Youth in Government Day Ignites Passion for Public Service among the School's ASB Students

Beverly Hills, CA (March 17, 2025) – On March 17, 2025, Beverly Hills High School Associated Student Body (ASB) members experienced an engaging day at Beverly Hills City Hall, participating in the reinvigorated Youth in Government Day. This event, spearheaded by Mayor Lester Friedman as part of his mayoral initiative, aimed to provide the next generation of student leaders with a firsthand look at the workings of local government.

The day kicked off with a warm welcome from Mayor Friedman, followed by introductions from city council members and various department heads, including the Chief of Police and Fire Chief. Each ASB student was assigned a leadership role, such as Student Mayor, Student City Manager, or Student commissioner, and had the unique opportunity to work alongside their real-world counterparts. Through roundtable discussions with city officials, students gained a deeper understanding of municipal leadership and governance, preparing them to apply this knowledge in the mock city council meeting later in the day.

In two groups, students embarked on informative tours of city departments. Notably, this included the Beverly Hills Police Department’s Real-Time Watch Center, which showcased cutting-edge public safety technology. Students also visited the Beverly Hills Public Library, gaining insights into another vital aspect of municipal operations.

The program culminated in a mock city council meeting, where students assumed their roles, engaging actively in discussions and policy strategizing. This session allowed them to apply their newfound understanding to real-world scenarios, focusing on the logistics and community impact of hosting major global events like the FIFA World Cup 2026 and the 2028 Olympics and Paralympics.

"This event was not just an educational opportunity; it was a chance for our ASB students to envision themselves as the leaders of tomorrow," said BHHS Principal Drew Stewart. "Their proactive participation and the insights they gained today are instrumental in understanding how they can impact their community and embody the spirit of our school's motto, 'Today Well Lived'."

The Youth in Government Day underscores the importance of partnerships between the Beverly Hills Unified School District and the City of Beverly Hills, fostering a collaborative spirit to enrich student education and civic engagement. The district looks forward to continuing to make this inspiring event a lasting tradition, nurturing a deep connection between our students and their community.

View Photos from the Event