Four local high school juniors represented Oklahoma Electric Cooperative in Washington, D.C., where they explored American history, learned about government firsthand and discovered the lasting impact of cooperative leadership.
Each summer, Oklahoma Electric Cooperative’s Youth Tour gives local high school students an opportunity to experience the nation’s capital while developing leadership skills, learning about public service and building friendships with students from across the country. This year’s delegates returned home with unforgettable memories, greater confidence and a deeper appreciation for civic engagement.
Four students represent OEC
Raegan Boles of Verden, Kaylee Lore of Newcastle, Taylor Meeks of Amber-Pocasset and Tia Peery of Lexington represented Oklahoma Electric Cooperative during the 2026 Oklahoma Youth Tour.
They joined 66 other Oklahoma students and more than 1,700 Youth Tour delegates from across the nation for a week of leadership development and civic education in Washington, D.C. Students visited historic landmarks, met with lawmakers and formed friendships that extended far beyond Oklahoma.
“Visiting our nation’s capital put into perspective how the country operates as a whole,” Peery said. “It made me want to do more for the people around me, contribute to more local causes and strive to become the best version of myself.”
Bringing history to life
Throughout the week, students visited some of America’s most historic locations, including Fort McHenry, Smithsonian museums, Arlington National Cemetery and the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial.
One highlight for the Oklahoma delegation was an exclusive evening tour of the U.S. Capitol led by an Oklahoma senator.
“That shows how special this trip is,” Boles said. “Getting the opportunity to see inside our nation’s Capitol is something not everyone gets to experience.”
For Boles, the experience also encouraged personal growth.
“I learned to come out of my comfort zone and talk to everyone,” she said. “You never know the impact they could have on your life.”
Learning to lead
Youth Tour gives students far more than an opportunity to travel.
Delegates heard directly from congressional staff members, participated in policy discussions and exchanged ideas with students representing 45 states. The experience transformed lessons from the classroom into real-world learning while encouraging students to recognize the value of civic participation.
“Getting to tour and experience the places I’ve learned about throughout my years of history class was not only breathtaking but grounding,” Lore said. “Walking through our nation’s history helped me realize that every voice, even mine, has the power to change the future.”
Friendships that last
Alongside leadership development came meaningful friendships.
Students quickly discovered common ground despite coming from different communities and backgrounds.
“The people you go through this trip with will impact you the rest of your life,” Lore said. “These are lifelong connections you’ll never lose.”
OEC Community Outreach Associate Carrie Koesler said helping students recognize their potential is one of the program’s greatest successes.
“We want these students to come back inspired to lead in their communities,” Koesler said. “It’s not just about the monuments and museums. It’s about helping them see themselves as part of something bigger.”
For these four students, one week in Washington became much more than a trip. It became the beginning of a lifelong commitment to leadership, service and community.