Junior Deputy Clerk program returns this summer
Published on May 20, 2025
After a successful pilot in 2024, Village Clerk Christina M. Waters is bringing back the Village of Oak Park’s Junior Deputy Clerk program this summer. Open to rising 5th – 12th graders, this initiative aims to empower youth through hands-on civic engagement by providing an inside look at municipal government operations and the vital role of the Village Clerk.
“We are excited to continue this meaningful program that not only educates but inspires the next generation of civic leaders,” said Waters. “By engaging youth in the mechanics of local government, we’re planting the seeds for lifelong public involvement and leadership.”
Beginning on Friday, June 6, the program will be held on Fridays in June and July with the exceptions of June 20 and July 4 in observance of Juneteenth and Independence Day, respectively. Each week is limited to a maximum of three participants.
In order to provide a behind-the-scenes look at local governance, the Junior Deputy Clerk Program offers participants an immersive experience in the daily operations of municipal departments. Youth will learn about the essential role of the Village Clerk and engage with leaders including the Village Manager, Deputy Village Manager, and Assistant Village Manager.
Each weekly session spotlights a different department including Law, Finance, Development Services, Public Safety, Health, Communications and Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI). Through tours, mock exercises, and interactive workshops, participants will gain useful knowledge of public service and civic responsibility.
Participants also visit Council Chambers at Village Hall to experience what it’s like to prepare for a Village Board meeting. There will also be an opportunity to have lunch with local legislators.
The program wraps up during the Village Board meeting that is held on the subsequent Tuesday evening. The Junior Deputy Clerks will be formally recognized for their contributions to the community, participate in the official roll call and be awarded a certificate of participation.
Please click here to sign up for a date to participate in the Junior Deputy Clerk program. It is open to students who will be enrolled at in grades 5-12 beginning in fall 2025.
For more information, please call 708.358.5670, email clerk@oak-park.us or visit www.oak-park.us/clerk.
Sign up for Junior Deputy Clerk program
About Oak Park -The Village of Oak Park, located just nine miles west of downtown Chicago, offers a distinctive urban/suburban lifestyle in a thriving, multi-cultural community. Well-known for progressive values, tree-lined streets and bustling business districts, Oak Park serves as an ideal place to live, work and play. As a longstanding community of choice, the Village benefits from convenient access to local and regional transit, high-quality public schools, and arts and cultural attractions, including Frank Lloyd Wright’s home and studio and his acclaimed Unity Temple, which was recently designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site.