The Collin County Commissioners Court meeting on June 23, 2025, featured a presentation from students advocating for increased political engagement among their peers. William Peters and Aiden Lay, representatives from the organization Politics for Teens at Plano West Senior High School, addressed the court to discuss their efforts to raise awareness about local government and encourage voter participation among high school students.

Peters highlighted the lack of interest in local politics among their peers, noting that many students are unaware of the functions of the county government. He emphasized the importance of fostering a culture of political involvement, especially as many students will soon be eligible to vote. The organization aims to make politics more accessible and engaging for young people, countering the often divisive nature of political discourse.

The students provided a handout detailing their initiatives, which include presentations on various political issues followed by debates to encourage critical thinking and discussion. They pointed out the low voter turnout in local elections, citing that only 20,000 ballots were cast in the recent Plano City Council election, despite a population of nearly 300,000.

Peters also expressed a desire for local officials to engage directly with students, suggesting that representatives could attend school events to share their insights and answer questions. The students concluded their presentation by inviting the commissioners to collaborate with them in their mission to enhance political awareness and participation among youth.

The commissioners commended the students for their initiative and engagement, acknowledging the importance of involving younger generations in the political process. Following the presentation, the meeting transitioned to the Toll Road Authority meeting, marking a shift in focus for the court.