leadership assignment for high school students

83 Leadership Activities, Building Games, and Exercises

Leadership activities are associated with benefits to business, including increased performance and productivity.

However, perhaps the sign of a truly successful leader is a happy, healthy workplace. Interested in what leadership activities can do for your workplace or school? Read on.

With the activities below, there may be some overlap with activities found under certain headings – for example, activities suitable for adults may also be useful for groups, or with employees.

Before you continue, we thought you might like to download our three Positive Leadership Exercises for free . These detailed, science-based exercises will help you or others adopt positive leadership practices and help organizations thrive.

This Article Contains:

What are leadership activities, what are they used for, 8 examples of leadership activities, 4 leadership workshop ideas, 2 activities that showcase different leadership styles, 3 situational leadership activities and scenarios, 8 games and activities for kids to learn leadership skills, 6 leadership development activities for teens and youth (pdf), 3 classroom leadership activities for students in elementary and middle school, 6 leadership activities and games for high school students, 3 activities and exercises for college students (pdf), 7 leadership games and activities for adults, 5 leadership group and team activities, 8 leadership training activities for employees, 5 leadership building exercises for managers, 11 leadership exercises for team building in the workplace, a take-home message.

Increasingly, people are assuming positions of leadership in the workplace (Cserti, 2018). However, the journey to becoming a leader is lengthy (Cserti, 2018). Leadership activities are valuable on the journey to becoming an effective leader , and also develop confidence in leadership teams (Cserti, 2018; Stepshift, 2016).

Leadership activities may be conducted on or off site, and be physical or sedentary (Stepshift, 2016). Leadership activities can either be performed by a leader in their own team, or with an external facilitator (Cserti, 2018). They may take the form of specially organized themed events, such as scavenger hunts (Stepshift, 2016). Or, they may be smaller, office-based tasks built into an ordinary workday.

For example, leadership activities could consist of meeting openers or conference break activities (Stepshift, 2016).

Leadership activities can be an effective way for individuals to practice and strengthen their leadership and team-building skills (Cserti, 2018). They can also be fun!

The structure of leadership activities is essential. It is important that the participants can relate the activity to the workplace setting (Stepshift, 2016).

The working style, principles, and values of a leader is a crucial aspect in determining the behavior within an organization (Cserti, 2018). Leadership training can help leaders become role-models (Cserti, 2018). The behavior of leaders and what they consider the “norm” determines which behaviors are enforced and those which are punished (Cserti, 2018).

Given the importance of a leader’s behavior, it is also essential that they learn skills, such as:

Communication

Leaders need to develop the ability to clearly, succinctly explain to employees everything from the goals of a company to the details of specific work-tasks (Doyle, 2019). Many components are important for effective communication , including active listening, reading body language and written communication such as emails (Doyle, 2019).

Leaders need to inspire employees. They may do this by increasing worker’s self-esteem , by recognizing effort and achievement, or by giving a worker new responsibilities to further their investment in the business (Doyle, 2019).

Leaders can achieve this by identifying the skills that workers have, and as such assign tasks to each worker based on the skills they have (Doyle, 2019).

Being positive helps develop a happy , healthy work environment, even when the workplace is busy or stressful (Doyle, 2019).

Trustworthiness

By demonstrating integrity , workers will feel at ease to approach their leader with questions or concerns (Doyle, 2019). Building trust is one of the most essential leadership skills.

Good leaders are willing to try novel solutions or to approach problems in a non-traditional way (Doyle, 2019).

Leaders are constantly on the lookout for opportunities to provide team members with information about their performance, without ‘micromanaging’ their work (Doyle, 2019).

Responsibility

A good leader accepts mistakes or failures and instead look for solutions for improvement of a situation (Doyle, 2019). This skill also includes being reflective and being open to feedback (Doyle, 2019).

A leader should strive to follow through with everything that they agree to do (Doyle, 2019). It also involves applying appropriate feedback and keeping promises (Doyle, 2019).

Flexibility

Leaders need to be able to accept changes and creatively problem-solve, as well as being open to suggestions and feedback (Doyle, 2019).

While these skills are explained in a workplace context, they can easily be applied to other leadership situations such as sports or community groups.

Now that you have more clarity as to what leadership activities are, and what they are used for, let us look at a wide selection of activities. While some of the activities and games may not immediately appear to be ‘leadership activities,’ the chosen activities might develop and promote the leadership skills outlined above.

Here are eight such activities:

• Sports Sports provide the experience of being a team member and developing leadership skills (Flavin, 2018).
• Cross-cultural experience Experiences with a different culture provide new, potentially uncomfortable situations and help develop communication skills that may not be learned elsewhere (Flavin, 2018). Overseas travel, or working with a different cultural group within your community can provide an opportunity to learn new skills, or may involve barriers that must be overcome – all teaching leadership (Flavin, 2018).
• Social groups Involvement in social activities helps potential leaders develop a well-rounded, confident personality which enhances their capacity to lead a team (Flavin, 2018).
• Internships Taking an internship position demonstrates initiative in finding opportunities to learn and seeking practical work – valuable skills in leadership (Flavin, 2018).
• Volunteering As well as showing ambition, volunteering shows that you are willing to commit yourself to something that you are passionate about (Flavin, 2018).
• Student government and organizations Specifically considering students, being involved in co-curricular organizations help individuals develop leadership (Flavin, 2018). Being involved in student government or organizations can provide opportunities to demonstrate leadership and have an impact on those around you (Flavin, 2018).
• ‘Passion projects’ Showing commitment to a passion for better communities; for example, mentoring shows that you are likely to focus on the greater good for a team (Flavin, 2018).
• ‘Teamwork’ This can be anything at all, from helping out with planning a family event or participating in a volunteer day, will demonstrate and develop leadership skills (Flavin, 2018).

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Effective leaders are aware that continuing professional and personal development is the key to ongoing success (Higgins, 2018). As such, they recognize that leadership workshops are important (Higgins, 2018). What activities can be used in such a workshop?

Here are four suggestions:

Idea 1: ‘Tallest Tower’ (from Stepshift, 2016)

Participants are provided with everyday items such as toothpicks, wooden blocks, uncooked pasta and so on. The task is to build the tallest possible free-standing structure from the materials provided. This activity is designed to encourage creative problem-solving and developing collaboration skills.

Idea 2: ‘Centre Stage’ (from Higgins, 2018)

Select four team members as volunteers. One team member plays the role of an employee who has missed meetings or been late to work in recent times. Each of the other three participants demonstrates a different style of leader (to save time, nominate the particular personality trait). Ask all participants to form a circle, and put two chairs in the middle of the circle.

After each demonstration of how to deal with the employee, ask the whole group to reflect on the different leadership approaches. For example, the group could consider what worked and what did not. Finally, to conclude this activity, ask the group to consider what the ‘ideal’ leader would do in the scenario.

Idea 3: ‘Minefield’ (from Stepshift, 2016)

This activity helps build trust and improve communication skills. It involves participants working in pairs, with one team member being blindfolded. Then, using only specified communication techniques, the pair negotiate their way around or over a ‘minefield’ of obstacles.

So, for example, the participants may be told they are only able to use commands such as the words ‘left’ or ‘right,’ ‘forwards’ or ‘backwards.’ The aim is to help the blindfolded team member to navigate the ‘minefield’.

