BURLINGTON — University of Vermont Extension 4-H is seeking high school students who are interested in taking on a leadership role to develop science programs and/or organize an environmental summit for their peers during the next school year.

Two opportunities are available, each with an application deadline of June 1. Anyone who is entering Grade 9-12 in the fall is eligible to apply for one or both programs.

Details and links to applications are available at www.uvm.edu/extension/youth/announcements. Membership in 4-H is not required.

High school students with a passion for science and interest in teaching about various science and technology topics are invited to apply to be a 4-H Science Ambassador. They will take the lead on planning and implementing eight or nine VTeen Science Cafés, which are informal, interactive programs for teens on a diverse range of topics led by STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) experts.

In addition, they will organize Science Fun Days to educate and excite younger youths about science. Training will be provided on STEM topics in preparation to lead hands-on activities at these events.

Ambassadors will be expected to attend monthly Zoom planning meetings, contribute ideas and help with planning, set up and promotion for events. In addition to having an opportunity to interact closely with scientists, they will hone their leadership, communication, problem-solving and other life skills, while building their resumes for employment, college and scholarship opportunities.

High school students interested in the environment may apply to be a Teen Leader for the Youth Environmental Summit (known as “YES!”) this fall. The annual event is designed to engage middle and high school students and help them find their voice and take action on environmental issues. The summit offers workshops, forums and opportunities to network with environmental leaders and other students to share ideas and propose solutions for local and global environmental concerns.

YES! Teen Leaders must be available over the summer to help plan this event and be willing to take a leadership role at the event.

With questions about either opportunity, contact Lauren Traister, UVM Extension 4-H Teen and Leadership Program coordinator, at [email protected] or (802) 656-7565.