March 04, 2026 – Friday Harbor
Contact: Clinton Gauthier, San Juan County 4‑H Program Coordinator
For Immediate Release
San Juan County 4‑H delegates spent Presidents’ Day weekend in Olympia, WA, participating in the annual 4‑H Know Your Government (KYG) Conference. This year’s statewide civic education event focused on the Legislative System, giving teens an immersive opportunity to learn how ideas move through Washington’s lawmaking process.
The San Juan County delegation included five teens from Orcas and San Juan Island, accompanied by one adult volunteer. Prior to the conference, delegates prepared by learning the fundamentals of the legislative process. Once in Olympia, they joined youth from across Washington to review bills, testify in committee hearings, propose amendments, and debate legislation in full mock House and Senate sessions.
San Juan County’s mixed‑county bill team drafted a proposal addressing Artificial Intelligence policy, exploring issues related to technology ethics, data privacy, public safety, and future workforce impacts. Through the process, teens gained a deeper understanding of how legislation is shaped through committee testimony, negotiation, and floor debate.
A highlight of the trip included a visit to the Washington State Capitol, where delegates met with local lawmakers to discuss their bill work, ask questions about public service, and learn more about representing rural communities in state government. Delegates also toured the Legislative Building and connected with youth from across Washington during workshops and group sessions.
“San Juan County youth have truly cemented themselves as mainstays at the KYG conference,” said Clinton Gauthier, San Juan County 4‑H Coordinator and KYG Event Coordinator. “Seeing new and returning San Juan County youth step up as leaders in their small groups this year was incredibly rewarding as county staff.”
San Juan County 4‑H extends gratitude to the San Juan County Leaders’ Council, community donors, and supporters who helped make this learning experience possible. Their contributions ensure that island youth continue to have access to transformative civic leadership opportunities.
Next year’s KYG Conference theme is still being drafted and reviewed as part of the program’s four‑year rotating curriculum. Teens in grades 9–12 interested in participating are encouraged to contact Clinton Gauthier at the WSU Extension office for more information.
4‑H is the nation’s largest youth development organization, empowering young people with essential life and leadership skills. San Juan County 4‑H provides hands‑on learning experiences that encourage responsibility, civic engagement, and community connection.
