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During the mid-February YMCA Youth & Government (YAG) 2025 conference at the Raleigh Convention Center, Central Carolina Academy’s delegation made an impressive impact in both the legislative and judicial branches of the program. The Central Carolina Academy delegation included Reagan Cameron, Mason Edwards, Sara Forte, Bailey Hilton, Piper Laverentz, Lily Liles, Avery McFarland, and Jude Stumpf. The students dedicated months to researching, drafting, and refining bills to present at the Youth & Government conference. Their efforts resulted in all three bills advancing beyond the initial committee stage.
Legislative Success
The bills presented by the CCA delegation included:
- Proposed changing the state gemstone from Emerald to Hedonite. The bill successfully moved out of committee and advanced into the second round of presentations. (Bailey Hilton and Mason Edwards)
- Advocated for adding instructions on how to use an EpiPen and an AED to North Carolina’s high school healthful living standards. The bill also made it out of committee and into the second round of presentations. (Lily Liles, Avery McFarland and Piper Laverentz)
- Proposed requiring all NC public school teachers to be CPR-certified. This bill successfully passed through all four rounds of presentations and was ultimately recognized as law within the Youth Legislature. (Sara Forte and Reagan Cameron)
Mock Trial Excellence
Jude Stumpf represented Central Carolina Academy in the highly competitive Mock Trial component of YAG. After months of preparation with his team and coach, Jude helped present two cases, leading his team to victory in the prestigious All-Stars round. His exceptional performance earned him the title of Model Attorney, a top honor in the program. In addition to this remarkable achievement, Jude’s recognition as Model Attorney for the Conference also earned him a spot on the 2026 YAG Officer Team, highlighting his dedication and leadership skills.
Understanding the Bill Process
Students researched and wrote a bill throughout the school year that was submitted for presentation at the conference. The process follows real-world legislative procedures:
- Committee Stage: Students present their bills, answer questions, and engage in debates. Only the most well-supported bills advance.
- Chambers of the House and Senate: Bills that pass committee move forward, requiring further presentation and debate.
- Governor’s Cabinet: The final round includes review and approval by Youth & Government leadership, simulating real-world passage into law.
For a bill to be officially recognized as passed by the NC Youth Legislature, it must be presented successfully four times. This year, Central Carolina Academy had all three bills make it through the first round, with one ultimately passing into law.
A Bright Future for Youth Leadership
The YMCA Youth & Government program continues to be an invaluable opportunity for students to engage in civic leadership, learn about government processes, and develop critical public speaking and debate skills. The outstanding performance of Central Carolina Academy’s delegation highlights their dedication, intellect, and leadership potential. In addition, three other YAG chapter members, Michael, DiFede, Jordan Egbert, and Tanner Reichel, did not participate in the state competition, but made important contributions during the preparation process for the bills. Faculty advisor Tracy Jones, a former YAG participant, has worked tirelessly throughout the year to prepare the CCA delegates. Her dedication and commitment have been instrumental in creating the state level opportunity for Central Carolina Academy students.
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