Halifax County commissioners will begin a new program designed to help high school students get a taste of county government.
Commissioner Gary Redding presented the Halifax County Junior County Commissioners Club to his fellow board members Monday.
And in an unanimous vote on a motion by Jimmie Silver, along with a budget allocation of $1,200, the program was born.
Redding said he would develop the application for the program during the summer.
It is expected the pilot program will be a partnership between the board and Halifax County 4-H and is designed, Redding said in an outline, “to engage high school students in civic education, leadership development, and community service.”
Two students from each high school — both public, private, and charter — will be selected, based on principal and superintendent recommendations, to shadow county leaders and gain firsthand experience in local government.
Redding and a designated 4-H official will serve as program advisors to provide guidance, mentorship, and support throughout the initiative.
“The Halifax County Junior County Commissioners Club is a pilot leadership initiative designed to engage high school students across Halifax County in local government, civic responsibility, and community service,” Redding said in the outline. “This program offers students a unique opportunity to learn firsthand how county government operates by observing board meetings, shadowing local officials, and participating in meaningful service projects.”
The end goal, he noted, is to help students develop a deeper understanding of public policy, leadership, and the role of local government in everyday life.
The club will be open to 26 high school students in Halifax County — grades 9-12 — who maintain a minimum 2.5 GPA and demonstrate a strong interest in civic leadership.
Two students from each high school will be selected to participate, based on the joint recommendation of their school principal and district superintendent. “With limited enrollment to ensure mentorship and depth of experience, this initiative is designed to inspire the next generation of local leaders while strengthening the connection between youth and county government,” he wrote.
To apply, students must submit an application and one letter of recommendation.
Once selected, members are expected to actively participate by attending at least two of the four scheduled activities each semester. Each student will receive a membership card.
As part of the Junior County Commissioners Club, students will participate in a variety of hands-on activities designed to promote civic engagement, leadership, and real-world learning. These experiences will connect students directly with local government and their communities. Activities include:
Attending Halifax County Commissioners meetings, most likely the 5:30 p.m. meeting, to observe, take notes, and participate in the public comment section.
Shadowing local government officials such as county commissioners, the county manager, and department heads.
Organizing youth-led civic initiatives to encourage voting, promote awareness of elections, and increase youth civic participation.
Volunteering at local organizations including food banks, senior centers, and other community-based programs.
Learning about budgeting, decision-making, and policy-making through experiential activities that simulate real government processes.
Participating in structured debates on community issues to practice public speaking, problem-solving, and collaborative leadership.
“This proposal presents an exciting opportunity to inspire the next generation of leaders through a potential partnership between the Halifax County Board of Commissioners and Halifax County 4-H,” Redding wrote in the proposal. “Proposed to launch in fall 2025, the Junior County Commissioners Club will empower students to engage in local government, build leadership skills, and make a meaningful impact in their communities.”
“I think Commissioner Redding did a great job,” board Chair Vernon Bryant said.
Said Commissioner Chenoa Richardson-Davis: “I’m willing to help and serve as an advisor.”
