A group of 32 students and 17 staff members gathered in Donnelly on Thursday to take part in the annual Caldwell Youth Forum.

The forum features students from high schools across Caldwell, and attendance is by invitation only. The forum focuses on students who are succeeding academically but who are not actively involved in student government, non-educational activities or out-of-school activity opportunities.

“The Caldwell Youth Forum continues to provide a foundational leadership retreat for Caldwell’s future leaders,” said Dr. Shalene French, superintendent of the Caldwell School District. “Our students have an opportunity to associate with other youth to develop leadership skills, collaborate on current issues and broaden their sphere of influence.”

It was the first time the forum, which is part of the Caldwell Youth Master Plan, was held outside of Canyon County and it was also the first time the forum was spread out over two days.

“What a great couple of days,” said Ron Bonneau, chairman of the Caldwell Youth Forum. “The students responded in such a positive and reflective manner to the questions posed to them. It filled my heart with hope and gratitude to have had this opportunity to share time with these students and with such a talented staff. Although they may attend different schools in Caldwell they are all Caldwell students.”

Bonneau said plans are already underway for next year’s forum, but a date and site have yet to be decided.