CONNECT Youth – The City of Livermore – Session #4

On March 26, CONNECT Youth Program participants gathered in the MPR at Junction Avenue School for Session #4, centered around the theme “The City of Livermore.” The session welcomed 28 students in attendance, including 22 students from the Pedrozzi Young Scholars (PYS) Program and 6 students from the READY Program.

This engaging session gave students an opportunity to learn directly from community leaders and discover how local government and city services support residents and families.

We were honored to welcome several special guests from the City of Livermore:

Participants of CONNECT Youth session #4 participants, including special guests: Vice Mayor Kristie Wang and Librarian Nallely Cervantes

Vice Mayor Kristy Wang spoke with students about how city government works and encouraged them to share their ideas for what they would like to see in their community. Students learned about the roles of the Mayor and City Council and how local leadership helps shape Livermore.

Librarian Nallely Cervantes introduced students to the many resources available through the Livermore Public Library. Students were excited to learn that their school Student ID can also be used as a library card to check out materials. Nallely highlighted online tools that support homework and learning, as well as opportunities for enrichment and fun through programs offered during the school year and school breaks—including reading programs for youth and adults.

Officer Gutierrez presenting to students

Livermore Police Officer Alejandro Gutierrez shared insights into his work serving both the city and Livermore schools. He presented information about emergency procedures and outdoor safety and answered students’ questions about his role in the community.

For the hands-on project, students helped prepare for Luna’s 2nd Birthday celebration in October 2026. Luna is the Moon Tree planted behind the Civic Center Library—grown from seeds that traveled to the moon and back, symbolizing exploration, discovery, and scientific achievement.

Luna’s 2nd birthday banner – made by students

Students worked together to decorate a birthday banner for Luna and also planted sunflower seeds to take home and care for—just as Jacquie Williams from Alden Lane cared for the Moon Tree when it began as a seed. A special thank you to Jacquie for generously donating the seeds, soil, and planter pots so every student could participate.

We also extend our appreciation to Tricia Pontau from the City of Livermore Sustainability Program for providing Luna the Moon Tree stickers for students, and to Quest Science Center for completing the application process that made the Moon Tree seeds possible

Thank you to all of our presenters and partners for helping create a memorable session that encouraged students to learn more about their city, explore community resources, and see the many ways they can make an impact in Livermore.