Teenagers have been asking for years to teach coding classes at the Pleasanton library or walk seniors through AI and online safety at the Senior Center. The city has never had a way to say yes. A proposal going to the Youth Commission this week would create one.
City staff will ask the commission on Wednesday, Oct. 14, for feedback on a proposed Youth-Led Program Initiative, which would set eligibility rules, a yearly application window and approved locations for high school students who want to offer free programs. The meeting starts at 7 p.m. at the Pleasanton Senior Center, 5353 Sunol Blvd., and will be streamed on the city's YouTube channel.
What young people have asked to do
According to the staff report from Michele Crose, assistant director of Library and Recreation, requests have ranged from coding and tech sessions to mental health programs for young adults. At the Firehouse Arts Center, students have pitched free TED-style talks and concerts. At the Senior Center, ideas have included tech help, sessions on AI, cybersafety training, performances during lunch and game programs.
Right now, the report says, the city has no application process that lets youth groups book a city building for such a program.
Proposed rules
- Presenters must be of high school age, and every speaker in a group must be too.
- Students must live in Pleasanton or go to school in the city.
- Programs must be free, aimed at other young people or older adults, and run no longer than three hours.
- Students cover all costs; the Youth Commission cannot fund programs. Tables, chairs, podiums and projectors may be borrowed where available.
- Each new idea needs its own online application, and vague or incomplete ones may be delayed or denied.
