OLD ORCHARD BEACH — Some complain there’s a general disinterest in politics among young people. However, Old Orchard Beach High School senior Nicholas LaCourse goes against this conception of political apathy in youth.

“I’m very involved in student politics,” said LaCourse, 17, during an interview at his school Wednesday afternoon.

LaCourse is active in student council, serving as treasurer, and is secretary of his class. He likes to stay current on politics, and recalls actively following the 2008 presidential campaign at 9 and 10 years old.

LaCourse will now get a more inside look at politics on the local level, as he was appointed last month as the student representative to the Regional School Unit 23 school board.

“I follow town politics closely,” he said, and is very grateful for the opportunity.

LaCourse said he’s hoping to bring a student’s view to the school board.

“Their decisions directly effect us,” he said.

LaCourse describes himself as politically conservative, and said his passion for politics has inspisred some of his friends to become more knowledgable on political topics, whether they agree with him or not.

LaCourse plays saxophone in the school’s marching band, is president of the French Club and is general manager of the Drama Club.

“Drama’s my other big passion besides politics,” he said. As general manager of the drama club, he has grown participation from about 15 members to 28 through some “good marketing” of the program.

LaCourse said he likes being involved in politics and taking on leadership positions because he likes making improvements and change.

By taking advanced placement classes and classes in partnership with York County Community College, LaCourse will have a whole semester of classes under his belt when he begins college in the fall.

LaCourse is hoping to get accepted to Northeastern University in Boston and major in political science and business administration.

LaCourse said he envisions himself in public administration or working in a government position on the management level, though he said, “I’m not entirely opposed to running for office.”

— Staff Writer Liz Gotthelf cn be contacted at 282-1535, ext 325 or [email protected].