Student Programs
Council Recognition Program & Awards
Each year, OASC hosts the Council Recognition Program, also known as the Council Awards, to recognize councils and schools for their dedication to serving, learning, investing, and growing within their school communities. We are proud of the work Oregon’s youth leaders are doing and grateful for the opportunity to highlight outstanding programs and initiatives across the state. More than an award, this process encourages reflection, intentional planning, and continuous growth in student leadership programs, serving as both a goal-setting and evaluation tool for advisors and student leaders while providing OASC a way to formally celebrate member schools. We encourage students to apply not merely for recognition, but for the learning that occurs throughout the application process, including:
Reflecting on their purpose,
Articulating the impact of their work,
Practicing documentation and self-assessment skills, and
Taking pride in their collective achievements.
The process is designed to be fully student-led and student-generated, with guidance and support from advisors, giving students the opportunity to take ownership of their work, collaborate as a team, and close the year with intentionality. By engaging in this process, students develop critical leadership skills, strengthen their programs, and create a meaningful record of their contributions to their schools and communities.
Please see below for more information, details, and links to the application template.
Applications for the 2025-2026 Council Recognition Program are now open! Applications are due by no later than 5:00 pm on Friday, April 3, 2026.
High School Application Instructions, Info, and Materials:
Mid-Level Application Instructions, Info, and Materials:
Student Executive Council (SEC)
The OASC Student Executive Council is a group of 11 high school students elected by member schools to represent their respective region. 1 middle school representative is also appointed to this council to ensure our mid-level voices are being heard. These students serve a one year term from November-November and are elected annually at Fall Conference, working with adult leadership throughout the year to run board meetings, plan events, and be the student voice for OASC.
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This is an opportunity to take leadership to the next level. Students wishing to run for Student Executive Council should be self-directed, responsible individuals who follow-through with commitments they make. They must also be very positive role models, since this is a highly visible position throughout the state. SEC members must attend four Board meetings each year (including the preceding SEC retreat), OASC Fall and Spring Conferences, and must attend OASC Summer Camp. Other commitments include membership outreach, OASC newsletter contributions, helping out at regional workshops in your area, and frequent communication with members of the Board. If you are chosen to run for a position at Fall Conference, you, your leadership advisor, and leadership students at your school are required to attend Fall Conference to help support your campaign.
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All applicants must be from a current OASC member school or a school that becomes a member school before the Fall Conference of their election. Sophomores or juniors may apply for the Regional Representative positions, juniors may apply for OASC President, and eighth graders may apply for Mid-Level Representative. If elected as a sophomore, students have the option of running for a second term, either as a Regional Representative or as State President. Mid-Level Representatives may run for a second term when they are sophomores as a Regional Representative, and for a second or third term when they are juniors as a Regional Representative or State President.
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Please note as stated in the OASC constitution: “A student on the OASC Student Executive Council shall serve a one year term. They will be elected at Fall Conference, take office immediately, and serve until the following Fall Conference.”
Applications for the 2026-27 Student Executive Council will be available in August/September, 2026! Check back for more details!
Capitol Ambassadors Program (CAP)
The OASC Capitol Ambassadors Program is an innovative, first-of-its-kind program that engages high school students in politics and public policy. This is an exciting opportunity for high school student leaders across Oregon to gain firsthand experience, connect with other student leaders, and develop real-world skills. OASC CAP is perfect for any student passionate about making a difference and interested in becoming a stronger leader.
The year-long program will introduce students to the state legislature and connect them with other students, elected leaders, and public officials from all over the state. There will be field trips, webinars, workshops, and more. Over the last six years, CAP students visited the State Capitol, met with Governor Brown and leaders of the Department of Education, interviewed legislators, learned how to build compelling resumes and cover letters, and testified before the House Education Committee on the student perspective in education policy.
We will select a group of 30 to 40 students to be members of the seventh class of OASC Capitol Ambassadors Program; we are looking for high school students of all ages, from all over Oregon, and with all kinds of backgrounds and interests. They will represent OASC and their peers from across the state. New and returning students are welcome to apply. This program is completely non-partisan and students of all belief systems are welcome.
The Capitol Ambassadors Program is currently on a temporary pause. Please check back soon for updates and additional information.