commission, visit the City's Online Records Portal.

Youth Advisory Committee Information Letter
Please acknowledge that you have downloaded and read the Youth Advisory Committee Information Letter regarding regular meeting dates, and other commitments required as a committee member. * Yes
Date Time*
3/14/2024
First Name *
Tirtha
Last Name *
Sivanandam
Address *
Street Address
Address Line 2
City
Dublin
State/Province/Region
California
Postal/Zip Code Country
United States
Phone (Primary) * Phone (Secondary)
E-mail - Please do not use a DUSD email *
What school will you attend in the 2024-2025 school year? * Quarry Lane School
What grade will you be in during the 2024-2025 school year? * 9th Grade
Application Questions
Attachment 1
450
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.

Letter of Rec--Tirtha Sivanandam (1).pdf 76.06KB
Business letter.pdf 41.31KB
Teachers, counselors, and coaches can email the letter of recommendation directly to [email protected] by March 29, 2024 by 5:00 pm.

Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* High quality of life for teens, that's my goal. I want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee because I want to give back to my community as gratitude for the 11 years my family and I have been residents for. In Dublin, I have made a vast amount of memories and friends ever since I moved here as a toddler in 2013. The people are so welcoming and kind, and such a community is not very easy to ﬁnd. I would also like to contribute to the children and teens of Dublin, and as a teen, I know what people my age and my friends are going through. Especially in this generation of technology, teens spend too much time on their phones, which is unhealthy for them. I have learned how to spend minimal time on electronics, and I want to create this awareness and change for other teens as well. In addition, I want to develop myself as I am going to high school, where the environment is way diﬀerent. I hope that working in a professional climate will help me improve my professionalism as an individual and learn much more from our city council members to enhance my knowledge.

What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* The skills that I possess that make me a strong candidate for the YAC are my cooperation, leadership, and active listening. Firstly, cooperation is an important skill for the YAC because it displays the ability to recognize everyone's opinions and values while maintaining a positive attitude to work respectfully and eﬀectively. Secondly, leadership is one of the most beneﬁcial skills a member of the YAC should have because it demonstrates inspiration and motivation for others, which creates an environment for taking fundamental actions and success.

Last but not least, active listening is a beneﬁcial skill that makes me a strong candidate for the YAC because it leads to better communication and understanding with your team members, providing the ability to overcome minor obstacles and work towards large goals and decisions.

To conclude, my skills of cooperation, leadership, and active listening make me a powerful YAC candidate.

What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC can address these issues? *
I believe the issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with are spending too much time online, like social media or video games, and homework stress. Nowadays, teens are obsessed with their phones, and as a teen myself, I see this trend sometimes for myself and among my friends. Every time my friends and I decide to hang out, we always use our phones, as if it is something we need to survive. In addition, many teenagers, not only in Dublin, are facing immense stress on homework and extracurricular activities. As an 8th grader I have learned to manage my time and homework, however, students entering middle school or high school don't know this, which makes navigating middle and high school much more diﬃcult for them. The YAC program can address these issues by initiating fun activities for teens to do with their friends and family, which improves their social life outside their phones, and starting informational meetings around the beginning of the school year for students entering middle school, high school, and even college. Bringing in students who have experience in each of these grades (8th grade for middle school, 12th grade for high school, senior or junior in college for college students), would give those students the experience they would not have had without the seminar.

What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2024-2025 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities? * In the school year of 2024-2025, I will become a freshman, which does mean that it will be a larger time commitment than before, but I am willing to set time for the YAC council to give back to the teens of Dublin. I am currently participating and will be involved in activities such as the FTC robotics competition, and track and ﬁeld competitively. However, as I am now an 8th grader with supportive high school friends and parents, I have learned to manage my time eﬃciently. Using the knowledge I have gained from the people around me, I am conﬁdent that I will be able to dedicate time each month to YAC meetings and activities.

How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* Last year, I recently changed schools from Cottonwood Creek to Quarry Lane, which has given me the opportunity to meet multiple people from diﬀerent schools. My previous elementary was Stratford and Murray, and I have good contacts with the teachers on each campus. As a result of the people I have networks with, I can set up posters and information for teens to get involved in the community, teen events, and city-sponsored activities. Using this technique, I can cover a vast amount of people without needing to speak to people individually. In addition, I could also send information out to other teens by spreading the word to my friends who spread it to their friends, moving schools Attachment 1
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helps a lot! This creates potential for people, who do not go to schools where posters and information are already told, to know about the Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting?* No
If yes, what was the meeting date and outcome
A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Applications must be submitted no later than
Friday, March 29, 2024, at 5:00 p.m.

For questions, please contact the Parks and Community Service's Department at (925) 556-4500 or [email protected] Attachment 1
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QUARRY LANE SCHOOL
Dublin, CA 94568

REFERENCE FOR TIRTHA SIVANANDAM
March 11, 2024
To Whom It May Concern,
It is my pleasure to write this reference on behalf of Tirtha Sivanandam. I have had the joy of being Tirtha’s 8th grade Homeroom teacher since the fall. Through Homeroom, I have witnessed firsthand her intellectual vitality, collaborative mindset, and thoughtful approach to everything she does.

Tirtha is consistently on task and organized in her work. During Homeroom, she is proactive about using her time to prepare for the academic day and get ahead on her work. In our recent Homeroom conferences, Tirtha went above and beyond preparing her slideshow on her academic progress. It was a reflection of the thoughtful and personalized approach she brings to the work she does. Her academic success is apparent in the quality of her work, her excellent grades, and the glowing comments from her subject teachers. Her role in classroom discussions and her work ethic were universally praised in my communication with her other teachers, traits I have seen firsthand as well in Homeroom.

Outside of her academic work, Tirtha is an amiable member of the classroom, always willing to work with others and finding the fun in otherwise routine activities. During check-ins, she is often the one student to ask me how I am doing in return, a demonstration of her kind and considerate nature. She brings a positive energy to our classroom and is always respectful in her interactions with others.

I firmly believe Tirtha would be an asset to the Youth Advisory Council. Should you have any questions regarding Tirtha, please do not hesitate to contact me, as I am more than happy to be this driven young student’s advocate.

Best wishes,
Eve La Puma
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From the desk of Edna Ammons
Stratford School, Dublin Campus
March 7, 2024
Dear Sirs,
It is my pleasure to recommend Tirtha Sivanandam for a seat on the Youth Advisory Council. I have known her and her parents for nearly nine years. As her second and fourth grade teacher, I’ve always observed her to be a responsible, observant, inquisitive, intelligent individual with a go-getter attitude.

Tirtha always wore a pretty smile when she arrived at school. Among her peers, she is a likable and helpful friend. When possible, she offers other students her assistance with technical issues, classwork, and a host of other things.

I truly believe she will be an asset to the Dublin City Council as she cares for her community and its immediate concerns. Other great traits are her patience and listening skills. She will do research before making decisions and use her creativity to problem solve independently and as a member of a team. As a confident public speaker, she can voice her ideas and advise other teens in large or small groups.

I am acquainted with both her parents, younger sister, and other relatives. Each family member is supportive of all her educational and extracurricular endeavors. Her parents have regularly attended school functions and also volunteer their services for events.

Personally, I feel that Tirtha is qualified to be part of your youth council as it will benefit both sides.

Feel free to contact me via email should you have any additional questions. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,
Edna Ammons
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Youth Advisory Committee 2024 - 2025
Term Application
The Youth Advisory Committee consists of 13 members and three alternate members who serve a one-year term. This Committee is a positive and creative youth-driven forum that gives Dublin teens a way to provide input on programs and activities offered by the City. The Youth Advisory Committee Bylaws and Rules of Procedure govern the meetings and activities of the Committee.

Youth Advisory Committee Bylaws and Rules of Procedure govern the meetings and activities.

To browse past Agendas and Minutes for the Commission, visit the City's Online Records Portal.

Youth Advisory Committee Information Letter
Please acknowledge that you have downloaded and read the Youth Advisory Committee Information Letter regarding regular meeting dates, and other commitments required as a committee member. * Yes
Date Time*
3/28/2024
First Name *
Kumudha
Last Name *
Srinivas
Address *
Street Address
Address Line 2
Dublin, CA, 94568
City
Dublin
State/Province/Region
CA
Postal/Zip Code
94568
Country
U.S.A
Phone (Primary) * Phone (Secondary)
E-mail - Please do not use a DUSD email *
What school will you attend in the 2024-2025 school year? * I will attend Emerald High School in the 2024-25 school year.

What grade will you be in during the 2024-2025 school year? * I will be in the 10th grade in the 2024-25 school year.

Application Questions
Attachment 1
455
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.

Teachers, counselors, and coaches can email the letter of recommendation directly to [email protected] by March 29, 2024 by 5:00 pm.

Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* I wish to be a part of our city's Youth Advisory Committee because I believe that in this time and society where we are ﬁnally understanding the importance of a variety of voiced opinions, the ideas and concerns of young adults should not be undervalued or ignored. The youth of this community must have a safe space to advocate their thoughts and share their ideas, and I would very much like to be involved in the betterment of our city. I am very enthusiastic about encouraging people to voice their problems and helping them solve them, which is why I want to be a part of Dublin’s YAC and be able to aid a larger group of people in a larger community.

What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* I believe I am a strong candidate for the YAC due to the variety of skills - both soft and technical - which I have procured through my years and look forward to developing in the future. To start, I am a great listener and communicator, which aids me in building relationships with people around me or even in situations regarding conﬂict resolution. Through my captaincy in the Emerald High Girls Basketball Team, I have grown a lot in terms of being a team player while also cultivating my leadership skills and responsibility. In addition, I am a critical thinker with troubleshooting abilities, and can make decisions through logical reasoning as well as compassion. I also bring to the table a strong work ethic, adaptability and eﬃciency, a goal-oriented mindset, and an altruistic attitude towards life. All in all, I am a diligent and reliable candidate intent on making positive impacts in the community using my interpersonal skills and leadership qualities.

What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC can address these issues? *
As a 15 year old living in Dublin, I have come to witness and experience a lot of the issues that teens in this city are facing today. I would say that one of the biggest problems that teens deal with is their mental health. Of course, there are a multitude of factors that can weigh in when it comes to this deep, intricate topic. Pressure from academics, family, social lives, and extracurricular activities can all play a role in the decreasing mental wellness of teens nowadays. I believe that the city’s Youth Advisory Committee can take a stand and make serious impacts towards the wellbeing of our minds. For instance, sessions or conferences can be held in order to spread awareness of mental health, or support services can be provided for those who may be having a hard time. We could also target more speciﬁc issues leading to the decline in mental wellness, such as bullying, keeping grades up, balancing school and social life, or even handling pressure from peers, teachers, and family members. This way, we can reach out to the youth of Dublin and show them that they are not alone in their struggles, and we can help them overcome their issues as well.

What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2024-2025 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities? * An activity that I am currently involved in is Carnatic music, or traditional South Indian vocal music - something that I have been practicing and performing for over 10 years. This art brings me closer to my culture and helps me appreciate this discipline that is so deeply connected to my roots. I also play basketball, and had a wonderful experience being a part of my high school’s (Emerald High School) ﬁrst girls basketball team, something which I plan to continue in the coming years. Another activity of mine is Girl Scouts. I have been a part of this wonderful organization for over 6 years, and it has helped me in many aspects of my life - from community service to introspective skills. In this next year, I am on path to completing two journeys and working towards my Gold Award - the highest possible award for my current level as a Senior. I also plan to start Emerald High School’s DECA club next year, as well as being more competitive in our debate club.

However, even though I will have other commitments in my life, I will make sure to devote time each month for YAC meetings and strive to be very involved in the activities we plan and participate in.

How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* I think I would be very eﬃcient at getting other teenagers involved in community or City-sponsored activities or events at Dublin. Through my activities such as clubs at school or the basketball team, I can easily spread information about these events to a vast majority of my school’s student body. I can also be pretty persuasive when it comes to encouraging others to volunteer through community service or even speaking up for their issues and ideas. For instance, I always convince my friends to help out at Dublin’s events such as Splatter, or the St. Patrick’s Day Festival! I would also post ﬂiers around my campus as well as posting them on social media, since I ﬁnd that to be a really eﬀective way to reach a larger community.

Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting?* Attachment 1
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No
A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Applications must be submitted no later than
Friday, March 29, 2024, at 5:00 p.m.

For questions, please contact the Parks and Community Service's Department at (925) 556-4500 or [email protected] Attachment 1
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Date:March28,2024
Towhomitmayconcern:

IhavehadthepleasureofbeingKumudhaSrinivas’sFreshmanAdvancedEnglishteacherat EmeraldHighSchool,California.

Kumudhaisaremarkablestudentinmorewaysthanone. ThroughoutherFreshmanyearshe hasimpressedmewithherdrive,herwilltoalwaysdobetter,andherorganization.

Kumudhahasapassionforlearningthatneverfailstoimpressme. Herworkisalwaysdone exceptionallywell,submittedontime,andisofthehighestquality. Itiswithcomplete conﬁdencethatIcansaythatsheisoneofmybeststudents.

Kumudha’sskillsatanalyzingliterarytextsandprovidingthoughtfulresponsesareabove average. Inaddition,sheoftenprovokesmeaningfuldiscussionsintheclassroom,whichwere ofbeneﬁttotheentireclass.Wedoalotofgroupactivitiesandprojectsinclass,and Kumudharegularlygoesaboveandbeyondwhatisexpectedofher. Shefollowsinstructions thoroughly,androutinelyexceedsexpectations.

Valueslikehardworking,responsibleandconscientiousimmediatelycometomindwhenI thinkofKumudhaSrinivas. Sheisintentonmakingpositiveimpactsinthecommunity,a sentimentwhichhasbeennurturedthroughhersixyearsofbeingaGirlScoutandtakingup multipleTakeActionandServiceProjectsthroughtheorganization.Beingacaptainof EmeraldHighSchool'sgirlsbasketballteamwasanexperiencethroughwhichshedeveloped herleadershipskills,bybeingresponsiblefortheteam'sschedules,aswellastheirspirits.

