Iowa Communications Network (ICN) has selected a group of Iowa high school students to participate in the Statewide Youth Broadband Advisory Council (SYBAC). The council is an opportunity for students to research and discuss Internet topics, explore Iowa's technology companies, learn about coding, complete cybersecurity certification training, and much more.
During the school year, students will connect with ICN staff, work on a cybersecurity community service project, and get insights from leaders of technology companies in Iowa. Last year's students talked about various subjects like broadband access in schools, cybersecurity, automated transportation, telehealth, and wireless technology.
We want to congratulate the following students that were selected for ICNβs SYBAC for the 2025-2026 school year:
- Irene Alobo, Des Moines Independent HS, Des Moines
- Ryli Baker, Davis County HS, Bloomfield
- Alex Cantor, Johnston HS, Johnston
- Jeremiah Dunkerton, Waterloo West HS, Waterloo
- Liam Fitzsimmons, Green Mountain-Garwin HS, Garwin
- Brayden Hunt, Cedar Falls HS, Cedar Falls
- Ethan Klostermann, Cedar Rapids HS, Cedar Rapids
- Evan Lytle, Columbus HS, Waterloo
- Zachary Mason, Davis County HS, Bloomfield
- Caedon Newton, Central Lee HS, Donnellson
- LaTreyal Oliver, Waterloo West HS, Waterloo
- Parthiv Rengarajan, Valley HS, West Des Moines
- Harrison Ritter, Waterloo HS, Waterloo
- Tom Selby, Choice Charter School, Union
- Annabelle Snyder, South Central Calhoun HS, Lake City
- Hannah Taylor, Beckman Catholic HS, Dyersville
The Councilβs focus is about receiving feedback and mentoring the next generation of young Iowans. SYBAC meetings take place from September to April through video conference, making it easier for students across the State to join in without having to worry about travel restrictions. This is ICN's 11th year coordinating the council, which began during the 2015/2016 school year.