Brearley Students Join Congressional Youth Council

by Katie Lima and Hector Tiru

This year, seniors Katie Lima and Hector Tiru are proud to represent David Brearley High School as members of Congresswoman LaMonica McIver’s Congressional Youth Advisory Council (CYAC). As part of the council, they engage directly with students from across New Jersey’s 10th Congressional District to learn about civic issues and debate public policy. They meet once a month to collaborate on capstone bill proposals and to learn from guest speakers who provide insight into today’s political and social landscape. Currently, CYAC discussions have explored major topics including gun violence, women’s rights, education, immigration, mental health, and artificial intelligence. This experience gives us a unique opportunity to mirror work that happens at the federal level.

As part of the program, students are required to work together to develop bill proposals based on assigned topics. Accordingly, Hector is currently leading a bill proposal focused on expanding opportunities for young women in NJ‑10. The proposed bill advocates for a federally funded initiative that would provide mentorship, policy training, networking opportunities, and access to internships and leadership roles. These opportunities are often difficult for young women to obtain; the goal is to ensure young women in our district have a clear pathway into public service and civic leadership. However, to ensure the proposal reflects the actual needs of young women in NJ‑10, the bill creators have developed a survey to gain a better understanding of what the bill should entail. We encourage students to participate by completing the survey, which will directly shape the final policy proposal presented to Congresswoman McIver. To participate and offer insight into the needs and interests of young women in NJ‑10, please use the following link: https://tinyurl.com/48ef4w5z

Katie, also a senior at David Brearley High School, is a part of the same program and is on a group developing a bill focused on improving mental health support and online well‑being for students. Through their research, the group found that in a typical high school, hundreds of students struggle with anxiety, depression, or feelings of hopelessness, while most schools have only a few counselors or a single psychologist to support them. This stress is even greater in today’s world, where many students worry about issues such as documentation status, national uncertainty, and school safety, including concerns about gun violence. These realities underscore the importance of integrating trained mental health professionals into schools to provide direct support, meaningful outreach, and accessible resources for students who require assistance. The proposal also addresses the role social media plays in shaping student well‑being, especially when constant exposure to negative news and online pressure can increase stress. By advocating for stronger mental health services in schools and more responsible social media guidelines, the group aims to foster a safer, more supportive community where students can learn and thrive.

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