WVHS Youth in Government Program wins top honor at County Service Day

The Warwick Valley High School Youth in Government Program won the top honors as the best program and received the Distinction of Merit for Outstanding Student Achievement trophy recently at the County Service Day luncheon.

The Youth in Government Program is more than a club. It takes place in most Orange County high schools (12 total). The program has three main events that aim to recreate the political processes for participating students. Orange County Service Day, which is the final planned event of the year, took place on April 20th. Students that won mock offices from the program’s general election are automatically invited and several other students are asked to join and attend meetings at our county government offices, to honor the great effort that they have put forward with regards to our program.

Outside of Orange County Service Day, the program had several students win state-mock positions in the general election, in which they’re invited to meet state representatives in Albany this coming May. Olivia Holland won NYS Attorney General and Lena Jodry won NYS Assemblywoman. Since last year’s trip was canceled due to COVID, Warwick’s winners (Jonah Campbell- NYS Attorney General) and (Sean Moroney Congressman) are also invited to join this year’s Albany trip.

Leila Morris, Robert Morris, Liam Kevins, Tanya Sinha (winner of OC Judge position), Michael Kelly, Paxton Honerkamp and Christian Katsabanis were Warwick’s representatives. They represented the school and district with dignity. The program totals nearly 30 students. 

The students were presented with the trophy, which Minisink Valley won last year, at the end of the luncheon. The luncheon started with Liam singing the National Anthem.

“It was extraordinary to observe these bright leaders as they networked with government officials inquiring about local issues, community service hours and internship opportunities,” program advisor Kevan Ottochian said.  “I am very grateful to OU BOCES, Orange County Government officials and the Orange County Youth Bureau for organizing and hosting our future leaders. The students are very appreciative for the opportunity to attend, which further fueled their passion for public service. The future is bright because of them.”

Throughout the entire Youth in Government calendar, the WVHS program was on full display as the students worked professionally and represented the district with distinction.

“I am so proud to have the opportunity to lead this exceptional group of leaders,” Mr. Ottochian said.” This wouldn’t be possible without the support of WVCSD, the Board of Education and the WVHS administration. Their continued assistance will help us grow the program and work hard to ensure the Distinction of Merit for Outstanding Student Achievement trophy permanently resides in our school.”