Idea 4: ‘Magic Carpet’ (from Higgins, 2018)

Provide a small tarp or rug, which has enough room for all workshop participants to stand within its boundaries. Then, inform the group that their task is to work together to flip the rug or tarp over without any participant stepping off. If (or when) a participant steps off the teams have discussed all of the paragraphs or tarp, the team must begin again.

These are: autocratic (also known as authoritarian), delegative (also called ‘free reign)’ and democratic (which is also called participative) (Clark, 2015; Johnson-Gerard, 2017).

An autocratic leader makes decisions without first consulting others, while a delegative leader allows the staff to make the decisions (Johnson-Gerard, 2017). Finally, a democratic leader consults with the staff in making workplace decisions (Johnson-Gerard, 2017).

Here is an excellent resource for exploring different leadership styles.

The workbook also provides some helpful worksheets.

The following two activities help participants think more deeply about styles of leadership. The group should be divided into small groups of 3 – 4 participants. The participants work in groups for the first activity, and then they work individually on the second activity.

Activity One (Clark, 2015)

Provide a list of approximately 10 – 12 scenarios displaying the three different leadership styles. For example, “a new supervisor has just been put in charge of the production line. He immediately starts by telling the crew what change needs to be made. When some suggestions are made, he tells them he does not have time to consider them”.

The group then works together to figure out which leadership style is used in each scenario and to talk about whether it is effective, or if a different style could work better.

Encourage participants to think about themselves in a similar situation and their reaction to the particular leadership style.

Activity Two (Clark, 2015)

Provide participants with the statement ‘consider a time when you, or another leader, used the authoritarian (autocratic), participative (democratic) or delegative (free reign) style of leadership’.

Ask participants to reflect on the statement and make a few comments, such as: was it effective? Would a different leadership style have worked better? What were the employees’ experiences? Did they learn from the leadership style? What was it they learned? Which style is easiest to use (and why)? Alternatively, nominate the style which the participant prefers (and why).

To conclude these two activities, come together as a whole group and discuss what was learned about the three styles of leadership.

Leadership building activities – Project management training – ProjectManager

Situational leadership is when a leader is flexible in their approach and uses different leadership strategies depending on the situation (Johnson-Gerard, 2017). The following three games, from Johnson-Gerard (2017) provide an opportunity to explore situational leadership:

1. ‘Jumping Ship’

The aim of this game is for participants to reflect upon different leadership styles and come up with a list of actual workplace scenarios which would need a leader to abandon a natural leadership style for one that is more effective (i.e., to ‘jump ship’).

Each group is given three large pieces of paper. Ask the teams to write one style of leadership on each (i.e., autocratic, delegative, democratic). Then, allow the groups 45 minutes to come up with real work situations for which employing the particular leadership style would be disastrous.

Ask the groups to place the sheets of paper up on the wall, and to discuss the sheets as a team. As a whole group, review the posters.

2. ‘Who Ya Gonna Call’

Each participant begins by writing a one-paragraph description of a work situation that is not going well. Collect these, and at the top of each page, number them in consecutive order. Then, divide the participants into two teams.

Give each team half of the paragraphs. Then, ask the teams to choose the style of leadership that would be the least and the most effective in solving the problem. Have the teams note their answers on a piece of paper, being sure to identify the paragraph number on the top of each page, and their choices.

Then, ask the teams to swap paragraphs and repeat the activity.

When the teams have discussed all the paragraphs, discuss the scenarios and review the choices as a group. Where the team’s choices are different, discuss as a group.

3. ‘Ducks in a Row’

This particular activity enables participants to devise a 3-to-5 step decision-making process they can use when challenging leadership situations occur.

Ask participants to form pairs. Then, ask them to come up with the steps that an effective leader goes through in order to work out how to manage a difficult situation. After about 30 minutes, ask each pair to review the steps they have come up with for the group, and to write them on a large piece of paper.

Ask every pair to review their process, and after all the pairs have done so, have a group discussion that enables a consensus to be reached about the three to five most effective steps to take in a difficult leadership situation.

Edsys (2016) provides eight suggested activities for children to learn leadership skills:

1. ‘Create a New You’

Provide children with materials such as textas, crayons, poster/construction paper, magazines, and scissors. Then, ask them to draw themselves, using things that clearly show that the picture is theirs – such as using cut-outs of their most favorite things to do, foods they like, pets, and whatever else makes them unique.

Once the children have finished their posters, they can show their completed work to the other children – helping kids to improve their confidence to lead.

2. ‘Same or Different’

The children sit in a circle. Ask the first child to point to another child in the circle who is similar to them, either in appearance, hair-style or clothing color. Then, when the child has chosen someone, ask them to note other differences and similarities they have with the child they have chosen.

3. ‘Move the Egg’

Ask children to form groups of four or five. Then, have the children select a leader for their team. Each participant is given a spoon and an egg. The leader has the task of finding an effective way to move the eggs from one point to another. For example, one option may be for children to form a line to pass each egg along.

Another leader may suggest forgetting about the spoons altogether and merely tell their group to make a run for it. The winner of the game is the group that can get their egg safely across the finish in the most creative way.

4. ‘Lead the Blindfolded’

This game requires a large indoor or outdoor area. Divide the children into two groups and give them enough blindfolds for everyone except one member to put on. The teams are placed at opposite sides of the space. The child who is not blindfolded is required to lead their team to the other side of the designated space, using clear commands.

Ensure that each member of the team has an opportunity to lead their team. The winner is the team that sees its members successfully cross the finish line.

5. ‘Charity Support’

Help children support a charity by organizing a fundraiser. Each child can have a different task. For example, one child may select the charity, another may find a suitable space to hold the fundraising activity, and another child can collect donations.

6. ‘Planning Strategies’

Teach children to divide a large task into smaller steps. Set the children a large task, such as holding a class function. Show the children a plan that enables them to achieve the task step by step. This activity can involve a number of children sharing tasks. Suggest to the children how they may be able to improve.

7. ‘Volunteer Roles’

Volunteering plays a role in leadership. Discuss with children how they would like to help someone in need. Older children may be interested in taking a role in an organization in their community. The children should be helped to select a volunteer opportunity that gives them a chance to practice leadership and work with other children.

8. ‘A Quick Quiz’

In this task, ask students to be prepared to evaluate an experience when it is over. Then, after the experience, ask the child questions. For example, inquire “Do you remember the name of the dog we saw?”, “What was it?”, “Did you touch the dog?”, “What is the owner’s name?” and so on.

This is an excellent introduction to leadership for kids in grades 4 – 6 (children aged approximately 9 – 12 years).

The following resources are appropriate for helping teens and youth to develop leadership:

1. “Leaders are, can, and think”

This looks at what a leader is, and what their role can and should be.

2. “Who do you admire and why?”

This worksheet examines leadership role models and the qualities we see in them that we want to develop in ourselves.

3. “4 Ways leaders approach tasks: Leaders Motivation”

This handout focuses on leadership attitude.

4. “Lesson Planet”

Links to 45+ reviewed resources for teen leadership which can be accessed free by registering your details.

5. The Women’s Learning Partnership

This partnership has created a comprehensive manual for promoting leadership for teens aged 13 – 17 years. The manual outlines a number of sessions which guide leadership development activities.

6. “I Care Values Activity”

This is a fun, engaging and introspective activity . It is suitable for students aged 13 and upwards, so it can be used with older students or adults too.

