Nebraska Youth and Government 2026 State Conference

Saturday, March 28th, 2026
8:30am to 4:30pm
YMCA Camp Kitaki, Louisville, Nebraska

A Civic Debate Experience Designed for Speech and Debate Students

The Nebraska Youth and Government (YAG) State Conference gives high school students the chance to participate in a full legislative debate setting. The conference is ideal for students who enjoy policy focused argumentation and who want a new way to develop their public speaking skills.

Every delegate prepares an original bill before the event. During the conference, students debate, amend, and vote on student written legislation in structured parliamentary sessions. Delegates also help elect the next group of Presiding Officers, and many students gain leadership experience as Committee Chairs and Clerks.

Why Speech and Debate Students Enjoy YAG

• Participate in a legislative debate format with strong emphasis on policy

• Earn NSDA points through participation

• No judging obligations required for teams, only one adult chaperone per school

• Build real leadership skills by chairing committees or serving in official roles

Registration and Cost

The participation fee is $50/student, which includes lunch, YAG merch, and all program materials.

Students who face financial barriers are encouraged to apply for full or partial scholarships through the Financial Assistance Application (opens Jan. 12th).

What Nebraska YAG Provides

YAG is simple for coaches to integrate into their programs. Nebraska YAG offers:

• A complete legislative debate curriculum

• Activities and materials that are ready for classroom use

• Bill writing tools and student friendly guides

• Live advisor training sessions

• Student workshops on drafting legislation and effective debate

Scroll down to access forms, deadlines, and the resources needed to help your team prepare.

Key Dates and Deadlines

• Monday, March 2: Registration and Financial Assistance Applications Due

• Monday, March 16: Bills, Payments, Leadership Forms, and Safety and Conduct Forms Due

Registration and Sign Up Forms

(Forms will be posted on the dates listed below.)

• Financial Assistance Application available January 12

• Student Registration Form available January 12

• Adult Registration Form available January 12

• Bill Submission Form available March 2

• Leadership Form available March 2

Program Resources

Resource Drive
This folder contains all materials needed for advisors and students, including:

Advisor Resources

Program Guides, Advisor Guides, and documents that support planning and preparation

Legislative Curriculum

Slides, activities, and instructions that help teach the legislative process

Legislative Resources

Bill writing guides, rules of procedure, examples, and handouts used throughout the program and the conference

Safety and Conduct Forms

Required forms due March 16

Advisor Training Sessions

Each training is a 45 minute live Zoom overview of the program. RSVP here to receive the link.

• January 12 at 6:00pm

• January 27 at 6:00pm

• February 10 at 7:00pm

• February 26 at 7:00pm

Student Training Sessions

Optional workshops for students who want to prepare before the conference. RSVP here to receive the link.

• Bill Drafting Workshop on March 9 at 7:00pm

• Debate Best Practices on March 23 at 7:00pm

If you have questions or if you want your team to join the program, complete the Interest Form or contact:
Jim Welty, Civic Engagement Program Manager
jim@moymca.org