Press Release:
The Montgomery County Commissioners announced today that applications are now open for the inaugural Montgomery County Junior Commissioner Program, a new opportunity that will give high school students an inside look at county government and public service.
Three high school students will be selected to serve alongside the Montgomery County Board of Commissioners during the 2026–2027 school year. Junior Commissioners will participate in structured learning experiences, site visits, and County meetings, gaining firsthand exposure to how local government works and how decisions are made.
“This program started as an idea to create a welcoming pathway for young people who want to serve their community but don’t know where to begin,” said Jamila Winder, Chair of the Montgomery County Board of Commissioners. “I started my own journey as a student representative on the Norristown Area School Board and later served on that same Board as an adult, so I know how powerful these opportunities can be. I’m so proud that we were able to bring a new vision to life and established it in the Commissioners’ Office for the first time.”
As part of the program, students will complete a capstone project addressing a real-world government issue, working closely with County leadership. Participants will present their projects at the conclusion of the program.
“In high school, juniors and seniors are learning about the Constitution, civil rights, and how government works. Now, they’ll have a hands-on opportunity to see how their textbooks translate to real life,” said Neil Makhija, Montgomery County Commissioner. “Fortunately for them, we’re creating an experience that is more West Wing than The Apprentice, but with a lot less drama.”
Participants will gain insight into core government operations, build relationships with civic and elected leaders, and develop leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills. The program aims to inspire students to become engaged, effective changemakers in their communities and to consider future careers in public service.
“Nothing compares to getting a front-row seat to all the things that make County government run,” said Tom DiBello, Montgomery County Commissioner. “These future Junior Commissioners will get a real look at the business side of our work and see how decisions are formed.”
- Eligibility: Rising juniors and seniors in Montgomery County. Applicants must be County residents and maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0.
- Program Period: September 2026 – April 2027
- Session Schedule: Sessions will be held approximately every two weeks and aligned with the Montgomery County Board of Commissioners meeting schedule. Most sessions will take place during the school day, with occasional additional commitments. A finalized calendar will be shared with selected students.
- Transportation: Participants are responsible for their own transportation to and from all program activities.
- Compensation: Each student will receive a $500 travel stipend.
- Application Deadline: Sunday, May 10, 2026, at 11:59 p.m.
Students interested in applying can visit www.montgomerycountypa.gov/juniorcommissioner.
For more information, please contact Montgomery County Human Resources at 610-278-3052 or CountyHR@montgomerycountypa.gov.
Media Contact: Megan Alt, megan.alt@montgomerycountypa.gov
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