Examples of such activities are:

1. ‘Just Listen’ (Edsys, 2016)

Make an agreement that you and the student(s) will refrain from talking about yourselves for a whole day. Ask them, rather, to listen to others, and if they do talk to another person, it should be about the person whom they are talking to. This game helps children to learn how important it is to focus on other people rather than themselves, which forms the basis of ‘relational leadership’.

2. Silence Classroom Leadership Game (Stapleton, 2018).

To begin the activity, the teacher divides students into two teams, and the teams move to either side of the classroom. The desks may be pushed aside to create more space. The teacher instructs the students to, for example, ‘line up according to the first letter of your surname’ or ‘arrange yourselves into age order by the month your birthday is in’. The students then follow the directions without speaking a word to one another.

Students are permitted to use hand signals, or even write instructions down on paper. The teacher’s instruction to the students is that they are not allowed to talk. The winning team is the one that completes the task successfully.

3. ‘The Cup Game’ (Tony, 2018)

Divide students into pairs and select one student to be the leader. Each team should face each other standing up, with a plastic cup in the middle. The leader calls out simple directions, such as ‘touch your knee’, ‘close one eye’ and so on.

When the leader calls out “cup” the students should try and be the first to grab the cup. The player who successfully grabs the cup should pair up with another player who also got the cup. Those without a cup sit down and watch.

Once the new teams of two have formed, the cup is put in between the players and the game begins again. This process continues until only one person is left standing – and the resulting winner becomes the new leader… and play can begin all over again.

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By high school, students are more sophisticated. Here are some interesting activities for high school students to develop leadership.

1. Brainstorming for change (Stapleton, 2018)

The teacher puts students into groups of 4 or 5. The goal is for students to come up with possible solutions to social, political or economic problems. Working together, students brainstorm both small- and large-scale solutions to a given problem topic.

Once the groups have finalized their list of detailed solutions, the teacher facilitates a discussion with the whole class, and together they examine which of the identified solutions could be a viable option and why.

2. Leadership characteristics (Stapleton, 2018)

The teacher puts students into pairs or groups of three. Then, each group member shares a story about someone whom they consider to be an influential leader. After each story has been shared, students discuss the characteristics that they think made the person in the story an effective leader.

Once each student has shared a story, students compile a list of all the characteristics of an influential leader they identified. Post these characteristics on the walls around the classroom.

3. Blindfold leader game (Stapleton, 2018)

The teacher arranges the students into a single line, and comes up with a starting point and finishing point. Then, the teacher places a blindfold on every student except for the student who is at the front of the line.

The teacher tells each student to put their left hand on the left shoulder of the person in front of them. Next, the teacher says “go”. The aim is for the leader (who is not blindfolded) to walk towards the finishing point, providing instructions to students behind, who are blindfolded.

An extra challenging game sees the teacher putting obstacles in the path – the leader must direct followers on how to avoid the obstacles and successfully reach the finish line. When this goal is achieved, a different student takes a turn of being the leader.

4. Buckets and balls (Cohen, 2017)

This game aims to move all the balls from one box to another. The catch is, team members cannot use their hands or arms. In equal-sized teams, players choose one ‘handler’ per team. This is the only person who can touch the balls with their hands.

The handler must remain behind the start line throughout the game. Team members attempt to get balls from their bucket at the finish line, and get them to the team’s handler without the ball touching their hands or arms.

The handler places the balls into the empty bucket at the start line. If a team member touches the ball, they are disqualified and can no longer participate. Give teams a 5-minute time limit. All teams play at the same time, and the team that has the most balls in the handler’s bucket at the end of the game wins.

5. Team jigsaw (Cohen, 2017)

Two teams have to complete a jigsaw puzzle within a 20 – 30-minute time limit. Give each team a box containing a puzzle. At first, A body will assume that their task is to complete the puzzle. As they work on it, however, teams will realize that the puzzle is missing some of its pieces and has some additional pieces that do not fit their puzzle.

Teams then have the task to communicate with one another, and they will eventually realize that they need to work together to complete the puzzle. Teams are only allowed to exchange pieces of the puzzle one at a time.

6. ‘Sneak-a-peak’ (Cohen, 2017)

Divide participants into two teams. Build a structure out of Lego. Make it complicated, but able to be replicated. Ensure that there is sufficient Lego left to build two similar copies of the structure.

Make sure that this structure is kept out of eyesight.

A player from each team is allowed to see the structure for 10 seconds. Then, the players will return to their respective teams and have 25 seconds in which to give his/her team instruction as to how to build the structure. Then, the teams have 1 minute to build the structure.

When that minute is up, another team member takes a look at the structure for 10 seconds and has a further 25 seconds to deliver their instructions to their team.

This process continues until all the team members have had a chance to examine the structure and provide instructions. The team that successfully built the structure is the winner.

• “ The Leadership Training Activity Book ” by Lois. B. Hart and Charlotte S. Waisman (2005) contains 50 handouts for leadership activities that would be suitable for college students. Find it on Amazon .
• This resource provides helpful leadership tip sheets that are suitable for college students. Examples of tip sheets are “ten keys to effective listening” and “basic confrontation guidelines”.
• Another valuable resource that can be used to develop team-building – an aspect of leadership.

A wide range of leadership activities are suitable for adults:

1. The Marshmallow Challenge

In this activity , teams use spaghetti sticks, tape and string to construct the tallest free-standing structure. They are given one marshmallow, which must be placed at the top of the structure. Devised by Tom Wujec.

2. ‘Stand up’ (Landau, 2018)

This game is convenient in that it requires no materials. It involves two people. They sit on the floor, facing one another. They hold hands, and the soles of their feet are placed together. Then, the task is for both people to stand up at the same time. This game builds trust and teamwork, and also develops skills in problem solving and collaboration.

3. Zoom (Stepshift, 2016)

A set of randomly provided sequential pictures are given to the participants. The task requires participants to put the pictures in the correct order to recreate the story, without knowing which pictures the other participants have. This activity can be an effective way to improve communication, patience, and tolerance.

4. ‘You’re a Poet’ (Landau, 2018)

To harness creativity and reflect on leadership concepts, one activity for adults is to write a poem. This activity can be done individually or in small groups. The aim is to consider leadership in creative ways to find new perspectives.

5. ‘Leadership Pizza’ (Cserti, 2018)

This activity can help adults develop leadership. It does so by providing a self-assessment tool. People begin by identifying the skills, attitudes, and attributes that they consider being important for successful leadership. The individual then rates their own development in the defined areas. The framework can also provide a helpful tool in assisting adults in identifying their leadership development goals in a coaching session.

6. Leadership advice from your role model (Cserti, 2018)

Each participant considers a role model who they admire. They then think about a young person they know. If the young person was to ask the role model for leadership advice, what kind of advice would the role model give?

In groups, discuss and share the sort of advice identified and talk about contradicting points and how they can be reconciled. This sharing discussion may be a practical introduction to the idea of situational leadership.

7. ‘Crocodile River’ (Cserti, 2018)

This outdoor activity challenges a group to physically provide support to the group members’ behavior move from one end of a designated space to the other.

Participants are told to pretend that the whole team must cross a wide river which contains dangerous crocodiles. Magic stones (which are represented by wooden planks) provide the only supports to be used to cross the river (which has ‘banks’ that are marked out by two ropes).

