CITY OF INDUSTRY – Three Hacienda La Puente Unified leadership students have been selected for California State Assemblywoman Blanca E. Rubio’s 2023 Young Legislators Program (YLP), which enables 32 high school scholars to become acquainted with the state legislative process, enhance leadership skills and participate in various public service projects.

La Puente High School junior students Josiah Hernandez and Cayden Olvera will join returning YLP fellow Glen A. Wilson High School junior Jonathan Chan and other participants in the six-month program, which runs through June 2023. The program consists of monthly in-person learning sessions where participants collaborate with Rubio’s staff, observe the offices of various community services, and travel to Sacramento to better understand potential careers in politics and public service.

Chan is an active volunteer on campus and in the community, serving as School Site Council vice-chairperson, a Los Angeles County Department of Public Health student ambassador, Volunteer in Defense of Animals member and more.

“This is my second year in this program and I am honored to be back not only as a participant but a mentor, sharing my experiences and encouraging others to actively participate in discussions and activities,” Chan said. “I look forward to working closely with Assemblywoman Rubio’s staff and hope to leave this program with improved leadership and communication skills.”

Hernandez and Olvera are passionate about serving their community and partaking in school leadership positions. Hernandez is President of the La Puente High School’s Health Occupations Students of America organization and an active California Scholarship Federation community service club member.

“As a minority and Mexican immigrant, I am grateful for the opportunity to learn about community laws,” Hernandez said. “The City of La Puente is important to me and I look forward to continuing to find ways to practice good citizenship with the support of this program.”

Olvera is an Associated Student Body member, leader of the varsity football team and contributor to numerous school community events.

“Thank you to my good friend Josiah for applying and supporting me through this process and to the entire La Puente High School family for always encouraging me to pursue my dreams,” Olvera said. “I have already learned so much from the program mentors and my peers and can’t wait to see what Assemblywoman Rubio’s office has in store for us.”

Students were selected following a written application process that focused on students’ leadership experiences and community involvement, skillsets and college and career goals.

The next monthly session will take place on Saturday, March 11, where YLP students will assist Rubio’s staff with a community event, engage in team bonding activities and hear from YLP mentors.

“On behalf of the Board and I, we are thankful to Assemblywoman Rubio for providing this rewarding program to our students and congratulations to our outstanding student leaders and community advocates on being selected for this remarkable opportunity,” Superintendent Dr. Alfonso Jiménez said. “At Hacienda La Puente Unified, we encourage our students to explore all their talents and interests. We look forward to seeing the lasting impact this program will have on our Young Legislators and the value it will bring to our District community.”

PHOTO CAPTIONS:

HLPUSD_YOUNGLEGISLATORS: Assemblywoman Blanco E. Rubio’s staff welcomes the 2023 Young Legislators Program students during the program’s first session in January 2023.