Shealsopossessesaverygoal-orientedmindsetandisgreatwithcriticalthinkingand troubleshooting,allofwhichareskillsthatshegainedthroughparticipatingandsucceeding invariousSTEM-basedcompetitions,suchasTheTechChallenge.

Iamcon
ﬁdentthatKumudhawilldoverywellinanyprogramthatsheisapartof. Sheis committed,dedicated,responsible,matureandempathetic. Iwholeheartedlyrecommendher totheprogramforwhichsheisapplying.

Sincerely,
Dr.GeetaSubramonian
EmeraldHighSchool
FreshmenCPEnglishandAdvancedEnglish
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EnglishLanguageArtsDepartment
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Youth Advisory Committee 2024 - 2025
Term Application
The Youth Advisory Committee consists of 13 members and three alternate members who serve a one-year term. This Committee is a positive and creative youth-driven forum that gives Dublin teens a way to provide input on programs and activities offered by the City. The Youth Advisory Committee Bylaws and Rules of Procedure govern the meetings and activities of the Committee.

Youth Advisory Committee Bylaws and Rules of Procedure govern the meetings and activities.

To browse past Agendas and Minutes for the Commission, visit the City's Online Records Portal.

Youth Advisory Committee Information Letter
Please acknowledge that you have downloaded and read the Youth Advisory Committee Information Letter regarding regular meeting dates, and other commitments required as a committee member. * Yes
Date Time*
3/27/2024
First Name *
Nikhilesh
Last Name *
Suravarjjala
Address *
Street Address
Address Line 2
City
Dublin
State/Province/Region
California
Postal/Zip Code
94568
Country
United States
Phone (Primary) * Phone (Secondary)
E-mail - Please do not use a DUSD email *
What school will you attend in the 2024-2025 school year? * Dublin High School
What grade will you be in during the 2024-2025 school year? * 10th Grade
Application Questions
Attachment 1
460
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.

Nikhilesh Letter of Recommendation (2).pdf 87.18KB
Teachers, counselors, and coaches can email the letter of recommendation directly to [email protected] by March 29, 2024 by 5:00 pm.

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 give back to the community that I've been raised in. Dublin is a place where I feel proud to be because of its beautiful diversity, an encouraging community, and opportunities for community service. With my skill set, I could most deﬁnitely make an impact on the city’s decisions regarding its youth- especially because I can empathize with the problems of each and every individual in the city.

What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* I am a very strong leader in the sense that I’ve developed interpersonal communication skills (both in-person and online), I’ve become someone who’s very amicable and outgoing, and I possess organizational skills that help me succeed. Due to experience in DubLead (DHS Leadership), Gavel Club, and Debate, I have become a strong public speaker; and, I can hold a conversation with anyone who I might meet.

Furthermore, I’m very kindhearted and extroverted which has helped me make relationships and friendships with so many Dublin students and adult citizens. Lastly, I have organization skills such as time and task management skills, delegation, prioritization, decision-making, attention to detail, and goal setting, to name a few. Overall, these traits make it so that I’m a good candidate for this position.

What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC can address these issues? *
There are a couple of issues that come to mind when I think of things that teens in Dublin struggle with. One issue is that, especially at Dublin High School, there have been so many instances of littering. This has caused administrators and staﬀ members to become extremely frustrated with students. Secondly, teenagers need more social events that are fun and engaging so they can hopefully improve their social skills that they could’ve lost over COVID. Thirdly, teen vaping, alcohol, and drug abuse is a large issue that needs to be addressed further for the health and safety of Dublin teenagers. Lastly, teens lack ﬁnancial literacy when they get into college and are dependent on their parents for ﬁling taxes, car and health insurance, etc. YAC can approach these issues by posting on Instagram and clear communication. In order to get through to the youth, adults need to get down to the level of the teenagers and speak to them from the heart. I think that YAC could host workshops, with an incentive for teenagers to come (like free boba), that encourage students to rethink their decisions and actions (there can be activities to earn that free boba). If YAC tackles these issues head-on and engages directly with Dublin’s youth in more meaningful ways, we can play a pivotal role in making positive change and empowerment within the community.

Speech and Debate, Leadership, Vex Robotics Competition, and Varsity Tennis, I would most deﬁnitely be able to devote time to YAC meetings and activities each month.

How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* I would get teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored events using well-designed social media posts, ﬂyers, posters, and announcements. Teenagers will most deﬁnitely go to events that are marketed on social media properly. I’ve done it before for DHS Debate and DHS Environmental Student Climate Corps, where I put my graphic designing skills to use and created social media posts that garnered lots of attention. Flyers and posters most deﬁnitely can gain teenagers’ attention, especially if designed and placed in a thoughtful way. Lastly, announcements made by the school’s email chain and morning announcements system could garner lots of attention from Dublin teens.

Attachment 1
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Applications must be submitted no later than
Friday, March 29, 2024, at 5:00 p.m.

For questions, please contact the Parks and Community Service's Department at (925) 556-4500 or [email protected] Attachment 1
462
March 26, 2024
To Whom It May Concern:

It is with my sincerest pleasure that I am writing in recommendation of Nikhilesh Suravarjjala as a potential candidate for the Dublin Y outh Committee. Based on my observations of Nikhilesh in class, as well as my many interactions with him, I can confidently report that he would make an excellent addition to your advisory team and enhance our community.

Out of all potential candidates, Nikhilesh stands out as a particularly strong individual, due to his fantastic communication skills both in person and through email; leadership abilities; personal sense of responsibility; and work ethic in the classroom. He always arrives to class well prepared and with a cheerful disposition that translates wonderfully to our class activities, particularly with our discussions and group work. I can always rely on Nikhilesh to uplift his team’s morale and facilitate their work. Recently, we have been working on a collaborative research paper on a topic of the students’ choosing, and Nikhilesh has been consistently setting goals for his team, explaining concepts to his peers, and successfully encouraging everyone to communicate their points and complete their portion of the research together. Nik has done a superb job of serving as the spokesperson for his team, meeting with me directly after his team has reached a decision or adjusted the focus of their research, and I’ve appreciated the amount of time and effort he has put towards encouraging his peers to produce their best, most thoughtful work.

Another testament to Nikhilesh’s strengths comes in the form of his Persuasive Speech, which he dedicated to the topic of holistic education and how schools should shift towards www.dublinusd.org/dhs
Attachment 1
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incorporating “soft skills” such as emotional regulation, the upholding of values like resilience and responsibility, and financial literacy into the curriculum.

In his speech, Nikhilesh makes numerous well-researched claims, and judging by his peers’ reception, he made a very convincing argument. His persuasive powers also can be traced back to his mindfulness of his peers, which is apparent in his posting a survey to the class asking them for their thoughts on common school activities like group assignments. He authentically used their responses to inform his speech, which was very effective.

Ultimately, Nikhilesh is an exceptional student who genuinely cares about our community and our world and will vouch for making significant improvements in whichever space he is given the chance to occupy. He also has many friends whose concerns he understands and would like to advocate for; he also is easily able to work with most, if not all, types of individuals. I believe that the Dublin Y outh Advisory Committee is an excellent place for Nikhilesh in terms of his continued growth and ability to make a positive impact on others. He will flourish in this space and be a strong advocate for the young people in our community.

Please do not hesitate to accept him!
Sincerely,
Carmen Chan
Dublin High School English Teacher
www.dublinusd.org/dhs
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Youth Advisory Committee 2024 - 2025
Term Application
The Youth Advisory Committee consists of 13 members and three alternate members who serve a one-year term. This Committee is a positive and creative youth-driven forum that gives Dublin teens a way to provide input on programs and activities offered by the City. The Youth Advisory Committee Bylaws and Rules of Procedure govern the meetings and activities of the Committee.

Youth Advisory Committee Bylaws and Rules of Procedure govern the meetings and activities.

To browse past Agendas and Minutes for the Commission, visit the City's Online Records Portal.

Youth Advisory Committee Information Letter
Please acknowledge that you have downloaded and read the Youth Advisory Committee Information Letter regarding regular meeting dates, and other commitments required as a committee member. * Yes
Date Time*
3/26/2024
First Name *
Vijayeshnanda
Last Name *
Vasanthakumar
Address *
Street Address
Address Line 2
City
Dublin
State/Province/Region
California
Postal/Zip Code
94568
Country
United States of America
Phone (Primary) * Phone (Secondary)
E-mail - Please do not use a DUSD email *
What school will you attend in the 2024-2025 school year? * Emerald High School
What grade will you be in during the 2024-2025 school year? * 10th
Application Questions
Attachment 1
465
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.

Teachers, counselors, and coaches can email the letter of recommendation directly to [email protected] by March 29, 2024 by 5:00 pm.

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 in order to help implement new ideas in my community while gaining leadership skills.

What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* I have leadership skills, as I am the president of the EHS Astrophysics club, am part of the Dublin Library's Teen Advisory Group, and was the drum major of the marching band at Fallon Middle School. I have been leading computer science group projects, and I have learned how to manage disputes through the act of compromising. I can also speak loud and clear due to my debate tournament experience. I am a science enthusiast, especially in the ﬁeld of physics, which comes with a lot of math as well.

What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC can address these issues? *
Teens in Dublin are not aware of the activities that happen in Dublin. They should have some social media that allows them to know what's happening in the city. Also, YAC can help teens socialize with each other in order to ﬁnd common interests. This can accelerate their pathway to success in their interest/major. Another issue is that teens should have more opportunities for college and career fairs.

What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2024-2025 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities? * During the 2024-2025 school year, I will be part of some activities. I would still be part of many school clubs, which include some weekend tournaments for Science Olympiad and Speech and Debate. I would still volunteer at the Dublin Library as a regular volunteer and as a part of the Teen Advisory Group. I would still be a part of the Young American Fife and Drum Corps (in which I have parades and ceremonies during national holidays). Nevertheless, I can still devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities.

How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* I would spread the word to all of my friends in order to get them involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities. I can also advertise these activities to the Library, and share through Discord groups. I can also tell my parents, who would tell other parents, increasing my secondary network.

Applications must be submitted no later than
Friday, March 29, 2024, at 5:00 p.m.

For questions, please contact the Parks and Community Service's Department at (925) 556-4500 or [email protected] Attachment 1
466
Attachment 1
467
Youth Advisory Committee 2024 - 2025
Term Application
The Youth Advisory Committee consists of 13 members and three alternate members who serve a one-year term. This Committee is a positive and creative youth-driven forum that gives Dublin teens a way to provide input on programs and activities offered by the City. The Youth Advisory Committee Bylaws and Rules of Procedure govern the meetings and activities of the Committee.

Youth Advisory Committee Bylaws and Rules of Procedure govern the meetings and activities.

To browse past Agendas and Minutes for the Commission, visit the City's Online Records Portal.

Youth Advisory Committee Information Letter
Please acknowledge that you have downloaded and read the Youth Advisory Committee Information Letter regarding regular meeting dates, and other commitments required as a committee member. * Yes
Date Time*
3/25/2024
First Name *
Abhiram
Last Name *
Vegesna
Address *
Street Address
Address Line 2
City
Dublin
State/Province/Region
Califoria
Postal/Zip Code
94568
Country
United States
Phone (Primary) * Phone (Secondary)
E-mail - Please do not use a DUSD email *
What school will you attend in the 2024-2025 school year? * Dublin High School
What grade will you be in during the 2024-2025 school year? * 10 Application Questions
Attachment 1
468
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.

AVegesna_DYAC_Recommendation.pdf 113.98KB
Teachers, counselors, and coaches can email the letter of recommendation directly to [email protected] by March 29, 2024 by 5:00 pm.

Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* I am eager to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee to work with peers across our city to help develop and implement an inclusive environment for Dublin teens to provide feedback on programs and activities oﬀered by the City of Dublin. I have a deep interest in local government and a history of working with peers through scouting and as a participant in the US Congressional Award programming where I am working to complete my Bronze Medal goals. I truly appreciate my public-school education oﬀered through Dublin High School and want to pass learning forward and support peers through YAC programs.

What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* I have a strong can-do mindset and am developing some mediator skills as I ﬁnd that peers trust me and welcome my input – skills that I believe will help support my YAC candidacy. Also, I am an avid volunteer. I often volunteer at the school, at scouts, and at our local food bank. These prior experiences inspire me to help get other students involved in these priceless activities. I also work through challenges and fulﬁll my commitments, even if they become more diﬃcult than originally anticipated.

What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC can address these issues? *
Since COVID hit I noticed that some students feel disconnected with school and the outside world and so would like to ﬁnd ways to help them by conducting a survey to identify how they can become more engaged in school. Also, I have noticed that Juniors and Seniors feel anxious about the college process so maybe we – through the city and our schools could conduct a two-day workshop on college applications, essay help, and how to do FAFSA apps (some high schools do this but later in the school year, so students are unable to take advantage of Early Action applications). I also would like to develop a volunteer list on our Dublin City website to motivate teens into participating in more volunteering activities and perhaps give awards each year to the top volunteer (by grade level).

What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2024-2025 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities? * While busy with school and non-school-based activities, I can easily commit to attending “YAC meetings and help undertake YAC activities and commitments. At Dublin HS I am a member of the school’s Engineering and Design Pathway and also our Key and CSF chapters whereby I enjoy tutoring peers and assisting peer volunteers in undertaking group outreach projects – great to build upon as a YAC member. Also, outside of school I play basketball and I am involved in a robotics club, whereby I connect with students from across our city.

How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* With a history of ‘recruiting’ scouts for our group projects as well as working alongside my peers during Key and CSF meetings in order to undertake volunteering in our extended community I am excited to work with YAC members to support City-sponsored activities. For example, I want to work with YAC and Dublin’s Parks and Community Services Department to help local students become involved in city- supported activities at Emerald Glen Park, summer school day camps, youth leagues, cultural arts programs and connect with our seniors in the community. We also could volunteer at the Dublin Heritage Park Museum and the Military History Center. Of course, I look forward to also participating in Dublin’s special events like St Pat’s Day and Splatter. With some friends in other community Teens Committees, we could also perhaps connect with neighboring communities for event ideas.

Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting?* No
If yes, what was the meeting date and outcome D bli U ifi d S h l Di t i t B d ti Th it I i t A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Attachment 1
469
Applications must be submitted no later than
Friday, March 29, 2024, at 5:00 p.m.

For questions, please contact the Parks and Community Service's Department at (925) 556-4500 or [email protected] Attachment 1
470

BSA Troop 904
Dublin, CA 94568

March 25, 2024

TO: Dublin Youth Advisory Committee
RE: Recommendation – Abhiram Vegesna

I highly recommend Abhiram Vegesna as a committee member of the Dublin Youth Advisory Committee. I have known Abhiram for the past three years as a Scout in BSA Troop 904 in Dublin, California. I’ve enjoyed getting to know him better as he has advanced in our troop.

Abhiram currently holds the rank of Star Scout. Obtaining this rank emphasizes his dedication and efforts to live the values we ask all Scouts to abide; especially, his duty to help others at all times. He has been an active member of our troop and has demonstrated outstanding leadership qualities through his involvement in various community service projects, as well as troop outings, leading the other Scouts.

His respect and support of his fellow Scouts in our Troop demonstrate his potential to step up and support all citizens in our community. Participating on the Dublin Youth Advisory Committee would be a great use of his skills he’s been developing.

Abhiram will be very successful in any service opportunity he pursues. Our troop is very fortunate to have Abhiram now helping our younger Scouts learn how to be model citizens of our community.

Sincerely,

Tim Gaddis
Scoutmaster, Troop 904, Dublin, California
Attachment 1
471
Youth Advisory Committee 2024 - 2025
Term Application
The Youth Advisory Committee consists of 13 members and three alternate members who serve a one-year term. This Committee is a positive and creative youth-driven forum that gives Dublin teens a way to provide input on programs and activities offered by the City. The Youth Advisory Committee Bylaws and Rules of Procedure govern the meetings and activities of the Committee.

Youth Advisory Committee Bylaws and Rules of Procedure govern the meetings and activities.

To browse past Agendas and Minutes for the Commission, visit the City's Online Records Portal.

Youth Advisory Committee Information Letter
Please acknowledge that you have downloaded and read the Youth Advisory Committee Information Letter regarding regular meeting dates, and other commitments required as a committee member. * Yes
Date Time*
3/29/2024
First Name *
Akhil
Last Name *
Venkatesh
Address *
Street Address
Address Line 2
City
Dublin
State/Province/Region
CA
Postal/Zip Code
94568
Country
USA
Phone (Primary) * Phone (Secondary)
E-mail - Please do not use a DUSD email *
What school will you attend in the 2024-2025 school year? * Dublin High School
What grade will you be in during the 2024-2025 school year? * 11 Application Questions
Attachment 1
472
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.

Akhil Recommendation - Google Docs (1).pdf 536.86KB
Teachers, counselors, and coaches can email the letter of recommendation directly to [email protected] by March 29, 2024 by 5:00 pm.

Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* I am currently a sophomore at DHS and I want to be a part of Dublin’s Youth Advisory Committee because I have already begun to do some important work to help our youth at a national level, and I want to continue this work to help the youth population in our city as well. This includes volunteering for SEWA International, a nonproﬁt that helps raise money and awareness for disaster relief. I have volunteered for them by serving food to the homeless and other people in need as well. I have also been consistently volunteering for the American Cancer Society for the last couple of years and I can see the positive diﬀerence my involvement is making. These past experiences and the impacts they have made motivate me to continue to serve my community and make it a better place.

What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* I believe I have the right skills and experience that would make me a great candidate for the YAC. I served as a National Ambassador for Springtide Research, a national nonproﬁt organization that delivers accessible social-scientiﬁc research on emerging generations. When I served as a Springtide ambassador for a period of 15 months, I worked on creating blogs, videos and contributed to scientiﬁc research that helped to solve problems in the areas of mental health, anxiety and loneliness experienced by the youth of this country. I have also been serving as the captain of my competitive cricket team because the coaches believe in my leadership potential. I work very well, both in teams and also individually, depending on what needs to get done. I often come up with creative ideas to solve problems, have a good sense of humor, and I take my responsibilities very seriously. Once I am committed to a cause, I make sure I spend enough time on my commitments and will not stop until I have completed the task. I also possess very strong research skills as seen in my current internship at ThinkNeuro. I am working in a team to research Huntington's disease and currently synthesizing an abstract to answer speciﬁc research questions.

What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC can address these issues? *
Some of the problems that youth are currently experiencing are loneliness and not having anyone to talk to. Loneliness is a serious epidemic that the pandemic has exacerbated. I can kickstart an eﬀort with others at YAC that can help create a safe space where teens who are lonely, depressed/anxious can feel comfortable to come forward and open up. We can work on creating buddy systems and explore resources available that are not being explored. I am able to reach some leaders at the Department of Health and Human Services who can help organize events in Dublin. Suicide awareness and prevention is also something I want to help towards.

What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2024-2025 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities? * I am currently an intern at ThinkNeuro which will end in June. (ThinkNeuro is an organization dedicated to combating healthcare disparities in opioid abuse treatment access through policy advocacy, education reform, and technological renovation). During the 2045-2025 school year, I will be involved in playing cricket since I am part of a National Championship USA Youth team and I have been pursuing competitive cricket for the last several years. I am conﬁdent that I will have suﬃcient time to devote to the Youth Advisory Committee. In the case where there is an overlap with one of my extracurriculars, the committee would be my ﬁrst priority.

How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* I would use word of mouth and social media to network with other youth during after school clubs. I would also seek help from my coaches and teachers to help spread the word and make announcements after classes and clubs. I have had an active voice in the cricket community, regularly advocating to increase diversity in the sport and having access to facilities of better quality. Finally, I would contact the editors of my high school’s publication to write an article about how YAC is helping and how teens can be involved in the initiatives.

Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting?* No
If yes, what was the meeting date and outcome O t b 2023 Th Cit f D bli i d l ti i i A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Attachment 1
473
Applications must be submitted no later than
Friday, March 29, 2024, at 5:00 p.m.

For questions, please contact the Parks and Community Service's Department at (925) 556-4500 or [email protected] Attachment 1
474
Jayanth Chakravarthy
CEO,
Strikers Academy Inc,

Santa Clara, CA, 95054

03.29.2024
Dear Members of the Dublin City Council and Staff,
I am writing to extend my enthusiastic support for Akhil Venkatesh's application to the Youth Advisory Committee of Dublin city. As CEO of Strikers Academy Inc, I have had the distinct pleasure of witnessing Akhil's growth, both as a formidable cricket player and as a community-oriented leader, over the past several years.

Akhil’s dedication to cricket is paralleled by his commitment to academic excellence as a 10th grader at Dublin High School. Since 2018, he has shown remarkable dedication to the sport, honing his skills and demonstrating leadership qualities that transcend the playing ﬁeld. Under his captaincy , our team clinched the MiLCA National championship in the U15 category in 2021 and triumphed in two out of three championship tournaments in 2022—a testament to his tactical acumen and ability to inspire his peers.

Beyond his national recognitions for ﬁelding, wick etkeeping, and batting, Akhil has consistently been among the top 5% of batters nationwide, showcasing his exceptional talent and relentless work ethic. His strategic thinking and decision-making skills, essential for the swift pace of cricket, have been instrumental in our team's successes and have equipped him with the expertise to make meaningful contributions to the Youth Advisory Committee.

Akhil's accomplishments on the ﬁeld ar e matched by his proactive involvement in community service. His voice has been inﬂuential in adv ocating for better cricket facilities and promoting equity in sports for the youth of the Bay Area. His volunteer work, coupled with his articulate and persuasive communication skills, signals his potential as a valuable asset to the Youth Advisory Committee.

As someone who has coached and mentored hundreds of young athletes, I recognize that Akhil possesses a rare blend of talent, discipline, and altruism. He approaches Attachment 1
475
every challenge with a mature perspective and a can-do attitude, qualities that I am conﬁdent will serve the Youth Advisory Committee well.

Should you require any additional information or wish to discuss Akhil’s candidacy further, please feel free to contact me at the details provided above.

Thank you for considering this recommendation. I have no doubt that Akhil Venkatesh will exceed your expectations and contribute signi ﬁcantly to the objectives of the Youth Advisory Committee.

Warm regards,
Jayanth Chakravarthy
CEO,
Strikers Academy Inc.

Attachment 1
476
Youth Advisory Committee 2024 - 2025
Term Application
The Youth Advisory Committee consists of 13 members and three alternate members who serve a one-year term. This Committee is a positive and creative youth-driven forum that gives Dublin teens a way to provide input on programs and activities offered by the City. The Youth Advisory Committee Bylaws and Rules of Procedure govern the meetings and activities of the Committee.

Youth Advisory Committee Bylaws and Rules of Procedure govern the meetings and activities.

To browse past Agendas and Minutes for the Commission, visit the City's Online Records Portal.

Youth Advisory Committee Information Letter
Please acknowledge that you have downloaded and read the Youth Advisory Committee Information Letter regarding regular meeting dates, and other commitments required as a committee member. * Yes
Date Time*
3/28/2024
First Name *
Utkarsh Vishwanathan
Last Name *
Vishwanathan
Address *
Street Address
Address Line 2
City
Dublin
State/Province/Region
California
Postal/Zip Code
94568
Country
United States
Phone (Primary) * Phone (Secondary)
E-mail - Please do not use a DUSD email *
What school will you attend in the 2024-2025 school year? * Emerald High School
What grade will you be in during the 2024-2025 school year? * 10th grade (sophomore year)
Application Questions
Attachment 1
477
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.

UtVi Letter of Rec 2024.pdf 109.25KB
Teachers, counselors, and coaches can email the letter of recommendation directly to [email protected] by March 29, 2024 by 5:00 pm.

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's YAC because it gives me the opportunity to give back to my community, make a positive change, help other people's voices be heard, and get a chance to ﬁnally use my ideas and make a positive change. One of the most important factors for a good upstanding community member is simply giving back to your community, and this committee allows me to exactly allow that by creating activities and helping other teenagers in our community. Secondly, I believe there are many problems and ﬂaws in our community which aﬀect teenagers and other community members, and I hope to solve some of these problems and make a positive change.

Lastly, as a person who takes initiative and is very involved in my community, I know the importance of having your voice heard, especially as a teenager who may not always be seen and taken seriously. Being part of this committee allows me to change that because I can help facilitate student/teenager's voices, get their inputs, and most importantly make sure they along with the rest of the community's voice is heard. Especially being part of a new school(I am part of Emerald High School) where everything is new and being built, I understand how important it is for a student's voice to be heard, since they are also part of the school and before everything is set in stone, they should have their input heard. This develops a strong tight knitted community where everyone has the opportunity to pitch in ideas and get their input heard. High School students are part of this community, yet many times people under 18 are often not taken very seriously, and their ideas and input are often overlooked, but I want to change that since this is an experience I have gone through.

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 YAC is my ability to communicate with others, and take initiative when it comes to completing something, all the way to communication with someone else. Another key skill is my ability to plan and organize. These 4 skills help me in my daily life, in my leadership class (I am part of my new school (Emerald High School) leadership class), as well as in my daily life, and I am conﬁdent they will help me be make me a strong candidate for the YAC and make me successful as well, if I get accepted.

Having good communication skills is important because in any job you have, whatsoever, since you need it for basically everything from teamwork, to planning activities. Initiative is also another key skill because a leader is one who takes initiative to do work, and I try my best to model a leader. Lastly, planning and organizing are key for any committee member in any setting since any activities I have for teens, solving problems for teens and our community, and any other idea or solution that needs to be put in place requires careful planning, organizing, and execution. This is one of my greatest strengths, and I plan and organize in my daily life from my schedule to my game strategies, to how organized my clothing drawer is and how eﬃcient my tennis practice is.

What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC can address these issues? *
The three key issues that I believe Dublin teens are currently dealing with are mental health, speciﬁcally stress anxiety, screen time usage, and one of the most pertinent, not just in this city, but in the world, which is identity. Being part of the Dublin Uniﬁed School District for almost nine years, one of the most important factors of our district is that many students suﬀer from stress and anxiety due to academics and trying to become overachievers. While trying to become an overachiever and especially be strong in academics, it is important to have a balanced brain that is stress and anxiety free. Even I, as a DUSD student, have suﬀered from these issues, because I am also a student who is an overachiever and spends hours a day studying and preparing for school, in order to be successful in my academics, speciﬁcally my grades.

YAC can address these issues by making presentations and talking to teenagers at our high schools and as well as our middle schools which can sometimes be the root causes of our problems. Additionally, I believe we can also hold conferences and sessions where students are welcome to listen to lectures which YAC hosts, that discuss teen mental health, stress and anxiety. It is open to also keep this open to the parents, since parents undoubtedly have a huge impact on their kids, and allowing parents to come to these lectures helps them get educated about this topic so they can help their children. YAC can also incorporate social media posts which have messages that preach teen mental health, stress, and anxiety, since many teenagers have access to this content. Secondly, screen time usage is another huge issue I believe Dublin teens are dealing with. This is because many teens go to school and use computers for hours, and then come back home and once again use computers or other devices for hours to study, prepare, and do their work. Often, high schoolers spend hours more on a device just for work and studies, and combined with the amount of time they use computers at school, and the amount of time they use computers for their own personal preferences, the total quantity of time can have serious impacts on their brain. This problem can cause technology addiction, impaired brain development, social isolation, and impaired social and emotional intelligence. Additionally, the constant use of technology for a student's work both in and out of school, often prompts them to use AI, which negatively impacts their learning.