These ‘stones’ only float on the water if there is constant body contact. These ‘stones’ (i.e., the wooden planks) are placed next to the ‘river bank’ – there should be one less plank than the total number of participants. As part of the game, if a participant’s hand or foot touches the ‘water’, it will be bitten off (if this happens during the challenge, the participant must hold the hand behind their back).

The facilitator then pretends to be the ‘crocodile’, keeping a close eye on the group as they attempt to cross the river. When one of the stones (the planks) is not in body contact, it is removed. When participants mistakenly touch the ground with their hands or feet, tell them that the limb has therefore been bitten off and the player must continue without using it.

This activity continues until the group succeeds in getting all group members to the other side of the ‘river’. If anyone falls in, the group is deemed to have failed, and they must begin the river crossing attempt again.

1. ‘Feedback: Start, Stop, Continue’ (Cserti, 2018)

Openness creates trust, which then promotes further openness. This activity is designed to be used by a group that has spent sufficient time together in order to have a range of shared experiences they can draw from when they are providing feedback.

Each participant takes a post-it and writes the name of the person who they are addressing on it. Then, they write on the post-it:

“To…. Something I would like you to START doing is…. something I would like you to STOP doing is…. something I would like you to CONTINUE doing is……Signed: ___________”

In groups of around 4 to 6 people, participants complete these sentences on one post-it for the other participants in their group.

If they cannot think of relevant feedback for one of the prompts (i.e., start, stop, continue), they do not need to include it. Once the group has finished writing, they provide the feedback verbally, one at a time, and afterward hand the post-it to the relevant person.

2. Round Tables (Stepshift, 2016)

Four tables are set up with different tasks. Each task has separate steps that participants can be responsible for carrying out. The group select a team member, who is only allowed to communicate and delegate tasks but not take a part in the task. Each table is timed to record how long the task takes to be completed. Round Tables improves leadership and delegation skills.

3. ‘Pass the hoop’ (Landau, 2018)

This game requires participants to stand in a circle and hold hands. One person in the group has a hula hoop around their arm. The game aims to pass the hula hoop the whole way around the circle.

As well as promoting teamwork and problem-solving, this game develops communication skills. Being able to communicate effectively is a crucial skill for any successful leader to have.

4. ‘Improv night’ (Landau, 2018)

One key responsibility of the leader of a team is to encourage team bonding. One way to facilitate bonding is improvisation. ‘Improv’ develops skills in communication – helping teams to listen and pay attention. It also builds self-awareness, self-confidence, and creativity.

Arrange the group into ‘audience’ and ‘performers’. Then, members of the audience take turns in calling out the specified location, profession, and scenario (e.g., coffeehouse, cop, and purchasing a donut). Chosen suggestions are fun and should promote creativity.

5. ‘Shape-Shifting’ (Landau, 2018)

This game requires a rope that is tied at both ends to form a loop. The loop needs to be big enough for all group members to hold onto with both hands as they stand in a circle. The group is instructed to make a chosen shape (e.g., circle, square, triangle). The group attempts to create the shape on the floor.

Progressively, ask the group to make more complex shapes – e.g., a dog, or a tree. To add another layer of difficulty, instruct the team to communicate without talking – i.e., to rely on hand gestures. Afterward, have the group reflect on their experience and discuss the importance of communication.

Leadership is an integral feature of any workplace. Here are some activities to promote leadership in employees:

1. Your favorite manager (Cserti, 2018)

To begin this activity, employees individually take the role of three different people and brainstorm the particular behaviors that each person’s most favorite and least favorite managers demonstrate, from the chosen person’s perspective. After the employees have had the chance to reflect, the participants compare their list of behaviors – in pairs, and then subsequently, in groups.

The teams then prepare a list of ‘dos and don’ts’ for developing better employee perceptions of the leader’s style.

2. Explore your values (Cserti, 2018)

The values of a leader are reflected in their organization. In this activity, each participant writes ten things that they value most in their lives, each one on a post-it. Then, ask the employees to spread the Post-its in a way in which they can see them all clearly. Then, explain to them that they will have 30 seconds to select the three Post-its that are of least importance to them.

It is essential to time strictly, so that the participants rely on their gut feelings.

Repeat the process, this time allowing participants to have 20 seconds to discard two more values. Finally, give the participants a further 20 seconds to throw another two away. Participants should have three Post-its in front of them, showing their top three important values.

Following the activity, have participants reflect individually for about 15 minutes about what was found, and then to discuss reflection questions in pairs or groups of three.

Because this activity is done quickly, participants are encouraged to follow their own intuition – rather than over-thinking and finding what they perceive to be the ‘right’ values.

3. ‘Leadership Coat of Arms’ (Cserti, 2018; Landau, 2018).

Each leader has their own values and the things that they consider valuable and important. These values guide the behavior of the leader and make up a person’s unique leadership philosophy.

This activity sees participants drawing their own ‘leadership coat of arms’ embodying their leadership philosophy.

Individuals have 10 – 15 minutes to draw their coat of arms. They can divide the coat of arms (or ‘crest’) into four sections. To fill each section, consider the categories of leadership skills, values that help influence others, recent achievements/accomplishments and what you like most about your current work.

They should be encouraged not to be overly concerned with how visually appealing their picture is but rather that it expressed what they personally believe to be important aspects of a leader.

Once the drawings are complete, the participants can show their drawings to the others in the group and explain their unique coat of arms. It is also helpful to reflect on the activity – consider which section was easiest to complete and whether your crest reflects your company’s values.

4. Communication: Coach the Builder (Goyette, 2016)

Divide employees into groups of four to seven people. Each group should be given two sets of blocks (such as Lego). Each set should have a minimum of 10 blocks.

Beforehand, you should construct a sample object (e.g., a house) from one of the sets of blocks. In each group, select a leader, a delegator, a builder and a note-taker. The note-taker watches and records the group’s behavior during the task. They take note of what appeared to be done well and how employees could improve.

The leader is given the item that you built – however, they are the only group member to see the object. Set a timer for ten minutes. To begin with, the leader describes to the delegator how the builder should build a replica of the item. However, the delegator does not see the object, and at this stage of the activity, the builder should not hear the instructions.

The delegator can speak with the leader as often as necessary during the 10 minutes. The builder attempts to build the same item that the leader can see. However, they are only relying on the delegator’s instructions. At this stage, the delegator should not see the object that the builder is constructing.

When the time is up, reveal both objects to all participants and see how closely they match. Finally, to wrap up the activity, employees can discuss what was either frustrating or easy about the process and discuss how they may do things differently in order to achieve better results.

5. Accountability (Goyette, 2016)

Begin a meeting by saying to the group – “the seating arrangement is totally wrong for today’s meeting. You have 60 seconds to improve it”. If the employees ask further questions, only repeat the instructions. While some employees may continue asking questions, others may start moving the furniture around straight away. Observe the team and what they do without giving any further information, feedback, or instructions.

After 1 minute, let the employees know to stop. Then, ask them whether the objective was achieved, and how. Discuss with employees how and why a lack of clarity makes it challenging to complete a task.

Then, discuss who asked for clarification and how they felt when the leader refused to give further details. Use this opportunity to highlight to employees how if they fail to ask questions, and when the person in charge of a project doesn’t provide the necessary clarification, the whole team is at risk of making mistakes or even not completing a task.

