State Representative Maurice West's READY Leadership Council Application

READY Leadership Council Application
State Representative Maurice West’s

READY Leadership Council Overview

State Representative Maurice West’s READY Leadership Council is a young adult involvement program in which we are able to Reach and connect with our upcoming leaders, to Expose them to new environments in a field that peaks their interests, And where they can strive to make a difference. Not only does this program assist in Developing connections but it enhances the community involvement of our Youth in every corner of our great Rockford Region.

This Leadership Council takes time, energy, and dedication. If you have made the decision to join the READY Leadership Council that means you are willing to make involvement commitments and work together. Please read the following information to ensure you understand the necessary requirements.

We are happy to invite you to apply to be a part of an active and influential program side by side with State Representative Maurice West and his team!

Important Details

During this program you will experience local greatness with a variety of tours and visits to help you get more involved in our local community and state government as well as figuring out ways to better yourself on your path to excellence. Through this experience you will be involved in your community in positive ways such as working at a variety of community-centric events and being exposed to important organizations and landmarks including a tour of the Illinois State Capitol in Springfield. You will also be gaining experience by taking Zoom and in-person meetings with local leaders where you are able to ask them questions.

This program runs from March 2024 to December 2024 with 15 council members with approximately two to three events each month, typically on Tuesdays and Wednesdays with occasional weekend events. You are expected to attend all required events and will be informed of any optional events.

Requirements for Council Member applicants:
- Must currently be in 10th or 11th grade with interests in local/state government and community involvement
- Must be a resident of the 67th District (You can check here: Illinois State Board of Election Website)
- Complete Application
- GPA (minimum 2.8)
- No school disciplinary violations
- Access to Zoom and student email
- Transportation
  - Transportation will be provided for out-of-town trips only. Council members will need their own transportation for each visit and are required to be on time according to the events itinerary. The events itinerary will be sent out to all council members approximately a week before each event.
- Must be able to do research of the upcoming event/visit and prepare questions and be ready to be involved in group discussions.
- If selected, you must be able to complete an in-person interview.
Complete applications must include:
- Application
- Council Member Contract
- GPA print off from your counselor
  - You may scan and attach a copy of GPA along with application submission. Counselor may also email GPA directly to District Coordinator Anisia Ramos at Anisia@StateRepWest.com
- One-hundred words or less Self-Letter
Interview

After reviewing all applications, selected applicants will then be invited to an in-person interview to further discuss yourself, your goals, and how you would be a good fit for this council. After all interviews are completed, you will be notified of a decision on your application.

Attendance

All required events are expected to be attended. There will be some optional events, in which case you would be informed. Council members are allowed two absences. The second absence will result in an emailed warning. Council members who have more than two absences shall be subject to dismissal for failure to fulfill their duties. Council members should notify District Coordinator Anisia Ramos if needing to be excused for an absence in advance.

Dress code

Please dress in semi-formal office attire for tours and visits. You may wear casual clothing to any outdoor event. No ripped jeans and shoes permitted to the weather. School spirit gear is acceptable on casual outings. If you have any dress code questions, please feel to ask Representative West’s Team.

Costs

Students are not required nor expected to pay for any of the trips or visits that will be taken.

The only funds that would be required would be if the student wishes to purchase any extras while at an event in that instance they will have to pay.

Examples: Gift shop items or extra food or drinks

Trip/Event Necessities
- Arrive on time to the destination
- Dress appropriately
- Transportation to and from the location
- A sacked lunch if needed
- Enthusiasm and eagerness to learn!
Important Upcoming Dates
- Applications will be open January 22nd – February 16th
- Application deadline is Friday, February 16th at 5pm. Applications will not be accepted after the deadline.
- Applicant interviews will be scheduled the week of February 19th. Applicant interviews will be held the week of February 26th.
- All applicants who are selected after their interviews will receive an acceptance email and must confirm attendance to our first meeting by Tuesday, March 12th or will otherwise forfeit their seat.
- The first READY Leadership Council Meeting is Monday, March 18th at 4pm

READY Leadership Council Member Application
Name*

First NameLast Name
Date of Birth*

MonthDayYear
Date
School Name and Academy*
Current GPA (Example: 3.0)*
Current Grade Level*
Student Address*

Street Address

Street Address Line 2

CityState / Province

Postal / Zip Code
Student Phone Number*

Area CodePhone Number
Student Email*
example@example.com
Emergency Contact Name*

First NameLast Name
Emergency Contact Phone Number*

Area CodePhone Number
Emergency Contact Relationship to Student*
List extracurricular activities you are or have been a part of during your time in high school:*
Are you currently employed?*
If so, please answer the following:
Where do you currently work?
How many hours do you work?
Do you have a distinct schedule? If so, what is your schedule?
Do you have any schedule restrictions other than school? If so, please list below:*
Do you understand that being a READY Leadership Council member requires dedication, responsibility, and weekend/after school time? *
Do you understand that you will have to provide transportation to and from all meetings and activities? *
Are you able to have your photo taken and posted to Representative West’s media platforms? *
Please write a self-assessment letter in 100 words or less. Example prompts include: Why should you be chosen to become a Council Member? and Reflect on yourself and your career goals.*
You may scan and attach a copy of GPA here or your Counselor may email your GPA directly to District Coordinator Anisia Ramos at Anisia@StateRepWest.com.
Application due by 5:00pm Friday, February 16th

Applications will not be accepted after the stated date and time above. Only complete applications will be considered.
Student Digital Signature*
Type Name
I do hereby attest that this information is true, accurate and complete to the best of my knowledge and I understand that any falsification, omission, or concealment of material fact may subject me to removal from this program.
Parent/Guardian Digital Signature*
Type Name
I do hereby attest that this information is true, accurate and complete to the best of my knowledge and I understand that any falsification, omission, or concealment of material fact may subject my child to be removed from this program.

READY Leadership Council Member Contract
I promise to maintain a high standard of myself ethically and professionally. I will treat my fellow members with as much respect as I would have for myself. I will be present at all required events, visits, and tours. During these trips I will be active and ready to engage! I am responsible for any posts that may be made on any of my own social media platforms in reference to Representative West, the READY Leadership Council or Representative West’s team. I recognize I can be subject to consequences for posts that do not shine light on myself or my peers. I promise to maintain a 2.8 GPA and continue this school year with no disciplinary violations.

Lastly, I promise to have fun while getting to know the Rockford Region in a different way!
Student Digital Signature*
Type Name
I do hereby attest that this information is true, accurate and complete to the best of my knowledge and I understand that any falsification, omission, or concealment of material fact may subject me to removal from this program.
Parent/Guardian Digital Signature*
Type Name
I do hereby attest that this information is true, accurate and complete to the best of my knowledge and I understand that any falsification, omission, or concealment of material fact may subject my child to be removed from this program.
Should be Empty:

READY Leadership Council Application

READY Leadership Council Member Application

READY Leadership Council Member Contract