Overall, teenagers unknowingly spend hours on computers just for their schoolwork both in and out of school, and this impacts their brain, body, and social health negatively at times. YAC can help address these issues by talking to the school board and city about trying to limit the amount of work that requires technology in school, as well as out of school. By doing this, we have the chance to possibly make schools limit the amount of time students are on computers doing work in school and out of school, by limiting technology required assignments, Attachment 1
478
studying, or work. Lastly, I believe many of our fellow teens are struggling with identity issues. This could be their gender, or who they identify as, but there is a huge stigma against this topic, and there is not much support that students receive when it comes to them exploring their identity, and who they are. We can help solve this by informing the public about this topic and further try to destigmatize this topic. The YAC also has presentations and sessions which are open for parents to learn more about this topic, since as said previously, parents have a huge impact on their children, and by learning more about this topic they can help support their child through the important phase they have of ﬁnding their identity. Furthermore, YAC can also try to pitch a possible idea to the board for gender neutral bathrooms in all our schools but in general our city and public spaces also. While private property, shops, and businesses may be out of our hands, our idea could incorporate the public places controlled by the city of Dublin. It is important that we set a goal which is to develop a safe and tight knit community, and while in my opinion these are the three greatest problems which deter us from achieving this goal, I believe the solutions above can help solve these problems and allow us to be successful in achieving our goals.

What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2024-2025 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities? * What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2024-2025 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities? I am currently involved in activities including the Tennis team in my high school, being part of the board of three clubs, and being part of a research program known as Polygence. I will be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities since Tennis practices are not very long and I can skip up to 1 practice every week if needed, my clubs all happen during school with minimal workload, and my research program is more of a long term factor which means I don’t have to spend much time every day to do it, but rather dividing the work over a long period of time. In essence, yes, I will be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities.

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 events by employing two key strategies. The ﬁrst strategy would be developing a huge social media presence where we can have social media posts which many see. The social media posts would include community related topics, teen events, and city sponsored activities which many teens would see. Social media is used by many teens and developing a huge social media presence can make a big diﬀerence in how teens get information about what we do as YAC and how we can get the attention of teens. The second strategy would be talking at schools. If the YAC has a presentation in which explains all these events, and the presentation is mandatory and during school, then students will have no choice but to attend and listen to these presentations. In the presentation we can educate the students about our community and teen events as well as our city sponsored activities. Then we can show the students how they can get involved in these activities and events. This strategy gives us the correct student audience we need, and since it is during school and planned with the school, students will have to attend, and one way or another, they will be aware of YAC and the activities, and events we have.

Applications must be submitted no later than
Friday, March 29, 2024, at 5:00 p.m.

For questions, please contact the Parks and Community Service's Department at (925) 556-4500 or [email protected] Attachment 1
479
From: Saritha Kethireddy
To: Youth Advisory
Subject: Utkarsh Vishwanathan Recommendation letter
Date: Thursday, March 28, 2024 9:39:45 PM
March 28, 2024
To YAC Dublin Selection Committee
I am very pleased to write this recommendation letter for Utkarsh Vishwanathan to get a spot on the Dublin city Youth Advisory Council. I would like to highlight the qualities that Utkarsh has demonstrated over the last few years of my interactions with him that I think make him an outstanding candidate to join Dublin Youth Advisory Council.

I have interacted with Utkarsh in both professional and personal capacity. He was one the LEAD members who worked under my supervision at the Amador Elementary After School Rec Centers. He joined the program just when COVID restrictions were relaxing and our program was limping back to life. He worked during his grade 7 and 8. I can say that he made quite a positive impression. He spent time with the children at the center engaging them in constructive activities. He showed preparation and commitment to his work. He also came across as a people person. He would interact with parents as they came to pick their children from the center and also with other staff members. He was always very

engaged and thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity to connect with the community and schools staff members. He is also very curious and wants to learn about how programs works and how he can participate. He is a team member. He would help me put away the equipment and close down the center on days when he was present. During my interactions with him I

got to know
that he also volunteered for city events like St. Patrick Day Celebration.

I also know Utkarsh personally. His brother is one of the children at the Rec. He comes across as a kind and caring individual who is tuned into the happenings in the community. He always has very interesting thoughts to share on everything in the community from upgrading the tennis courts to the teacher agitation in Dublin. During my recent interactions, I learnt that he is part of leadership initiatives in the new high school, Emerald High.

I wish this young man the very best of luck for all his endeavors and hope that this letter will strengthen his candidature.

Sincerely,
Saritha Kethi Reddy
Recreation Leader - City of Dublin
CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe.

Attachment 1
480
March 28, 2024
To Whom it May Concern:

I am writing to recommend Utkarsh Vishwanathan to Dublin’s Youth Advisory Committee.

I have known Utkarsh since the fall of 2023 and he is currently a Freshman in my English 1 class at Emerald High School.

Throughout the year I've known Utkarsh, he has consistently demonstrated dedication to learning and growing as a reader, writer, and thinker. As a scholar, he takes feedback well and embraces the challenges presented by our course.

Utkarsh has taken on a diverse range of extracurricular activities, showcasing a strong commitment to personal growth and community engagement. From being part of EHS’s leadership class to playing on our tennis team Utkarsh is dedicated to his own personal growth.

Utkarsh will be an asset to Dublin’s Youth Advisory Committee because of his curiosity, open-mindedness and commitment to personal growth. I am confident in his ability to contribute meaningfully to the city of Dublin.

Please feel free to reach out to me if you require any further information or have any questions regarding Utkarsh.

Sincerely,
Constance C. T. Peinado
Attachment 1
481
Youth Advisory Committee 2024 - 2025
Term Application
The Youth Advisory Committee consists of 13 members and three alternate members who serve a one-year term. This Committee is a positive and creative youth-driven forum that gives Dublin teens a way to provide input on programs and activities offered by the City. The Youth Advisory Committee Bylaws and Rules of Procedure govern the meetings and activities of the Committee.

Youth Advisory Committee Bylaws and Rules of Procedure govern the meetings and activities.

To browse past Agendas and Minutes for the Commission, visit the City's Online Records Portal.

Youth Advisory Committee Information Letter
Please acknowledge that you have downloaded and read the Youth Advisory Committee Information Letter regarding regular meeting dates, and other commitments required as a committee member. * Yes
Date Time*
3/29/2024
First Name *
Ruoyi
Last Name *
Wu
Address *
Street Address
Address Line 2
City
Dublin
State/Province/Region
CA
Postal/Zip Code
94568
Country
United States
Phone (Primary) * Phone (Secondary)
E-mail - Please do not use a DUSD email *
What school will you attend in the 2024-2025 school year? * Dublin High School
What grade will you be in during the 2024-2025 school year? * 12th
Application Questions
Attachment 1
482
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.

Teachers, counselors, and coaches can email the letter of recommendation directly to [email protected] by March 29, 2024 by 5:00 pm.

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 as I strongly resonate with its purpose and wish to further my involvement in the local community that I have grown to love since moving from another city. I have not always lived in Dublin as I had previously lived in San Leandro before 8th grade. Due to this, I was unaware of many things going on in the community and did not participate in many events. This is something I regret and wish to change. I also deeply admire the many initiatives that have come from the YAC such as the Youth Mental Health forum and the mini-grants to local organizations which serve the Dublin community. This encourages me to give back to the community as part of this impactful committee and be able to help plan more events that will beneﬁt Dublin teenagers. My own experience in the DubEducate Civic Engagement project as part of the Dublin Mayor's Council where we encourage Elementary and Middle school students to speak up in the civic process has inspired me to pursue further chances to pursue a deeper engagement with the local government.

What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* I possess three skills that would make me a strong and suitable candidate for the Youth Advisory Committee: 1. Event planning, 2. Public speaking, and 3. Adaptability. First, as part of the Breaking BEARriers nonproﬁt organization, I have experience planning and hosting the two Lunar New Year concerts accessible to the public which was a joyous celebration of Chinese culture and tradition. For the 2023 concert, my partner and I took on a more in-depth role as we were in charge of the logistic planning such as directing the club volunteers, ﬁguring out decorations and supplies needed for setting up, and dealing with complications that arose the day of. While we also hosted the event in part, it was a more minimal role compared to the concert this year. My partner and I hosted the entire event (in both Mandarin and English!) last month, introducing all of the special guests, the performance pieces, the raﬄe, and the sponsors that helped the event happen.

Furthermore, I have experience planning for the Breaking BEARriers booth at the Splatter festival last fall where we focused on promoting the club to increase membership. I created and designed ﬂyers, coordinated volunteers and the booth set up, and was the spokesperson for the club on the day of Splatter. Another skill that I have brieﬂy covered earlier in this response is public speaking which is a necessary skill that will beneﬁt all committee members. As previously mentioned, I was the co-host for the LNY concert with around 300+ audience members in attendance. Although it was a nerve-wracking experience to speak in front of such a crowd which included special guests that I looked up to (especially in Mandarin), it was a rewarding experience and strengthened my public speaking ability. I also have previous experience representing the organizations I am in to outsiders to increase membership and engagement in events hosted. As an oﬃcer for the Breaking BEARriers organization, I volunteered to be a spokesperson for the club at a local Pongal celebration in another city. At that event, I described my experience with the organization to a room full of total strangers which once again solidiﬁed my public speaking skills.

Last but not least, I have a reﬁned skill of adaptability. This skill was built through my experience immigrating to the USA from China at a young age and moving cities from San Leandro to Dublin. These experiences have equipped me with the ﬂexibility and resilience needed to adapt to new environments which I believe is needed when ﬁrst transitioning into becoming a YAC member. I am also able to adapt to any complications that arise when event planning which can be applied to any YAC-hosted events. All of these three primary skills and more are ones that I will bring to YAC to become a valuable committee member.

What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC can address these issues? *
I believe that there are three issues that teenagers in Dublin are currently facing: 1. Mental health, 2. Lack of career exploration, and 3. Drug usage. Mental health has always been a prevalent issue in Dublin due to a variety of factors including Social Media, parental pressure, academic stress, and the American college application process. Although there has been an eﬀort made by the Youth Advisory Committee to combat this issue by hosting the Youth Mental Health Forum, I believe more can be done on a more frequent basis. The YAC can plan and host additional events such as public mental health workshops/seminars where licensed professionals are invited to advise on stress management, mindfulness techniques, etc. In addition to these mental health workshops/seminars, the YAC can organize fun community bonding events such as outdoor hikes and various artistic crafts sessions for teenagers. The second pressing issue that I am currently dealing with is the lack of career exploration opportunities for Dublin teens. Many are going into higher education still with confusion about what they wish to do in the future and later ﬁnd themselves regretting the career choices that they were certain of in high school. Even though there are career exploration opportunities like the Engineering and Biomedical Academy at Dublin High, I believe there is a need for more general and widely accessible opportunities for teenagers who might have no direction in mind at all. The YAC can arrange career fairs and career days where professionals representing a variety of ﬁelds are contacted and serve on a panel to discuss more about their careers and how to get there to anyone interested in pursuing the same for their future. The professionals can even be invited into school classrooms if possible to talk to make the information more accessible. The YAC can even contact Dublin alumni who will be able to give more informed advice as they have a better grasp on the opportunities and classes available in Dublin schools. Lastly, there is a substance abuse issue amongst Dublin teenagers as many teenagers are not aware of the full extent of potential health complications that can arise and think that engaging in those activities is “cool”. To combat this critical issue, the YAC can organize public informational events where licensed healthcare Attachment 1
483
professionals and those who have dealt with substance abuse can share their insights to shed light on this problem. Hearing from personal experience and data from trustworthy professionals will help teenagers to gain new awareness. The YAC can even partner up with local organizations like TUPE to plan joint events.

What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2024-2025 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities? * I will continue my involvement in various on-campus activities such as Interact Club, California Scholastic Federation member, and hopefully, as the competitor of the DHS Science Olympiad team once again assuming I make tryouts. I am a current weekly Peer Tutor at Dublin High’s Academic Resource Center and expect to continue my involvement throughout my Senior year. I will also be an oﬃcer for the local Breaking BEARriers non-proﬁt organization which had planned the local Lunar New Year concert twice. I am also a current member of the Dublin Mayor’s Council and plan on further engaging next year. I have also applied to become a Freshman Mentor Program for next year but that commitment is still unconﬁrmed. Even though I will be involved in some community-oriented activities next year, I am certain that I will be able to devote time each month to YAC meetings and activities. Especially since I am passionate about the goal of YAC and wish to make an even bigger impact on the local community through being a member of the committee. I will not hesitate to clear my calendar and prioritize YAC's responsibilities to be a fully engaged and productive committee member.

How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* To get other teens involved with the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities, I will employ a variety of strategies to maximize engagement. First, I will use Social Media to get the word out. As a Social Media Manager for the Teen Advisory Group at the Dublin Library, I have experience in creating Social Media posts to promote activities hosted by the library to further engagement from Dublin teenagers. I am proﬁcient in creating Instagram posts and ﬂyers for promotion. Other than just creating the posts, I plan to ask all of the other YAC members to repost the Instagram posts on their stories so that their respective followers can be made aware. This will amplify outreach beyond just the followers of the YAC account Secondly, I will incorporate promotion at schools in Dublin to increase teenage involvement. This will be done by asking teachers to put up ﬂyers for events in their classrooms or write on their whiteboards. If they are willing, I will ask them to make a verbal announcement in the class or even make the announcement myself. I will also put up ﬂyers around the DHS campus (while following any rules about on-campus promotion) to promote it further. Furthermore, I plan to further promote activities through the various clubs/organizations I am involved in. I will ensure to spread the word about any activities and events during the club meetings. Lastly, I will get the news out with many other mediums such as using my position as the Staﬀ Writer for the Dublin Shield and platforms like WeChat (an app used by many Chinese Americans) to target communities I am in.

Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting?* No
If yes, what was the meeting date and outcome L t th F b 21 t I tt d d th V l t R iti A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Applications must be submitted no later than
Friday, March 29, 2024, at 5:00 p.m.

For questions, please contact the Parks and Community Service's Department at (925) 556-4500 or [email protected] Attachment 1
484
Attachment 1
485
Youth Advisory Committee 2024 - 2025
Term Application
The Youth Advisory Committee consists of 13 members and three alternate members who serve a one-year term. This Committee is a positive and creative youth-driven forum that gives Dublin teens a way to provide input on programs and activities offered by the City. The Youth Advisory Committee Bylaws and Rules of Procedure govern the meetings and activities of the Committee.