Finally, ask how the time pressure affected behavior. Discuss how employees may be more likely to respond to pressure, or stress, by taking action without first confirming a plan and the significant problems this approach can lead to.

6. The “what if” game (Deputy, 2018)

Present different hypothetical problematic scenarios to employees. Either individually or by providing a document that requires written answers, present situations such as “you didn’t follow the rules, and subsequently lost an important client. You have lost a lot of money for the company. How do you justify this? What is your solution?”.

The questions only need to be rough, and employees should only receive a short time with which to think of their responses. If there is a particularly challenging question, provide a time limit of five minutes.

7. ‘Silver Lining’ (Cohen, 2017)

Employees form teams of at least two people who have shared a work experience – e.g., working on a project together. One person shares an experience from working together that was negative for them.

Then, the second person reflects on the same experience but instead reflects on the positive aspects of the experience (i.e., the ‘ silver lining ’). Then this same person shares their own negative experience, and this time it is up to the other person to focus on the positive aspects of it.

Often, when people reflect on an experience, they do so with a particular perspective . By looking at the positive aspects of a ‘negative’ experience, this helps individuals shift perspectives. Furthermore, by sharing experiences, employees develop deeper relationships, and team bonding is promoted.

8. My favorite brand (Training Course Material, n.d.).

Ask employees to bring three or four printed logos/brands that they use regularly or admire most. Then, form groups of 3 – 4 people. Teams have a period of ten minutes to share and discuss their chosen logos.

Their task is to agree upon the team’s top 2 logos or brands which is their team’s choice. The team also selects a team spokesperson who will report to the bigger group about why the team chose the specific brands/logos.

Participants are encouraged to share personal experiences or stories that they had with their chosen brand. After the ten minutes elapses, each spokesperson presents the logos that the team began with as well as their two top chosen logos/brands. It is their role to explain to the group why the team voted on their top brand/logo.

1. Manager or leader? (Training Course Material, n.d.)

Small groups of managers work together to create two tables, one titled ‘leader’ and one titled ‘manager’. In each table, the group writes statements describing either management behavior or leadership behavior.

For example, the ‘manager’ table may contain statements such as “schedules work to be done” or “delegates tasks”. On the other hand, statements in the ‘leader’ table could be “motivating staff” and “creating culture”.

The purpose of this activity is to demonstrate to managers the difference between management versus leadership, and show that while ‘every leader can be a manager, not every manager can be a leader’. However, by brainstorming leadership behaviors, managers begin the process of becoming a successful leader.

2. The race of the leaders (Deputy, 2018)

This activity encourages leadership behaviors. To begin with, write a list of leadership qualities – approximately 10 – 20 statements – on a piece of paper. Describe the qualities – e.g., ‘I determine everything that happens to me’, and ‘I will not blame others for my problems’.

Read these statements out loud, and participants take a step forward if they believe a statement describes them. They must be prepared to give reasons as to why they think they possess each quality. Continue reading the statements until there is a definite ‘winner’.

3. The best team member (Training Course Material, n.d.).

Divide the group into teams of about 4 – 5 participants. Give each team a large, blank piece of paper and markers. Each group has the task to come up with as many characteristics of their ‘ideal’ team member as they can. Teams should consider what this ‘best team member ever’ would be like.

After ten minutes, the groups should examine the characteristics that they have written and work out the portion which are ‘technical’ skills and those which are ‘interpersonal’. The aim is to work out whether most of the traits can be classified as technical or interpersonal skills.

Teams usually come to realize that interpersonal skills in employees are especially critical and that these have a tremendous impact on the quality and quantity of workplace performance.

This activity can be adapted according to the setting. For example, if the focus is on leadership development, teams could discuss their ideal leader/supervisor.

4. The importance of feedback (Training Course Material, n.d.).

Divide the group into three teams. Provide each team with poster paper and markers or pens.

Team A is required to consider as many reasons as they can that would make them apprehensive to provide feedback to another person.

Team B is asked to consider what feedback can help them so, i.e., what feedback will help them accomplish.

Team C comes up with as many things as they can that would make a feedback session effective.

Each team has 15 minutes to brainstorm their ideas, then, each team can present their ideas.

Point out to Team A that the hurdles they suggested are self-imposed ideas that will lead to the manager fearing the worst. Instead, managers should be encouraged to share feedback on a more regular basis to gain the necessary experience in having such conversations. Furthermore, by having an awareness of the most effective way to prepare and deliver feedback can help a manager conquer the issues holding them back.

Point out to Team B that providing constructive feedback as needed is imperative for developing a productive work environment. A feedback discussion that is well-planned and thought out delivers an opportunity to share what you have noticed about another person’s job performance and bring about productive change.

Finally, after Team C has shared their ideas, point out that effective feedback is specific, honest, and backed up with evidence. The feedback will help others to come up with goals, make and reinforce positive changes, promote self-confidence and encourage action in the workplace.

Thank all the teams for their participation and input.

5. ‘Shark Tank’ (Deputy, 2018).

This activity is derived from a famous TV show that gives people a chance to show their entrepreneurial skills. Managers may work individually or in groups. The aim of this activity is for employees to come up with a business plan that outlines the steps of how to build a successful company from ‘startup’.

Once the managers have a plan, they can create a ‘pitch’, which should contain the brand’s name, its’ tagline (or slogan), a detailed business plan, a detailed marketing plan, financial predictions (sales, profits and market) and potential problems (competition, lack of resources).

In a role play, appoint a few chosen managers to be the ‘sharks’ (the ones who consider the projects’ merit and offer imaginary ‘investments’). The winning group, or individual, is the one who raised the most money from the ‘shark’.

17 Exercises To Build Positive Leaders

Use these 17 Positive Leadership Exercises [PDF] to help others inspire, motivate, and guide employees in ways that enrich workplace performance and satisfaction. Created by Experts. 100% Science-based.

1. The Human Icebreaker (Stepshift, 2016).

This is a simple activity that can alleviate tension and promote discussion and contribution. Participants devise a list of questions that relate to people generally – for example, “who is left-handed?”. Participants then discover which team members meet the question’s criteria. After 10 minutes, the participant who has the most answers wins. This activity promotes communication and helps team members build inter-personal skills.

2. ‘Office trivia’ (Cohen, 2017)

This quick activity can help as an ice-breaker and provides a flexible option for team building. Create a list of trivia questions that are related to the workplace. For example, “how many people named ‘John’ work in the accounting department?” or, “how many people work in the IT department?”. Read the questions out loud to the whole group. The employee with the most correct answers at the end is the winner.

3. Plane crash (Stepshift, 2016)

The participants imagine that they are on a plane which has crashed on a deserted island. They are allowed to select a specified number of items from around the workplace that would help the group to survive. Each chosen item is ranked in importance. The whole group must agree on their decision. This activity helps with creative problem solving and collaboration.

4. ‘Magazine story’ (Cohen, 2017)

Each team works together to come up with an imaginary cover story of a magazine, about a successful project or business achievement. The team designs the images, headlines, and come up with quotes.

5. The Human Knot (Stepshift, 2016)

Relying on cooperation, this is a good problem-solving and communication activity. Participants stand shoulder to shoulder in a circle. Then, they put their right hand in the hand of a person who stands across from them. They then put their left hand in the hand of another different person (but not someone standing directly next to them).

