Exciting news for local students as the Choctawhatchee Electric Cooperative (CHELCO) has announced its delegates for the 2026 Youth Tour program! This initiative allows talented high school juniors from the area to experience a week-long educational trip to Washington, D.C. The announcement was made on March 5, 2026, and the selected students are gearing up for an unforgettable journey this summer.
The Youth Tour is designed to immerse students in the world of government and civic engagement. This year, four standout students have been chosen to represent CHELCO at the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA) Youth Tour in June. These exceptional delegates include:
- Kaylee Yeakos, Paxton School
- Calie Brackin, Walton High School
- Noah Seeliger, Collegiate High School at Northwest Florida State College
- Rose Weinacker, Niceville High School
Meet the Delegates and Alternates
In addition to the main delegates, two talented students have been selected as alternates. They are:
- Aidan Enriquez, Crestview High School
- Graham Beauchamp, Niceville High School
The journey to Washington, D.C. follows a comprehensive preparatory experience held in Tallahassee, Florida, during the first week of February. This year, 22 local high school juniors participated in the all-expense-paid trip, which was chaperoned by CHELCO staff. The students engaged in mock legislative sessions in both the House of Representatives and the State Senate, providing them with a hands-on understanding of how government operates.
CHELCO’s Commitment to Community Engagement
CHELCO serves over 70,000 accounts in Okaloosa, Walton, Holmes, and Santa Rosa counties in the Florida Panhandle, and it is dedicated to fostering the leaders of tomorrow. The program not only helps students learn about legislative processes but also encourages them to reflect on their experiences. After the trip, participants submitted video reflections, which were reviewed by an independent panel that selected the top students for the Youth Tour in D.C.
This initiative is part of CHELCO’s ongoing commitment to community engagement and youth development. It provides students with a unique opportunity to broaden their horizons, enhance their understanding of civic responsibilities, and make lifelong memories.
For more details about this exciting program, check out the full announcement on Crestview Bulletin and visit CHELCO’s official website for more information.