Youth Advisory Committee Bylaws and Rules of Procedure govern the meetings and activities.

To browse past Agendas and Minutes for the Commission, visit the City's Online Records Portal.

Youth Advisory Committee Information Letter
Please acknowledge that you have downloaded and read the Youth Advisory Committee Information Letter regarding regular meeting dates, and other commitments required as a committee member. * Yes
Date Time*
3/28/2024
First Name *
Fyonna
Last Name *
Yao
Address *
Street Address
Address Line 2
City
Dublin
State/Province/Region
California
Postal/Zip Code
94568
Country
United States
Phone (Primary) * Phone (Secondary)
E-mail - Please do not use a DUSD email *
What school will you attend in the 2024-2025 school year? * Dublin High School
What grade will you be in during the 2024-2025 school year? * 12th
Application Questions
Attachment 1
486
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.

Letter of Recommendation-Fyonna Yao.pdf 88.31KB
Teachers, counselors, and coaches can email the letter of recommendation directly to [email protected] by March 29, 2024 by 5:00 pm.

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 would like to be able to give back to the community after living in Dublin for so long. I have lived in Dublin since 2011 and I want to show my appreciation of how much this community has allowed me to grow in order to become who I am today, before I go to college. I have a deep connection to Dublin, and it will always be a part of my life. I am proud to have such a great community to live in throughout my youth, and I want to give other young individuals a chance to experience the same.

What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* Some skills I possess that would make me a strong candidate for the YAC is that I love to express my creativity and thoughts, while also being able to consider and build on ideas given by others. I am also able to adapt and adjust to diﬀerent environments and situations that makes me an exceptional person to work with. Especially at home and at school, I am well organized, having great time management skills in order to complete tasks on time. I am dedicated to my roles in a group, especially after experiencing after school activities such as being on the Dublin High Dance Team. According to others, I reﬂect positive attitudes and compassion towards other individuals which also makes me a strong candidate for the YAC.

What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC can address these issues? *
Some issues I believe teens in Dublin are currently dealing with are the lack of conﬁdence due to factors like peer pressure. At school, there are students who force themselves to conform to inﬂuential expectations that others have set. Students feel that if they don’t conform to these expectations, they will be looked down upon, showing a lack of conﬁdence in themselves. An example of this is a lack of participation in class due to the fear of judgment. In order to address this issue, the YAC can create workshops to help students build more conﬁdence. Since there are so many students in our community, I believe that this will be highly beneﬁcial to the future generation of the community as a whole. Another issue that teens in Dublin are currently dealing with is the stress at school due to rigorous courses they are taking. As a student and observer, I notice this is relevant to a wide range of teens at school. The YAC can address these issues by creating a safe space for teens to socialize and spend time away from the stressors.

What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2024-2025 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities? * In the 2024-2025 school year, I will likely be involved in school sports, probably sideline cheer or dance team, and an ROP class. I will be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities because the times will not conﬂict, and I will prioritize the YAC.

How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* To get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities, I would spread the word at school by being open for students to talk to me if they ever feel that they need help with anything. As a result, I would recommend these events and activities to them.

I have noticed that many teens at our school are looking for more opportunities to be involved in the community, so these activities would be beneﬁcial to our community and those individuals.

Applications must be submitted no later than
Friday, March 29, 2024, at 5:00 p.m.

Attachment 1
487
For questions, please contact the Parks and Community Service's Department at (925) 556-4500 or [email protected] Attachment 1
488
March 29, 2024
To Whom it May Concern:

It is with honor that I recommend Fyonna Y aoto the Dublin Y outh Advisory Committee. I have had the privilege of getting to know Fyonna over the 2023-24 academic school year at Dublin High School in my Junior English Course. Fyonna is very responsible student and young adult and actively engages in class.

As a student, Fyonna is a diligent worker who consistently strives to perform her best no matter the task. Fyonna takes constructive feedback provided for her and doesn’t hesitate to inquire for clari
ﬁcation in order to improve on the next assignment. Her persistence towards mastery is admirable and truly demonstrates the drive she maintains for self-improvement. In addition, Fyonna has skills that far surpass students within her age group. Her ability to analyze, synthesize and critique literary and informational text aides in demonstrating her mastery of the English language and overall maturity and passion for the subject. Not only does Fyonna thrive when working independently, but she is also capable of collaborating in a group productively and e
ﬃciently. Whether the task at hand is individual or collaborative, she’s dedicated and focused on the assignment until the ﬁnal product is ﬁnished in its best possible form.

Fyonna also participates in a variety of extracurricular activities as a way to pursue interests apart from academics. Some of her involvement in extracurriculars include: being a member of the V arsity Dance Team at Dublin High, taking piano, dance, mandarin, and ﬁgure skating lessons,
and volunteer work through clubs such as Miu Kuang Temple and Kids Against Hunger to ensure food for those in need. In addition, Fyonna is a genuine and well-rounded student who cares deeply about improving her community.

It is with enthusiasm that I recommend Fyonna to the Dublin Y outh Advisory Committee. She meets all responsibilities with integrity and her curiosity and desire to learn is commendable.

Sincerely,
Juliana Bremer
English Teacher
Dublin High School
Attachment 1
489
March 26th, 2024
Re: Letter of Recommendation
To whom it may concern,
I have had the honor of being Fyonna Yao’s coach at Dublin High School. Fyonna is currently a member of DHS’s Varsity Dance Team, since the fall of 2021. She was also enrolled in my Dance 1 class at Dublin High School 2021-22.

Fyonna is a very responsible dancer and it is a privilege to coach her and choreograph for her. She is a very dedicated and self-directed student who continually strives to improve her technique as a dancer and as a student both inside and outside the studio. Through studying dance, Fyonna understands the value of hard work, as well as the benefits of having a long-term goal. In addition, she works very well with all coaches, and peers and brings a professional outlook to dance team practices. Fyonna is a very observant, adaptable, and independent dancer and team member. She has a great eye for detail and absorbs all information that is presented in the dance studio from all community members. She has a positive attitude, is a very reliable dancer, and her attendance is impeccable. Fyonna brings professionalism to every aspect of her work and interaction with others.

Her education in studying dance as a part of her academics have positively formed her as an individual who has experience with being a team-member, an integral part of a community, and an expert in dance and the performing arts.

It has been my absolute pleasure to have Fyonna on the Varsity Dance Team. Fyonna’s strengths both as a dancer and a team member give her the unique talent of continually growing as both an individual and an artist. I am positive she would be the ideal person for your organization.

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

Sincerely,
Lauren Main de Lucia
Dance Instructor
200-CYT Yoga Instructor
Varsity Dance Team Head Coach
www.dublinusd.org/dhs
Attachment 1
490
Youth Advisory Committee 2024 - 2025
Term Application
The Youth Advisory Committee consists of 13 members and three alternate members who serve a one-year term. This Committee is a positive and creative youth-driven forum that gives Dublin teens a way to provide input on programs and activities offered by the City. The Youth Advisory Committee Bylaws and Rules of Procedure govern the meetings and activities of the Committee.

Youth Advisory Committee Bylaws and Rules of Procedure govern the meetings and activities.

To browse past Agendas and Minutes for the Commission, visit the City's Online Records Portal.

Youth Advisory Committee Information Letter
Please acknowledge that you have downloaded and read the Youth Advisory Committee Information Letter regarding regular meeting dates, and other commitments required as a committee member. * Yes
Date Time*
3/29/2024
First Name *
William
Last Name *
Zeng
Address *
Street Address
Address Line 2
City
Dublin
State/Province/Region
CA
Postal/Zip Code
94568
Country
United States
Phone (Primary) * Phone (Secondary)
E-mail - Please do not use a DUSD email *
What school will you attend in the 2024-2025 school year? * Quarry Lane School
What grade will you be in during the 2024-2025 school year? * 11th
Application Questions
Attachment 1
491
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.

Linta Tannous_William Recommentdation Letter.pdf 503.42KB lhf letter .pdf 195.79KB
fcsn recc letter.pdf 641.05KB
Teachers, counselors, and coaches can email the letter of recommendation directly to [email protected] by March 29, 2024 by 5:00 pm.

Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* This committee can provide me with a platform to speak with my peers, for other youths of the community and to advocate for their thoughts. This position gives me the opportunity to gain experience of what it is like to work alongside my peers and adults to better the experience for others at programs and activities through representing their feedback. I have come to appreciate the diversity of opinions, I believe every opinion deserves to be heard and valued. The YAC gives me a chance to help people and make their experience with city events better by amplifying their thoughts. Ultimately, serving on the YAC aligns with my passion for helping others and making a positive impact on people's lives. By contributing to the betterment of city events and activities, I believe we can create a more vibrant and inclusive community that beneﬁts everyone.

This is my 2nd application: my ﬁrst applicaction didnt include one teacher's reccomendation because they've sent it last minute. My 2 applications will be the exact same, except by havine one more letter of reccomendation.

What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* Throughout my time in middle and high school, I got countless valuable opportunities to develop and improve important soft skills such as responsibility, good time management, communication, contribution, and collaboration. These skills have proved very valuable such as in events like the Alameda Science fair Competition. As a team leader, we won third place with hard work and coordinated preparation. With eﬀective communication between team members in both verbal and written forms, it allowed us to quickly detect issues in our project and creative ways to solve them eﬀectively. Meanwhile, being the president of a creative media club at my school, I quickly got the grasp of how to coordinate and handle successful club wide events, along with how to prepare and set up a fundraiser for club funds.

What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC can address these issues? *
Some issues that I believe are among teams are things like internet addiction, bullying, and stress/pressure from school. I feel like it is within the YAC’s power to address problems such as internet addiction by making public service announcement videos or making an event to promote healthy internet usage, explain how teenagers are aﬀected, and to provide some solutions. Similarly, we can address bullying by making PSAs, organizing mental health awareness activities to raise awareness about issues and signs of bullying-with the goal of letting people know that there is someone there who believes in them. Lastly, for pressure or stress from school, we can address this issue by hosting events made for students to do meditation, make stress-relieving toys, and having college students there to oﬀer advice and on good study habits, time management, and stress coping methods.

What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2024-2025 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 continuing my activities such as swimming; volunteering for animal rescue and tutoring for children of special needs; First Robotics Competition; Diamond Challenge(Business Competition);science fair; and running my school’s Creative Medias Club. Next year, I will be involved in InventTeam, a team to create devices that can help. Additionally, I will be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and attend its activities. I will also hope to attend any additional meetings that might pop up later.

Attachment 1
492
How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* I would ﬁrst say to advertise our event/activity with a post, a post that will have an appealing theme and design while giving suﬃcient information, on social media such as Instagram. The YAC could possibly promote the activity on Dublin’s website, putting up posters around town. Or we could create incentives to come to events, such as oﬀering candy or other small merchandise that can be handed out for free to people who show up to our events or activities. Another possible incentive could be oﬀering discounts to an event, for the ﬁrst bunch of people who show up or having a raﬄe for people who show up earlier to win a small monetary prize.

Applications must be submitted no later than
Friday, March 29, 2024, at 5:00 p.m.

For questions, please contact the Parks and Community Service's Department at (925) 556-4500 or [email protected] Attachment 1
493
Attachment 1
494
Attachment 1
495
Attachment 1
496
Youth Advisory Committee 2024 - 2025
Term Application
The Youth Advisory Committee consists of 13 members and three alternate members who serve a one-year term. This Committee is a positive and creative youth-driven forum that gives Dublin teens a way to provide input on programs and activities offered by the City. The Youth Advisory Committee Bylaws and Rules of Procedure govern the meetings and activities of the Committee.

Youth Advisory Committee Bylaws and Rules of Procedure govern the meetings and activities.

To browse past Agendas and Minutes for the Commission, visit the City's Online Records Portal.

Youth Advisory Committee Information Letter
Please acknowledge that you have downloaded and read the Youth Advisory Committee Information Letter regarding regular meeting dates, and other commitments required as a committee member. * Yes
Date Time*
3/28/2024
First Name *
Rylan
Last Name *
Zhang
Address *
Street Address
Address Line 2
City
Dublin
State/Province/Region
CA
Postal/Zip Code
94568-4293
Country
United States
Phone (Primary) * Phone (Secondary)
E-mail - Please do not use a DUSD email *
What school will you attend in the 2024-2025 school year? * Cottonwood Creek TK-8 School
What grade will you be in during the 2024-2025 school year? * 7 Grade
Application Questions
Attachment 1
497
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.

Zhang YAC 2024.pdf 459.83KB
Teachers, counselors, and coaches can email the letter of recommendation directly to [email protected] by March 29, 2024 by 5:00 pm.

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 to contribute to the eﬀort of making Dublin a better place for all its residents, and serve the community more eﬀectively as a member. My motivation roots in a strong desire to ensure that every voice is heard and considered when making decisions that will aﬀect all our community members. I strongly believe that diverse perspectives need to be represented, particularly when decisions impact the entire community. By advocating for the voices of my peers, I hope to ensure that all residents' needs and concerns are addressed when we’re making these decisions.

What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* I possess a multitude of skills which include experience of over 3 years in public speaking and debate, as well as serving as one of two middle school representatives in the DUSD-wide grading committee (2023-2024). These experiences have enabled me to eﬀectively voice my insights and thoughts with conﬁdence. In addition, my strength in communication ensures that I can foster clear understanding among committee members, thereby enhancing the overall eﬃcacy of the Youth Advisory Committee and as a result, its impact on Dublin. My time in the grading committee has given me invaluable experience in navigating the procedures of high level decision-making. I also learned a lot about current issues and topics that our communities care about.

What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC can address these issues? *
Thanks to the Dublin park and community service department and all the volunteers' hard work, we have plenty of resources for teens, including sports leagues, enrichment clubs and even job training activities. But as a middle school student, I have noticed that many of my friends aren't really aware of this information, and as a result, missing out on great opportunities to get engaged. I think YAC can address this by increasing channels and frequency of broadcasting such information, and I believe community members like me can deﬁnitely help make a diﬀerence.