Participants are required to untangle the human knot without breaking the chain. If the chain is broken, the participants must start over.

6. Make your own movie (Cohen, 2017)

This is a fun activity that is suitable for both indoors and outdoors. Although it requires the necessary equipment (i.e., camera, tripod, and microphone), teams enjoy it. Employees should work in large groups (more than eight people) and divide responsibilities. Teams work together to come up with scripts for a 5 – 7-minute movie.

7. Radio Play (Cohen, 2017)

This activity can provide an alternative to making a movie. Employees work together, spending about one-hour planning and writing a play and taking a further 15 – 20 minutes to ‘perform’ it, keeping in mind that it is designed for radio.

Each participant places their chair, in no particular order, around the room. The room should be cleared of tables and other furniture. Each person should sit on their chair, pointing in a different direction. Then, request one manager to volunteer and come to the front of the room. Their task is to walk slowly back to their empty chair and sit down.

If their chair is occupied, they can move to the next empty chair available and sit on it. However, everyone else has the task of stopping the volunteer from sitting down.

Only one person at a time can stand and move. No one can make two consecutive moves. A person cannot sit on the chair that they have just left. Once the activity begins, the room is required to be silent. No one is allowed to touch the volunteer.

Give the managers 2 minutes to come up with their strategy. After every round, the participants should discuss what happened and select a new volunteer for the next round. The team is given 2 minutes preparation time each round. It is important that the volunteer’s movement is kept at a slow walk.

At the conclusion of the activity, it is beneficial for the team to discuss the activity. They may reflect upon whether they need a leader, what made planning difficult, whether everyone agreed on the plan, and what would make the task easier.

9. Back to back drawing (Cohen, 2017)

Provide vector shapes on separate pieces of paper (they can be shapes of signs, objects or merely abstract shapes). Participants sit in pairs, back-to-back. Employee A is given a sheet of paper and a pen, and employee B is provided with one of the printed shapes.

The aim of the activity is for employee A to draw the shape relying only on verbal instructions from employee B. Person B cannot only tell the other person what the shape is – he/she is only able to provide directions about how to draw it, or to describe its uses. Each team has two 2 minutes to draw the shape.

10. ‘All Aboard’ (Stepshift, 2016).

Teams use various materials, for example, pieces of wood or mats, to build a pretend ‘boat’. All the participants must stand on the ‘boat’ at once. Then, pieces of the ‘boat’ should be removed. The team should still strive to stand in the diminished space on the ‘boat’. All Aboard can promote communication, problem-solving and critical thinking.

11. Body of words (Cohen, 2017)

Participants are divided into teams of between four and eight people, and each team elects one leader. To prepare the activity, record words that have one less letter than the number of people in the team (i.e., if there are five people in the team, a suitable word could be ‘book’ which has four letters). Randomly select a word, and then the teams have the task of making the word using only their bodies.

Each team member moves and bends their body to form a letter. The team leader can direct their team.

What stands out to me from this article is the complexity of leadership. This article demonstrates that even if one is not a ‘natural’ leader, there are plenty of activities that can promote leadership skills. Even children can develop leadership, and what’s more, have fun with activities at the same time.

What do you think espouses leadership? Do you think that there are people who might tend to be leaders more than others? Perhaps you have a story about a leadership activity you have participated in or delivered – I would dearly like to hear about your experiences.

Thank you for reading.

We hope you enjoyed reading this article. Don’t forget to download our three Positive Leadership Exercises for free .

• ‘tony’ (2018). Leadership games and activities for middle school students . Retrieved from https://www.kidsactivties.net/leadership-games-activities-for-middle-school-students/
• Clark, Donald (2015). Leadership Styles Activity . Retrieved from www.nwlink.com/~donclark/leader/styles.html
• Cohen, Esther (2017). 31 Team building activities your team will actually love . Retrieved from https://www.workamajig.com/blog/team-building-activities
• Cserti, Robert (2018). 12 Effective leadership activities and games . Retrieved from https://www.sessionlab.com/blog/leadership-activities/
• Deputy (2018). 6 Impactful leadership activities to try at work . Retrieved from https://www.deputy.com/blog/6-impactful-leadership-activities-to-try-at-work
• Doyle, A. (2019). Top 10 leadership skills employers look for . Retrieved from https://www.thebalancecareers.com/top-leadership-skills-2063782
• Edsys (2016). 1 0 Activities for teachers to grow leadership skills in children . Retrieved from https://www.edsys.in/10-activities-for-teachers-to-grow-leadership-skills-in-children/
• Flavin, B. (2018). 8 Leadership Experiences You Didn’t Know You Already Have . Retrieved from https://www.rasmussen.edu/student-experience/college-life/leadership-experience-you-didnt-know-you-already-have/
• Goyette, P.(2016). 3 Leadership activities that improve employee performance at all levels . Retrieved from https://www.eaglesflight.com/blog/3-leadership-activities-that-improve-employee-performance-at-all-levels
• Higgins, R. (2018). 5 Fun and Inspirational Leadership Workshop Ideas . Retrieved from https://www.eventbrite.com.au/blog/leadership-workshop-ideas-ds00
• Johnson-Gerard, M. (2017). Situational Leadership Games . Retrieved from https://bizfluent.com/list-6762581-situational-leadership-games.html
• Landau, P. (2018). The 9 best leadership games for skill development . Retrieved from https://www.projectmanager.com/blog/the-9-best-leadership-games
• Stapleton, S. (2018). Leadership activities for High School classrooms . Retrieved from https://classroom.synonym.com/leadership-activities-high-school-classrooms-7855904.html
• Stepshift (2016). Leadership Training Activities . Retrieved from https://www.stepshift.co.nz/blog/developing-team-performance-with-senior-leadership-teams/strategic-planning-with-an-independent-facilitator/leadership-training-activities.html
• The Pennsylvania State University (2012). I can be a leader! Leadership fun for children . Retrieved from https://extension.psu.edu/programs/betterkidcare/knowledge-areas/environment-curriculum/activities/all-activities/i-can-be-a-leader-leadership-fun-for-children
• Training Course Material (n.d.). Leadership and management activities . Retrieved from https://www.trainingcoursematerial.com/free-games-activities/leadership-and-management-activities

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This great. Thank you

Great ideas, thank you!

Thank you so much for providing such a useful list of activities to demonstrate and for such a varied target population. Innovative and attention-seeking exercises yet practical.

Thank you for posting this informative blog. keep sharing.

Too interesting for me to try all.

Great article! Having group activities Melbourne helps the team to enhance working together. I love how it brings people together and motivates employees to learn from each other.

Great activities. Thank you.

This is an excellent article for every manager and leader tn build successful leadership. Thank you.

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• 35 Teen Leadership Activities and Games [Every High School Teen Should Play]
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• December 2, 2022

Many teens show excellent potential to become young leaders in the future, and if they wish to improve and develop those skills to the next level , there is good news: There are now tons of teen leadership activities and team building games that cultivate leadership abilities and grant participants the skills to be great managers and successful leaders one day, whether currently middle school students, high schoolers, or older career-bound team leaders. 

These games are an effective way to help youth leaders master the different skills needed to bring a whole class of peers together, which can result in young tweens or teens leading large groups and making an impressive mark on their school , community, or the world at large. Below are 35 activities and games that can help any teen develop their leadership skills so they can land the job of their dreams one day, whether that’s teaching an elementary school class or heading a board of directors meeting for a Fortune 500 company.

