SF Planning Commission launches Young Planners Internship Program for high school students

The San Francisco Planning Commission has launched an exciting initiative aimed at engaging local youth in urban planning, as announced during their recent meeting. The inaugural SF Young Planners Internship Program is set to kick off on June 7, 2025, and will run until August 6, 2025. This program, a collaboration between the planning department and the Mayor's Opportunities for All initiative, will provide hands-on training for high school students interested in the planning profession.

Commissioner Chan highlighted that 15 high school interns and two teaching fellows will participate in this program, which will feature a hybrid model of online and in-person fieldwork. The curriculum will cover a wide range of topics, including housing, zoning, transportation, environmental justice, and historical preservation. This initiative aims to empower students to learn about and shape the future of their city.

In addition to the high school interns, the program will also welcome 25 college interns, who will engage in similar activities. The planning department is eager to involve commissioners and the public in mentoring opportunities and will announce details for a final celebration and graduation event at the program's conclusion.

The meeting also included a unanimous vote to adopt the minutes from the previous session, reflecting a smooth start to the agenda. Commissioner Tanner expressed enthusiasm for the internship program, emphasizing the importance of youth engagement in city planning.

As the program prepares to launch, the Planning Commission is optimistic about its potential to inspire the next generation of urban planners and foster a deeper connection between young residents and their community. The initiative not only aims to educate but also to cultivate a sense of responsibility and involvement among San Francisco's youth, shaping the city's future leaders.