What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2024-2025 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities? * I will participate in The Wave’s Green Gators swim team throughout the summer. During the 2024-2025 school year I plan to continue participating in math club and debate club. Most school activities ﬁnish before 5pm, while the other enrichment classes I will take, such as chess and language classes, are very ﬂexible and often fall on weekends. So I will have enough time and would like to dedicate to youth advisory committee.

How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* I intend to actively promote participation through leading by example. I will participate in these events and activities with passion and dedication myself, and in the meantime share the experiences and learnings with other teens in my community, encouraging them to get involved as well. Furthermore, I plan to create compelling promotional materials such as ﬂyers, and organize contests, making participation in such activities fun and enjoyable.

Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting?* No
If yes, what was the meeting date and outcome
A di t （ Th d f N 2023 t F b 20
A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Applications must be submitted no later than
Friday, March 29, 2024, at 5:00 p.m.

Attachment 1
498
For questions, please contact the Parks and Community Service's Department at (925) 556-4500 or [email protected] Attachment 1
499

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

Principal
March 27, 2024
To Whom It May Concern:

I am pleased to write this letter as a recommendation for Mr . Rylan Zhang for the Dublin Youth Advisory Committee. I have known Rylan for nearly six years, since he began first grade.

I have had the pleasure of watching Rylan grow into a responsible, caring, diligent and hardworking student. Rylan is a quiet leader , which makes him an ideal candidate for a position on the Youth Advisory Committee.

Rylan is observant. He is highly respectful and well respected by his peers. One of the qualities I admire most about him, is his ability to see, understand and influence the whole, the part and greater whole of our school and overall community. Rylan took the initiative to apply to be on the DUSD Grading Committee. A role he took seriously. He completed research, he formulated key ideas and supported them with evidence. As a member of this committee, I had the pleasure of observing him work collaboratively with administrators, parents, teachers, Board Members, the Superintendent of Schools and middle and high school students. His confidence, research and ability to articulate himself courageously, authentically and creatively shined.

Rylan once told me he hopes to make a positive impact within our school and community. He brings up suggestions that could help improve our school, school processes or inclusivity on campus. He takes pride in himself and works hard to contribute positively.

Without hesitation, I wholeheartedly recommend Mr . Rylan Zhang for your committee. He will make a great member of 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 Attachment 1 500
Youth Advisory Committee 2024 - 2025
Term Application
The Youth Advisory Committee consists of 13 members and three alternate members who serve a one-year term. This Committee is a positive and creative youth-driven forum that gives Dublin teens a way to provide input on programs and activities offered by the City. The Youth Advisory Committee Bylaws and Rules of Procedure govern the meetings and activities of the Committee.

Youth Advisory Committee Bylaws and Rules of Procedure govern the meetings and activities.

To browse past Agendas and Minutes for the Commission, visit the City's Online Records Portal.

Youth Advisory Committee Information Letter
Please acknowledge that you have downloaded and read the Youth Advisory Committee Information Letter regarding regular meeting dates, and other commitments required as a committee member. * Yes
Date Time*
3/29/2024
First Name *
Aria
Last Name *
Zhou
Address *
Street Address
Address Line 2
City
Dublin
State/Province/Region
California
Postal/Zip Code
94568
Country
United States
Phone (Primary) * Phone (Secondary)
E-mail - Please do not use a DUSD email *
What school will you attend in the 2024-2025 school year? * Quarry Lane School
What grade will you be in during the 2024-2025 school year? * 12th
Application Questions
Attachment 1
501
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.

Letter of Rec- YAC.pdf 23.65KB
Teachers, counselors, and coaches can email the letter of recommendation directly to [email protected] by March 29, 2024 by 5:00 pm.

Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* There was this period in my teenage years where, during the pandemic when all of the news was dreary, I had felt so furious about all of the injustices in the world. My mom taught me to channel this frustration into something productive, where the ﬁrst step was community service. If I wanted to propel change in the community, I had the ability to do so, myself. She told me to start with small steps. Ruminating about changing the entire world wasn’t going to give me the desired results, but putting myself out there would give me a beginning. From school clubs to teaching at science fairs, my involvement felt more tangible, and opened my world to a variety of options that were greater than the trap I had set in my head.

I am sincerely eager to become a part of Dublin's Youth Advisory Committee because I am passionate about serving the community and amplifying the voices of young individuals who may share feelings of helplessness. Dublin's YAC actively supports mental health resources and community cohesion through its events, and I am eager to contribute to their impactful initiatives. Additionally, I am excited about the opportunity to engage with my community and expand my understanding of diverse cultures and local governance. The committee's mini grant program oﬀers students the chance to support local initiatives and youth-led clubs, enabling tangible changes in our community from classmates to future student leaders. Through my participation in YAC, I aim to advocate for positive change and address youth issues in Dublin, leveraging my experiences and dedication to eﬀectively serve the community.

What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* I have lived in Dublin since I was three, but it was my experience interning with Mayor Hernandez that revealed what happened “behind the scenes”, from topics such as economic development, parks and community services, public works, and transportation. Meeting with Dublin Board members deepened my understanding of the complex interplay between local governance and community welfare. As YAC facilitates a relationship between the teens of Dublin and its council, I feel that knowing about Dublin’s urban management would help bring context to the conversation on a larger scale.

Under Mayor Hernandez’s mentorship, I also participated in the research for Valley Link, learning more about its fuel production, environmental impact, and economic considerations.

This experience taught me more about networking, as I attended a Valley Link meeting alongside Ms. Rebecca Bauer Kahan’s interns. This skill helps me connect with experts in their ﬁeld, such as the hydrogen train committee for my internship, who were able to provide in-depth perspectives on important issues. From the many hours of research about ValleyLink, Stadler, and other papers written about hydrogen fuel, I picked up data analysis as well. My hands-on involvement in events such as facilitating dog therapy services at the Veterans Stand Down, showcases my ability to implement meaningful initiatives that address pressing needs.

Additionally, organizing events is a fundamental aspect of APAPA, Asian Paciﬁc Islander American Public Aﬀairs Association, which is another organization I devote much of my time to. One of their most popular events that I helped organize for the past ﬁve years is the annual Asian Heritage Month Celebration. Through this annual process of preparing for this event, I am well versed in reaching out to many diﬀerent performing groups and sponsors, and emceed at the event, honing my public speaking skills. I also learned meticulous organization so that there isn’t a dull moment throughout the show, planning down to the minute through numerous rehearsals and emails.

Another event that I worked with APAPA to create was the Conversation with Chief series, which initially began in Dublin’s senior center and spanned to other cities. This is a group of presentations by the Police Chief and his oﬃcers to educate the youth, general public, and seniors about ensuring safety in numerous situations, such as car thefts and school shootings. As a key organizer of the Conversation with Chief series, this event reﬁned my leadership skills in facilitating dialogue between law enforcement and our community group. I was also able to do outreach to local youth initiatives, such as Breaking Bearriers, and other cities when collaborating with the local police oﬃcers and Chief, which is a skill that I believe would be very useful in YAC when planning events with community organizations.

I also have much experience with fundraising through the International Internship Program, where we raise money to send to the Miri community in Bauchi, Nigeria, which is facing many challenges such as a lack of water sanitation, poor public health education, and little-to- no resources for those in need. We made a thousand dollars in the ﬁrst week by connecting with family friends and supporters through posters, social media outreach, emails, and even Whatsapp. For YAC, I can utilize my experience to fund more Dublin Events and resources, as well as support community nonproﬁts.

Ultimately, what ties all of these events together is my care and commitment to Dublin, especially, and to create a better community for my peers and for myself. I ﬁnd that regardless of the prior knowledge I’ve had and skills such as networking, organization, research, and Attachment 1
502
fundraising, none of these would be made possible without the collaboration and shared passion that has driven many of these projects and events.

What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC can address these issues? *
One of the more prominent issues that teens in Dublin likely struggle with is mental health caused by academic and peer pressure. In the Tri- Valley area, there's a notable emphasis among students on academic performance. This is likely inﬂuenced by the region's reputation within the Bay Area and the prevalent aspirations among a signiﬁcant portion of Asian parents for their children to excel academically. Another underlying factor in high school is the competition to be accepted into a prestigious college. Over the years, only a select few top students get into these competitive institutions, causing even more angst among students. students' expectations from parents and themselves are likely due to their own ambition to be “enough” and to make their parents proud. Furthermore, many students want to appear smart and successful in front of their peers and friends in order to feel good about themselves.

It’s possible that this constricted feeling is further exacerbated by the numerous students conﬁned to the overpopulated Dublin High School.

Not only will teens feel constricted by the cramped space, the bell schedule and limited resources may add to the overall sense of pressure.

Consequently, they may lash out verbally or physically, which can be a problem if some students resort to bullying or basing their self esteem on what they see online.

Thus, many students struggle with anxiety, burnout, and depression, which is common among teenagers. Mental health has only been recently more normalized because many older fashioned ideas dismiss mental health struggles. One of the possible solutions is to provide resources and spaces where teens can discuss their feelings and seek support from trained professionals or peers who understand their experiences. It’s possible to connect with local schools to promote mental health awareness and advocate for changes to curriculum to reduce unnecessary pressure on students.

Organizing mental health events is another option to reduce the stigma surrounding seeking help. YAC could also advocate for increased funding for mental health services and support networks for teenagers. For example, the DMC (Dublin Mayor’s Council) group I am part of ﬁlmed and presented a video to inform students at both Quarry Lane and Dublin High about the signiﬁcance of mental health awareness and available support resources in order to promote a supportive environment where students feel comfortable seeking help when needed.

We also are hosting an upcoming Mental Health Summit where organizations such as NAMI will speak about these subjects to foster dialogue surrounding mental health challenges and create a safe space for those struggling.

Hopefully, this event will address these issues and allow teenagers, as well as individuals of all ages who may be sharing a similar experience, to feel heard and validated. Meeting with others who have felt the same as you can lead to meaningful relationships that encourage growth and self reﬂection, rather than a resort to substance abuse or other unhealthy coping mechanisms. I know that it has been a couple of years since the previous Mental Health Summit hosted by the YAC, so if possible, I would like to take part when hosting another event in the coming term.

In conclusion, by addressing the multifaceted challenges teenagers face in Dublin, including mental health struggles, societal pressures, and access to resources, we can foster a community that prioritizes the well-being and development of its youth.

What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2024-2025 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities? * For the upcoming school year, I am leading the Quarry Lane Library Project, and will also be participating in the International Internship Program (IIP) and the Dublin Mayor’s Council. My activities give me a unique perspective and set of skills to contribute to the YAC, and I am conﬁdent that I will be present at meetings and activities, devoting as much time and resources as I can to the Dublin Youth Advisory Council.

I want to increase my involvement through joining the YAC to improve the community, so it is very important to me to prioritize YAC and balance my other responsibilities to contribute in an eﬀective manner.

How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* To promote events involving teens and the community, utilizing social media and posters would motivate more students to be involved.

Creating engaging content would inspire excitement and interest in the activities and encourage teenagers to share the event information with their peers. For example, I am the social media manager for a club named SAFE (Sexual Assault Fighting Eﬀort), and we employ the platform to educate others about historical ﬁgures who have spoken against sexual harassment and relevant statistics. This experience would allow me to be more familiar with contacting others through social media and promoting awareness so that YAC can have more community members involved in their outreach events.

Partnering with local businesses or youth-led initiatives would be another way to encourage teen engagement, as well as publicize businesses in the community to support. Another option would be connecting with schools to promote this event through announcements, bulletin boards, and newsletters. This would allow for a more extensive reach so that teens of all ages could be more informed and be able to participate. One of the most eﬀective ways of sharing an event is to network with those in Quarry Lane, Dublin High, my fencing classes, where there are students from all over the Tri-Valley. It is also possible to share information with students involved in civic engagement, like Attachment 1
503
my peers at APAPA, as well as other elected oﬃcials working alongside with APAPA.

Furthermore, if we appeal to students' interests, such as art exhibitions, sports events, or music concerts, such as this year’s beneﬁt concert, we could attract a wider audience and encourage greater participation. It’s vital for these activities to be interactive so that we can capture teens' interest and keep them entertained throughout. As attention spans are slowly shrinking due to the consumption of short media, emphasizing immersive experiences for these teens, such as competitions, can keep them focused on the event. Diversifying our activities can also introduce students to diﬀerent cultures and languages and align with teens' various hobbies.

If we wanted to pinpoint what draws students to these events, we could utilize surveys to gain valuable insights into their preferences and help tailor programs accordingly. Especially if teens would like to learn more about the government or would like to participate in volunteering, these events would ﬁt both their personal and extracurricular interests. Their feedback, ideas, and suggestions would then reﬂect the intended demographic more closely, resulting in a more cohesive and valuable community engagement strategy that resonates with the interests and needs of teenagers. This inclusive approach also empowers teenagers to play an active role in shaping the future of their community. Moreover, it’s crucial to consider how accessible the venue is and how inclusive the activity is. Location-wise, choosing a location that promotes walking or public transportation can emphasize living greener, especially as Dublin is paving the road in the Tri-Valley to a more sustainable transportation system. Accessibility could mean a free event in a generally accessible place so that individuals who may use crutches, wheelchairs, or canes can also join. There should also be alternative activities available for those who may not be able to physically involve themselves in the activities, whether there are physical obstacles or sensory overstimulation, so that everyone is able to enjoy the event. Ultimately, by valuing and incorporating the perspectives of young people, YAC can cultivate a more inclusive and responsive environment.

Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting?* No
If yes, what was the meeting date and outcome A I h d tt d d th 3/27 YAC ti I i d b A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Applications must be submitted no later than
Friday, March 29, 2024, at 5:00 p.m.