This 60-minute game requires teens to maneuver through a minefield without stepping on any mines. Fake mines are placed in strategic areas of the minefield and the team members have to work together to remember where the mines are and figure out how to walk across the lot without hitting a mine. The game improves problem-solving skills and teamwork.

• The Human Knot

For this game, everyone stands in a circle and extends their hands into the middle of the circle. The first thing you’ll do is grab a hand without looking at who it belongs to, then hold another hand with your remaining hand. Once everyone does this, a tangled knot will appear, and it’s up to everyone in the circle to figure out how to get untangled, which invariably requires some team work and effective leadership from a problem solving participant or two.

Great leaders realize that there are often many options when trying to get out of a particular situation. In this game, the “leader” presents various options to the group, and each member has a sticky note that they’ll place on the option they favor. It’s up to the leader to help those who are unsure which option to choose, which can make this an interesting game when it comes to managing interpersonal relationships without coming off as too authoritarian and allowing peers the feeling of ownership of a task, even if they’ve allowed the leader to influence their decision.

• What I Need from You

A common goal for all leaders in this activity is to make it clear what is expected of the team, especially if the team is virtual, remote, or of a large group size. Each member of the team tells the rest of the team what they need for a particular project, and each leader and the rest of the team members all have to understand what that need is. This is a great work environment simulation to help young adults speak up and ensure they are heard, even when their lack of seniority, inexperience, or lower age tempts them to shrink back or shy away.

For this game, have everyone sit in a circle. One person is blindfolded and goes to the center of the circle. They explore the area with the help of the people in the circle, who are directing this person and keeping them safe. Each person gets the chance to be the person in the center.

• Jigsaw Puzzle Pieces

Start this game by dividing people up into small groups. Each group is given puzzle pieces to put together, and they’re timed, but they don’t know that their pieces are only part of the whole puzzle. The teams have to coordinate with one another to complete the entire puzzle.

• Incoming Tide Survival

This game should be played with 8-16 young people, who pretend they’re on a deserted island and have to create a structure to help them leave the island, using only the materials that they are given at the beginning of the game. Time the game at 45 minutes. This is one of the best games to develop creative thinking and problem-solving skills, as well as fast action-oriented solutions, thanks to the time limit.

• Video Scavenger Hunt

Divide the group into 4- to 8-member teams . Each team videotapes themselves searching for the items they need to find. This is another of the many team-building activities that requires the teams to work together in order to complete the project and find as many items as possible. The team with the most items wins the game.

• Active Listening

This is a fun game that requires active listening skills. Each team has 3 members: a subject who explores the question asked, a listener totally focused on the subject, and an observer who watches the other 2 members interact. 

• Start, Stop, Continue

Perfect for virtual teams, you start by creating a situation and asking all members if the team should start something, stop something, or continue as they are already doing. It is good for improving communication skills and creating openness.

• Four Leaders

This game requires a form that you can download, and four teams try to work through a certain scenario using one of four leadership attitudes: positive attitude, negative attitude, your own desire, and the desires of others. Decide the scenarios ahead of time.

This is a game you can play with high school students even in the middle of the school year. It doesn’t take after-hours time to do it. Give teams of 6 to 12 members 30 minutes, and it requires one blindfolded person to find a “bomb,” with only what other members are saying to help them find it. The nice thing about this high-stakes scenario and common group goal is that it facilitates healthy relationships and positive communication for teams under duress or high-pressure situations.

• Volunteer Activities

Today’s teen leaders are tomorrow’s adult leaders, and teens can discover what their leadership qualities are by volunteering in the community. The best part about community service is that teens can always volunteer with organizations that do the type of work they’re interested in and wish to do one day themselves, thus broadening their professional network and gaining experience and exposure to industries, organizations, and causes of interest.

• Leadership Camps

To discover their leadership style, teens can attend workshops, camps, or masterclasses on how to become a better leader. These activities are easy to find and are usually led by experts in the field, giving teens a great way to get a head start in accelerating their leadership potential and empowering them to set goals and pursue projects or opportunities that call for independent, influential leaders.

• Local Politics

From public speaking to learning from various role models, teens always benefit from getting involved in local politics. There are numerous internships and volunteer positions that help improve teens’ leadership skills, giving them opportunities to learn a lot about this field. Starting with school politics (like student government) and advancing to local politics (like city council) can forge a path and passion for a future career in government or perhaps inspire the next presidential candidate!

• Clubs and Sports

School is not just for learning; it’s also a way to develop skills outside of the classroom. Clubs and sports make it easy for kids to learn all about leadership in a fun way, and with these groups, there is truly something for everyone.

• Pass the Can

To get started, have everyone sit in a circle and put an object – such as a rock or can opener – in a can. Have them pass the can around but each time, the leader has to give them special instructions ; for example, you can’t use your hands, you have to use your feet, etc. This activity not only cultivates leadership, but it also promotes innovation, creativity, problem-solving, and outside-the-box thinking.

• 30 Seconds Left

Becoming a better leader requires really knowing the people under you. Ask the team to tell everyone else about their best achievements and accomplishments, but tell them they only have 30 seconds to do so. It’s a good game to get to know others on a personal level, as well as to help players develop a concise personal statement or personal pitch, which will come in handy in future interviews, competitions, and job applications.

Here’s another of the group games that is both fun and educational. Ask each member to write down 5 icebreaker questions to ask the other members. Have the members count their “yes” answers and whoever has the most points wins the game.

• Regularly Scheduled Game Nights

Regular game nights can be as good as leadership workshops. They allow for bonding between the team members, allow everyone to have fun, and require a leader to emerge in order to be successful. Choose card games, board games, or anything else that appeals to you.

• Student Media

Leaders excel when they’re involved in student media, including the school newspaper and yearbook . If you love to write and share information with others, this is the activity for you. Plus, it helps with decision-making and working closely with others, while also delivering an impressive, finished product that looks great on a resume or college application.

• Confidence Course

The confidence course, also called an obstacle course, is perfect for future leaders because it’s tough and takes a lot to finish. Once you’re done with the course, you’ll be amazed at how good you feel, and it takes certain leadership skills in order to complete it successfully. Confidence courses are usually hard both physically and emotionally, so they are really a challenge.

• STEM Competitions

STEM competitions take place locally and internationally , and the better leader you are, the more successful you are at these competitions. Even better, you can easily find the most recent list of the competitions in many places on the Internet. They are easy to find, fun to attend, impressive on your credentials, and great life experiences to demonstrate the leadership concepts you’ve been honing.

• Student Council

Running for the student council requires teens to be good leaders and very organized, so there are multiple benefits. These organizations are also good for developing both professional and personal growth, and it can increase the number of friends you have, too. One benefit of student council is that it forces students of varying cultural values, interests, and priorities to come together for the highest good of their class and school, which can create interesting debates, discussions, and peaceful compromises on the road to each decision and chosen action.

• Planning Lunches or Dinners

Student leadership skills can be developed while planning group meals in order to plan certain activities. You can bond with other people and plan an organized activity at the same time, both of which are excellent skills to learn. You also get to eat, which is the best part of the entire activity!