For questions, please contact the Parks and Community Service's Department at (925) 556-4500 or [email protected] Attachment 1
504

March 28, 2024

Dear City of Dublin,
It is with genuine and great pleasure that I provide this letter of recommendation for Aria Zhou in consideration for the 2024-2025 Youth Advisory Committee for the City of Dublin. My name is Susanna Ordway, and I am the President of APAPA Tri-Valley Chapter. In the 24 months that Aria has participated with APAPA Tri-Valley, she has already contributed to our organization in increasingly valuable ways. In my multiple roles and years as an educator, college counselor, community leader and volunteer, I have counseled, mentored, and coached hundreds of students and young adults. I can honestly say that Aria has been one of the most thoughtful, responsible, and collaborative individuals that I’ve met. She has all the characteristics and strengths that make her not only an excellent community member and volunteer, but a natural leader as well.

I first worked with Aria when she was selected as an intern for APAPA’s Summer Internship Program last year. Because she indicated an interest in public policy and community service, she was matched with an internship in City of Dublin Mayor Melissa Hernandez’s office. From the feedback that we received for her performance, Aria excelled in learning quickly and completing projects and responsibilities that exceeded expectations.

To complete her internship with APAPA Tri-Valley, Aria also had to fulfill a minimum of 30 community service hours with us. I can confidently report that Aria exceeded that number easily. Not only did she volunteer for many of the events that we hosted for the community, but she spearheaded the planning and coordinated a few of them. For example, Aria was one of the key members in APAPA Youth Planning Committee that organized one of our signature events: our annual Dublin Asian Heritage Celebration in May 2023. This was a popular event that showcased multiple performances and highlighted the diversity of our AANHPI community. Coordinating such a high visible event is daunting for many adults, but Aria managed it brilliantly. She and her team had to communicate with all the performers, sequence the performances, solicit potential sponsors, recruit, and lead the team of 5 emcees. The event was extremely successful and garnered not only good-will from many in the community, but with a packed auditorium, it also fundraised for APAPA Tri-Valley and the Dublin Performing Arts Center.

Tri-Valley Chapter
Alamo • Danville • Dublin • Livermore • Pleasanton • San Ramon P.O. Box 632, San Ramon, CA 94583
apapa.org/trivalley-ca • [email protected]

Attachment 1
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Another event that she co-led was a brand new APAPA initiative: the Conversation with Police Chief event. Aria collaborated with other youth group organizations to host a forum for the Dublin police to share key information about public safety with the Dublin residents, and to address their concerns on theft, in-home robberies, campus safety, mental health, fraud/scam, etc. For that event, she had also worked with sponsors for food & snacks, helped create and distributed ﬂyers, collected questions from residents prior to the event, and worked with teams to set up and close the event. Aria was also the lone intern that helped manned the APAPA booth at the Dublin Splatter event last September. She helped our organization promote our mission, explained our internship program, and shared her experience with teens and their parents.

For all the above reasons and more, I enthusiastically recommend Aria Zhou for a position on the City of Dublin’s Youth Advisory Committee. After all, she has already been representing the City of Dublin in multiple ways under the APAPA organization…She sh ould oﬃcially be part of the Committee that will provide youth voice and perspective to Dublin and be given an opportunity to positively contribute to her home city.

If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact me directly. I would be happy to provide additional information on Aria’s outstanding performance and character.

Sincerely yours,

Susanna W. Ordway
President
APAPA Tri-Valley Chapter

Attachment 1
506
Student Representative to the Parks
and Community Services Commission
2024-25 Term Application
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 2024-2025 term, which runs from July 1, 2024 to June 30, 2025. Application deadline is Friday, March 29, 2024, at 5:00 PM. LATE APPLICATIONS WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED.

Youth Advisory Committee Bylaws and Rules of Procedure govern the meetings and activities.

To browse past Agendas and Minutes for the Commission, visit the City's Online Records Portal.

Student Representative Information Letter
Please acknowledge that you have downloaded and read the Student Representative Information Letter regarding regular meeting dates, and other commitments required of the Student Representative. * Yes
Date Time*
3/29/2024
First Name *
Nithila
Last Name *
Sadheesh
Address *
Street Address
Address Line 2
City
Dublin
State/Province/Region
CA
Postal/Zip Code
94568
Country
United States
Phone (Primary) * Phone (Secondary)
E-mail - Please do not use a DUSD email *
What high school are you currently attending? *
Dublin High School
What high school will you be attending in the 2024-2025 school year? * Dublin High School
What grade (Junior or Senior only) will you be during the 2024-2025 school year? * Attachment 2
507
Senior
Application Questions
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.

Why are you interested in serving on the Parks and Community Services Commission? * I am deeply passionate about serving on the Parks and Community Services Commission because I have had invaluable experiences in Dublin that have given me a desire to serve our community. Throughout the last ﬁve years I have lived in Dublin, the people I have interacted with and the events I have attended have allowed me to develop a sense of belonging within our community and I hope to create events and opportunities that do the same for others through the Parks and Community Services Commission. I believe that the wonderful parks we have around Dublin and the numerous community events the commission leads will be able to do exactly this. The youth are an important part of our city who can gain tremendously from the opportunities the Parks and Community Services Commission provides. I would love to be able to represent the voices of our youth and address their needs in our city.

What is the most important contribution you can make to the Commission? * The most important contribution I can make to the Commission is providing an informed, student-view perspective on the projects and decisions the Commission makes. When providing my views to the Commission, I will ensure that it accurately represents the voices of the youth by directly communicating with them and receiving their feedback while also considering my own experiences and observations. In being on the Youth Advisory Committee I have gained a familiarity with our city’s people, culture, and activities, as well as the work of the Commission. This will allow me to carry out my role as student representative of the Commission well and eﬃciently. I see that currently many of my peers are unaware of all the activities of the Commission and one of my major goals will be to connect them to these activities and ensure that they are impacted positively.

What knowledge do you have of the parks and recreational facilities in Dublin? * From when I started living in Dublin, my family and I have constantly utilized the parks around Dublin and have received tremendous value from it. I am most familiar with Fallon Sports Park and have gone there countless times but I have also visited parks like Don Biddle Park and Emerald Glen. I think the best part regarding the parks around Dublin is the opportunity to see our community and connect with new people. The ability for parks to bring together people with diverse interests and ages and allow them to bond is something Dublin parks do exceptionally well. I am aware of the major recreational facilities in Dublin open to everyone including The Wave, Shannon Community Center, and Dublin Senior Center. I am also aware of the Commission organizing youth programs and activities for the community like the Holiday house decorating competition, which I thought was a fun and creative idea to engage the community.

What knowledge do you have of the programs offered through the Parks and Community Services Department? Have you ever participated in a program (such as Dublin LEAD, Youth Advisory Committee - YAC) or class offered by the Parks and Community Services Department?
*
I have been able to acquire an awareness of the programs oﬀered through the Parks and Community Services Department. Although I have not participated in the Dublin LEAD program, I know that it is a youth summer program with the aim of giving teens the opportunity to assist at camps and swim lessons and teach them important job and leadership skills. Additionally, I am currently a member of the Youth Advisory Committee in which I am also a part of the Beneﬁt Concert Ad-Hoc Committee. I have had a wonderful experience being on the Committee as I was able to connect with like-minded peers and help Dublin youth through community service at city events, the Youth Mental Form, the Mini-Grant Program, and, what will be in May, the Beneﬁt Concert. During my term on YAC I have acquired knowledge and skills that I will be able to implement in the Parks and Community Services Commission. For example, one thing I learned was exactly through which means advertising is most eﬀective and I can use this to inform teens about the various events and projects the Commission is carrying out.

What school and/or extracurricular activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2024-2025 school year, and will you be able to regularly attend the monthly meetings? * Attachment 2
508
The activities I am currently involved in include STEM related activities like independent research and hackathons, school clubs like Girls Who Code and Spanish Honors Society, and piano. I will be continuing these same activities during the 2024-2025 school year along with potentially getting a tutoring job, something I am very passionate about. I will deﬁnitely be able to devote time regularly to attend the monthly meetings as well as do any additional research/thinking outside the meeting times. As part of the Youth Advisory Committee, I have kept it as one of my top priorities and have attended every general member meeting and ad-hoc meeting I am also aware of the importance Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting?* No
If yes, what was the meeting date and outcome
of the item(s) you were interested in? As a member, I have attended every YAC general meeting and Be A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Applications must be submitted no later than
Friday, March 29, 2024, at 5:00 p.m.

For questions, please contact the Parks and Community Service's Department at (925) 556-4500 or [email protected] Attachment 2
509
11 March 2024
Dear Selection Board - Dublin Youth Advisory Committee, I am writing to wholeheartedly recommend Nithila Sadheesh for consideration as a member of your esteemed Youth Advisory Board. As Nithila's Teacher at Dublin High School, I have had the privilege of repeatedly witnessing her remarkable growth, leadership qualities, and dedication to community service.

Attachment 2
510
I have no doubt that Nithila will make significant contributions to your Youth Advisory Committee and serve as a passionate advocate for the voices and concerns of young people in our community. She has the vision, drive, and leadership skills necessary to inspire positive change and make a lasting impact. She is exactly the right person for this committee Please feel free to contact me if you require any further information or clarification regarding Nithila's qualifications and suitability for this esteemed opportunity. Thank you for considering her for this important role.

Sincerely,
Patrick M. McKie
Command Sergeant Major, US Army (Retired)
US History Teacher, Dublin HS

Attachment 2
511

Above all, Nithila simply exudes a warm and friendly persona, making her approachable and adaptable in any situation. I have no doubt she is the ideal candidate for your program.

Sincerely,
Rocio Serrano
Spanish Language Teacher and Spanish Honors Advisor
Dublin High School
8151 Village Parkway
Dublin, California 94568-1699
(925) 833-3300 – Fax (925) 833-3322
Attachment 2
512
Student Representative to the Parks
and Community Services Commission
2024-25 Term Application
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 2024-2025 term, which runs from July 1, 2024 to June 30, 2025. Application deadline is Friday, March 29, 2024, at 5:00 PM. LATE APPLICATIONS WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED.

Youth Advisory Committee Bylaws and Rules of Procedure govern the meetings and activities.

To browse past Agendas and Minutes for the Commission, visit the City's Online Records Portal.

Student Representative Information Letter
Please acknowledge that you have downloaded and read the Student Representative Information Letter regarding regular meeting dates, and other commitments required of the Student Representative. * Yes
Date Time*
3/29/2024
First Name *
Satvik
Last Name *
Marthi
Address *
Street Address
Address Line 2
City
Dublin
State/Province/Region
California
Postal/Zip Code
94568-7327
Country
United States
Phone (Primary) * Phone (Secondary)
E-mail - Please do not use a DUSD email *
What high school are you currently attending? *
Dublin High School
What high school will you be attending in the 2024-2025 school year? * Dublin High School
What grade (Junior or Senior only) will you be during the 2024-2025 school year? * Attachment 2
513
Senior
Application Questions
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.

Teachers, counselors, and coaches can email the letter of recommendation directly to [email protected] by March 29, 2024 by 5:00 pm.

Why are you interested in serving on the Parks and Community Services Commission? * Reﬂecting on my journey as a resident of Dublin over the past ﬁve years ﬁlls me with profound appreciation for the city's commitment to diversity and inclusivity. Upon my arrival in Dublin as an 11-year-old, the prospect of integrating into a new community was daunting, considering my family had no existing ties here. However, I was beaming with excitement for the fresh opportunities that Dublin promised.

Today, having formed enduring friendships and cherished memories, from sunny days at the Wave to tranquil evenings at Fallon Sports Park, I am deeply rooted in Dublin's vibrant culture. Motivated by the Hindu principle of giving back to one's community, I am compelled to engage actively with Dublin's local aﬀairs. Joining the City of Dublin Parks and Services Commission presents an avenue for me to participate meaningfully in community initiatives, contribute to decision-making processes, and address issues aﬀecting our youth and broader populace. Serving on the Dublin Parks and Community Services Commission will enable me to represent the diverse perspectives, concerns, and aspirations of Dublin's youth demographic. My position as a Santa Clara University Young Scholar and University of Notre Dame Global Scholar, has instilled in me a profound commitment to service. By amalgamating the values of service inherent in these programs with Dublin's ethos of diversity and inclusion, I aspire to create a synergy that uplifts our community. As a member of the Parks and Services Commission, I recognize the pivotal role that parks and recreational facilities play in fostering community cohesion and spirit. Through my engagement with Dublin Parks & Community Services Commission, I aim to contribute to the enhancement and accessibility of our parks and services, ensuring they cater to the evolving needs of our diverse community. I am eager to leverage my experiences and insights to actively participate in shaping the future of Dublin, amplifying the voices of our youth, and making substantive contributions to our society.

By collaborating with fellow youth leaders, local oﬃcials, and community advocates, I am conﬁdent in our collective ability to enact positive change. In joining Dublin Parks and Community Services Commission, I anticipate not only creating a tangible impact within my community but also gaining invaluable knowledge about local government processes, policy-making, and community development. This opportunity aligns with my aspirations to foster a sense of pride and civic responsibility within myself, as I continue my career of service and engagement.

What is the most important contribution you can make to the Commission? * As an aspiring member of the Parks and Services Commission, I am acutely aware of the diverse set of skills required for eﬀective participation and meaningful contributions to the council. Drawing from my experiences as a Santa Clara University Young Scholar, I am equipped with leadership qualities essential for ensuring the success of initiatives aimed at positively impacting communities. Under the mentorship of Dr. Cameron-Loyd, I have explored economic initiatives to address educational disparities in Santa Clara County, reﬂecting the Jesuit values of service to the disadvantaged. This commitment led me to become the ﬁrst and only high schooler involved in Santa Clara University's Community Action Program (SCCAP), where I have been actively involved in organizing events and activities aimed at supporting the most vulnerable members of the Santa Clara community. Furthermore, my leadership roles within Dublin High School, including Vice- President of the Artiﬁcial Intelligence Club, Vice-President of the Technology Student Association Club, and Director of Finance for Dublin DECA, have honed my skills in ﬁnancial management, teamwork, and time management. As Director of Finance for Dublin DECA, I would be tasked with managing all the monetary funds that Dublin DECA accumulates and properly allocating these costs to ensure that the funds are not misused. Fortunately, this year Dublin DECA was able to send 15 students–including myself– to the prestigious DECA International Career Development Conference with the chapter able to oﬀer a $300 travel scholarship to each of the qualiﬁers. These experiences have enabled me to eﬀectively prioritize tasks and meet deadlines while balancing rigorous academic commitments and athletic pursuits. Moreover, my understanding and embrace of diversity, gained from living in Dublin, a community with residents hailing from across the nation and world, indicate my readiness and desire to contribute to the Parks and Services Commission. I recognize that Dublin's greatest strength lies in its interconnectedness of various cultures, and I am committed to ensuring that the commission's initiatives reﬂect and cater to the diverse needs and perspectives of our community.

What knowledge do you have of the parks and recreational facilities in Dublin? * The city of Dublin is fortunate to boast a variety of parks and recreational facilities that cater to the diverse interests of Dublin residents. As an avid athlete participating in cross country and track, these parks play a pivotal role in my training regimen, oﬀering diverse terrains and scene routes to enjoy the natural beauty within Dublin. Fallon Sports Park remains the cornerstone of my training and has been the setting of countless memories I have made with friends. The park's soccer ﬁelds double as cross country courses, providing challenging terrain for hill repeats, and challenging fartlek runs. Furthermore, the park's scenic trails and open spaces provide a serene backdrop for long runs, allowing me to immerse myself in nature while building endurance and mental toughness. Alamo Creek park is the epitome of my passion the running, with its diverse terrain, sprawling background, and its quiet creek. As I navigate the park's scenic paths and steep inclines, I hone Attachment 2
514
my endurance, power, and resilience, preparing myself for the demands of cross country and track competition. Moreover, the park's breathtaking vistas and tranquil surroundings oﬀer moments of self-reﬂection, rejuvenating my mind and spirit. Additionally, I have fond memories of the group mental and physical battles my cross country team and I had while participating in a diﬃcult workout at Don Biddle Park. Coming out of the strenuous workouts at Don Biddle instilled a sense of camaraderie and teamwork as I grew closer to my teammates.

Engaging in mental training at parks not only enhances athletic performance but also cultivates essential qualities and skills that are transferable to leadership roles, such as those on the Dublin Parks and Services Commission. The resilience required for running translates directly to leadership, where the ability to persevere in the face of obstacles and setbacks is essential for navigating complex issues and achieving long-term goals. The mental training in parks instills a sense of discipline and self-motivation, as athletes must adhere to training schedules, set ambitious goals, and hold accountability for their actions. This self-discipline is integral to leadership, where the ability to set goals manage time eﬀectively and follow through on commitments is paramount for driving initiatives forward What knowledge do you have of the programs offered through the Parks and Community Services Department? Have you ever participated in a program (such as Dublin LEAD, Youth Advisory Committee - YAC) or class offered by the Parks and Community Services Department?
*
My most recent participation in a program oﬀered by the Parks and Community Services department would be the Teen Job & Career Fair at San Ramon Senior Center. This event not only provided invaluable opportunities for teenagers like myself but also underscored the commission's unwavering commitment to supporting the youth in our community. As a participant, I was impressed and exhilarated by the diverse range of businesses and organizations present. By facilitating meaningful interactions between teenagers and local employers, the event empowered me to take proactive steps towards our future career aspirations. Through my involvement, I am committed to advocating for initiatives that promote youth engagement, expand opportunities for professional development, and enhance the overall quality of life for teenagers in our community. I am passionate about leveraging my role as a student representative to ensure that the voices and needs of young people are heard and prioritized in decision-making processes.

What school and/or extracurricular activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2024-2025 school year, and will you be able to regularly attend the monthly meetings? * I am grateful for the welcoming environment that Dublin introduced me to, and will certainly be able to devote the necessary time each month to attack Dublin YAC meetings and organize Dublin YAC activities.

Applications must be submitted no later than
Friday, March 29, 2024, at 5:00 p.m.

For questions, please contact the Parks and Community Service's Department at (925) 556-4500 or [email protected] Attachment 2
515
March 25, 2024
To Whom It May Concern:

If I were looking for a bright young STEM student in a community service role, I would seek out Satvik Reddy Marthi. He is a very talented and adaptable student who will complement any organization he wishes to join. Please contact me at if I can answer any further questions about Satvik’s qualifications. www.dublinusd.org/dhs
Attachment 2
516
Student Representative to the Parks
and Community Services Commission
2024-25 Term Application
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 2024-2025 term, which runs from July 1, 2024 to June 30, 2025. Application deadline is Friday, March 29, 2024, at 5:00 PM. LATE APPLICATIONS WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED.

Youth Advisory Committee Bylaws and Rules of Procedure govern the meetings and activities.

To browse past Agendas and Minutes for the Commission, visit the City's Online Records Portal.

Student Representative Information Letter
Please acknowledge that you have downloaded and read the Student Representative Information Letter regarding regular meeting dates, and other commitments required of the Student Representative. * Yes
Date Time*
3/28/2024
First Name *
Rishika
Last Name *
Singh
Address *
Street Address
Address Line 2
City
Dublin
State/Province/Region
California
Postal/Zip Code
94568
Country
United States
Phone (Primary) * Phone (Secondary)
E-mail - Please do not use a DUSD email *
What high school are you currently attending? *
Dublin High School
What high school will you be attending in the 2024-2025 school year? * Dublin High School
What grade (Junior or Senior only) will you be during the 2024-2025 school year? * Attachment 2
517
Junior
Application Questions
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.

Rishika LOR - Google Docs.pdf 191.02KB
Rishika Signh.pdf 14.6KB
Teachers, counselors, and coaches can email the letter of recommendation directly to [email protected] by March 29, 2024 by 5:00 pm.

Why are you interested in serving on the Parks and Community Services Commission? * I enjoy and love the Dublin activities I feel so grateful to attend. I feel excited every time I see the Saint Patricks Day parade, or I overhear a group of friends talking about attending Splatter. My love for these events extends not only to attending them, but to planning and executing them. I would love to help decide how these events will go, from the times to the logistics, everything seems important. I am passionate about proper execution of ideas, and I would love to use that love in such a positive and fun way.

What is the most important contribution you can make to the Commission? * As a student representative, my job is to present factual and useful information to the Parks and Community Service committee. I am a messenger, sharing updates and plans to both committees, and I am helping give my input as to what should happen. The most valuable thing I can give is honest, truthful input that will help guide the Committee to make the best choice to help beneﬁt Dublin residents. This responsibility is not taken lightly, and I make it my mission to help both committees help each other through honest and open communication. This mindset will ultimately be the best thing for Dublin residents and their services.

What knowledge do you have of the parks and recreational facilities in Dublin? * I have a deep knowledge about the facilities in Dublin. Having both visited the facilities, and looked over the agendas for planning out the events hosted in said facilities, I know a fair amount about the services Dublin provides. I am a volunteer and teen advisor at the library, which I visit close to twice every week. I also attend the parades, farmer markets, and festivals Dublin hosts. All of these events are known, loved, and cherished by me. I am excited to give my input on these events next year.

This also helps alert me of any events that are being planned by the Parks and Community Services Department. My knowledge of these programs has grown a lot in the last year, as a library volunteer and as a member of YAC. I have loved the events that been planned and hosted, and I would love to be executing these plans next year.

What school and/or extracurricular activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2024-2025 school year, and will you be able to regularly attend the monthly meetings? * Next year, I will be on Varsity Sideline and Stunt Cheer. I have always loved cheering, and I will continue to be on the Varsity cheer teams next year. I will also be executing a research project, interviewing diﬀerent adults in my life about a range of topics, from parenting to education, job hunting, love, and taxes. This research will be required on audio and will then be published as part of a research paper. My priorities next year will be to maintain straight A's, do great on both cheer teams, produce the best research for my project, and to be an active and involved member of YAC. I will be making YAC a priority, and giving ample time and eﬀort to make sure I contribute everything I can to make YAC a success.

Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting?* No
If yes, what was the meeting date and outcome
of the item(s) you were interested in? I attended a YAC meeting as a member.

Attachment 2
518
A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Applications must be submitted no later than
Friday, March 29, 2024, at 5:00 p.m.

For questions, please contact the Parks and Community Service's Department at (925) 556-4500 or [email protected] Attachment 2
519
March 29, 2023
To Whom It May Concern,
I am writing to recommend Rishika Singh for her exceptional qualities and contributions to our school community. As her French teacher, I have had the pleasure of witnessing Rishika's maturity, dedication, and passion for making a difference.

Sincerely,
Valerie Jacob-Bohart
French Teacher
DHS
Attachment 2
520
To whom it may concern.

Re: Letter of recommendation for Rishika Singh, Youth Advisory Committee.

Regards
Raj Ramchandani.

Math Department.

Attachment 2
521
Student Representative to the Parks
and Community Services Commission
2024-25 Term Application
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 2024-2025 term, which runs from July 1, 2024 to June 30, 2025. Application deadline is Friday, March 29, 2024, at 5:00 PM. LATE APPLICATIONS WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED.

Youth Advisory Committee Bylaws and Rules of Procedure govern the meetings and activities.

To browse past Agendas and Minutes for the Commission, visit the City's Online Records Portal.

Student Representative Information Letter
Please acknowledge that you have downloaded and read the Student Representative Information Letter regarding regular meeting dates, and other commitments required of the Student Representative. * Yes
Date Time*
3/27/2024
First Name *
Ronak
Last Name *
Shrawagi
Address *
Street Address
Address Line 2
City
DUBLIN
State/Province/Region
CA
Postal/Zip Code
94568
Country
United States
Phone (Primary) * Phone (Secondary)
E-mail - Please do not use a DUSD email *
What high school are you currently attending? *
Dougherty Valley High School
What high school will you be attending in the 2024-2025 school year? * Dougherty Valley High School
What grade (Junior or Senior only) will you be during the 2024-2025 school year? * Attachment 2
522
11 (Junior)
Application Questions
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.

AURUM-Ronak - March 2024.doc.pdf 222.55KB
Earl Anthony's Dublin Bowl Recommendation Letter.docx.pdf 42.82KB 2024 Ronak CourAGE TTT Permission Letter.docx.pdf 377.46KB Teachers, counselors, and coaches can email the letter of recommendation directly to [email protected] by March 29, 2024 by 5:00 pm.

Why are you interested in serving on the Parks and Community Services Commission? * I am passionate and enthusiastic about actively participating in my community to help make it better through Parks and Community Services.

Parks provide opportunities for physical activity, recreation, and relaxation, essential for promoting overall health and well-being. They improve the quality of life in communities by giving residents access to nature, scenic beauty, and recreational amenities. They also contribute to a higher standard of living, making neighborhoods more appealing and desirable places to live. I feel responsible for contributing to the welfare of our community by working together with representatives and community leaders to achieve common goals and objectives.

What is the most important contribution you can make to the Commission? * I strongly believe that my fresh perspective, creativity, and dedication can make a valuable contribution to the Commission. I am committed to actively engaging in discussions and collaborating eﬀectively with fellow members to address the challenges and opportunities facing our community. As an active member of CourAGE, I have strong leadership qualities and have made a signiﬁcant impact by hosting webinars and training students on the harmful eﬀects of alcohol and tobacco use. I am passionate and determined to make a positive impact on our community. I am conﬁdent that I can make signiﬁcant contributions towards the Commission's goals of promoting the well-being and prosperity of our community.

What knowledge do you have of the parks and recreational facilities in Dublin? * I am very familiar with the parks, trails, and recreational facilities in Dublin as I have lived here for over ﬁve years. I have attended various events such as the St. Patrick's Day Parade, Splatter, and more. I know about the amenities oﬀered at each park and recreational facilities, such as playgrounds, sports ﬁelds, picnic areas, walking trails, dog parks, and community centers. A new park is being built close to where I live, and I believe I can contribute a lot to its development. I also understand the importance of partnerships with other organizations, businesses, schools, and community groups in enhancing parks and recreational opportunities.

What school and/or extracurricular activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2024-2025 school year, and will you be able to regularly attend the monthly meetings? * I will be participating in the CourAGE Youth Health Coalition in Contra Costa County, which meets once a month. Additionally, I have a part- time job that only requires me to work on weekends. I am eager to commit myself to the Parks and Community Services Commission by attending as many meetings and events as possible.

Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting?* Attachment 2
523
No
If yes, what was the meeting date and outcome
A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Applications must be submitted no later than
Friday, March 29, 2024, at 5:00 p.m.

For questions, please contact the Parks and Community Service's Department at (925) 556-4500 or [email protected] Attachment 2
524
February 7, 2024
T o Whom It May Concern:

Ronak Shrawagi is a member of the Contra Costa County Youth Health Coalition, CourAGE, which is a youth-led and directed group that plays a leadership role in addressing health-related issues. Youth members develop skills that empower them to create healthy environments through awareness and advocacy projects.

The group is supported through a partnership between the Contra Costa County Office of Education and Bay Area Community Resources.

CourAGE members have been accepted to facilitate a workshop at the Teens Tackle Tobacco (TTT) Conference hosted by Alameda County on Tuesday, March 5 from 8:00 - 2:30 p.m. We are requesting that Ronak be cleared to participate as a facilitator during these times.

Although we strive not to interfere with the school day, this is an amazing opportunity for these young people. Our coalition members understand that they will need to work with their teachers to make up any work missed.

I want to thank you for supporting CourAGE in their efforts to improve themselves, their schools, and their communities!
If you have any questions, I can be reached by phone at or by e-mail at
Thank you,
Derrick Kirk, Youth Development Specialist
Contra Costa County Office of Education
Attachment 2
525
Aurum Equity Partners

Pleasanton, CA 94566 USA

To whomsoever it may concern.

Dear Sir/Madam,

Please do not hesitate to reach out to me if you require any further information regarding Ronak's qualifications and experiences.

Sincerely,

Venkat Bussa
CEO & Chairman
Aurum Equity Partners

Attachment 2
526

STAFF REPORT

CITY COUNCIL

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Dublin City CouncilMay 21, 2024

Dublin City Council
May 21, 2024