• Escape Room

An escape room is a game that is offered by companies that specialize in these types of activities. They are often utilized by entire families while on vacation, and they are rooms designed to “escape” from something, such as the guillotine or the zombie apocalypse! The best thing about escape rooms is that they’re inherently enjoyable, exciting, and adrenaline-inducing, thus creating a positive memorable experience in which leadership and teamwork are just seamless byproducts of the primary activity.

Book clubs are great because they need people to lead the group each month. Teens can choose fun books that they actually want to read, then choose a different person to lead the group every time they meet. It’s best if this activity goes on for many months, but it’s not a requirement. The most ambitious leaders in book clubs may decide to run a book drive or theme each club meeting and chosen book around a community issue and aim to solve it or positively contribute to it through a joint activity, so the club is much more than simply a reading and discussion club, but also an altruistic community service-oriented mission group.

• Collaborate to Create

Get into a group and decide what type of story you want to write, then have each member write just a certain section of the book. In order for the book to sound good and be cohesive, the team has to work together and collaborate on everything. This is a good activity for conflict resolution because problems can easily arise as the group is tasked with molding their individual and disjointed sections into a well-structured story that makes sense with an ultimate resolution.

• Photo Finish (Similar to Electric Fence)

Draw a line on the floor and have a team on either side. Taking turns with the teams, have them cross the line to the other side when you say “go.” This is one of those games that sounds easy but often requires some problem-solving and other skills to be successful. Oftentimes, participants are thinking of “why” they should cross the line and are hesitant.

• Community Bingo

Have designated individuals that organize mock bingo games with other students. Have those individuals organize the entire activity from start to finish. There is a lot involved in planning and organizing this type of activity, so a lot of responsibility and organizational skills are required, particularly for young children or tweens who’ve never organized a large group event.

• Get Off the Sofa

For this game, have 4-6 teens sit on a sofa, then choose a leader for each group. Have the leader try to get the teens off the sofa by asking about something they like to do. For instance, you can lure them off the sofa by asking if they like washing their car, helping with chores, playing video games, etc.

• Tag Team Snack Challenge

This one is good for teaching various life skills. Divide people into small groups and have each group prepare a snack without speaking. Let the members of each group take turns with a certain instruction, and give each member 30 seconds to complete their part of the routine.

• Discussion About Leaders

Have a group discussion about leaders each member admires. Have that member tell who they admire – even if it’s someone they don’t personally know – and have them describe to the group why they admire this person. This activity is usually a real eye-opener for all of the participants, not to mention interesting.

• Round Tables

Set up 4-5 tables, depending on how many participants you have, and designate leaders that will go to a certain table and give them an activity to complete, which could be something to make or something similar. The goal is to see how clearly each leader communicates with the members.

Have everyone in the group write down keywords that describe themselves, then have everyone share their own keywords with the rest of the group. This activity can identify potential leaders and also tell you what each participant thinks of themselves.

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15 Leadership Activities For High School: After School Programs, Games, And Discussions

March 17, 2024 //  by  Danielle Torpey

In a world that values productivity with creative collaboration–fostering leadership within students helps prepare successful leaders in society. In my classroom, it’s easy to pick out the few kids who have natural leadership abilities, which made me wonder: how do I allow opportunities for students to all foster elements of leadership?

High school students are no doubt the future leaders of our society. I knew that providing leadership opportunities through various activities by implementing an element of leadership in my lesson plan would promote growth in communication skills among all my students.

Below are fifteen different activities for teachers to implement in their lesson plans to help foster influential leaders within the classroom and in students’ post-graduate endeavors.

1. Establish a student timer

Time in the classroom is precious and most lessons have a time limit between transitions. Pick a student to be the “timer” for the day. They will be responsible for effective communication on the time left on a task. If you’ve allotted a five minutes time limit for a task to be completed, then your timer is the one who is responsible for keeping the class up to date on the remaining time and when that time has concluded. This is a simple way to give a student ownership and leadership situations to take charge.

2. A leader to pass out materials and paper

A simple activity to give kids the chance to take pride in a leadership role. If you have multiple handouts or materials for an activity, have a student or two be responsible for handing them out to everyone. This is also a great trick for your busy body students! Allowing them a quick minute to get up and move around the room before the next section of the lesson clears their brains and provides an aspect of leadership.

3. Create a student government 

Within different activities and after-school programs consider establishing a student government that works alongside the adult sponsors. Leaders could be responsible for ice-breakers, team-building activities, and other activities for students. With a student government, their focus should center around the alliance of students within the school to promote school spirit and participation. This is a foundational practice and building block to establishing an inclusive school culture that is promoting the collective student body.

Learn More: Columbia Interschool Governing Board

4. Activity Roles 

During lessons with small group discussions, give each member of the group a role to take ownership of. This allows for exposure to different styles of leadership, leadership behavior, and valuable skills that keep a discussion focused on the task at hand. On a sticky note or a blank piece of paper, write down the different roles each member of the discussion can take on. BONUS: this helps prevent picking a regular called-upon student and allows every student a chance to speak.

Learn More: University Of Waterloo

5. Tutoring programs 

Allowing high school students to tutor middle school students is a great opportunity to add valuable tools to their leadership abilities. Plus, this is an excellent opportunity to boost a college application with leadership experience. Tutoring encourages leaders to establish their leadership styles on top of a leadership philosophy that suits their personality the best!

6. Peer mentorships 

Down the same vein as tutoring programs, schools could consider a peer mentorship program to add positive aspects of leadership and interpersonal skills. This style of leadership pushes beyond the subject matter, and helps grow authentic leadership for teen mentors! An influential leader could help with struggling underclassmen, special needs students, at-risk students, etc.

7. Small group feedback 

During class projects, have students take a piece of paper and provide feedback to their peers. Giving constructive feedback is a simple activity to encourage elements of leadership. Plus, successful leaders take feedback and weigh the viable options to make their work better! Creating a classroom that is centered around giving positive and regular feedback allows students to practice giving and receiving feedback in a controlled and constructive space.

Learn More: Room to Discover

8. Students lead after school program

If students have a particular interest in a topic or hobby encourage them to run activities for students in an after-school program who might show interest in the topic as well. It’s as easy as an announcement on the intercom and a sign-up sheet of paper for those who are interested too. Some of the after-school programs to consider include creative writing club, tabletop/board game club, gay-straight alliance, Spanish club, etc.

9. Teen advocacy campaign

School months are filled with opportunities for campaigns. Whether it’s mental health awareness month, teacher appreciation week, or homecoming–use different observed holidays and awareness dates for students to create and execute activities for students.

10. Give situational leadership journal prompts 

Start the class off with a quick five-minute situational leadership journal prompt! Giving a journal prompt with questions such as, “Your best friend is bullying someone in the locker room, how do you handle this situation.” or “You’re the CEO of a new company and about to launch a new product that will change the world–what are the steps you take with your team” and so on. Let students think on their feet and map out their responses in their journal or a blank piece of paper!

11. Games that promote leadership qualities 

Games in the classroom have always been a tide and true way to implement leadership skills. A classroom leadership game can help build trust within students and build a strong classroom culture!

Learn More: Vantage Circle

12. Independent Project-Based learning opportunities

Independent projects create a space for valuable skills when it comes to internal leadership and integrity. Sometimes the behavior of leaders starts from within! Project-based learning leads students to find internal motivation to do well on an assignment. Whether a formative or summative assignment, independent projects are a great opportunity to develop leadership skills.

Learn More: Crafted Curriculum

13. Scavenger hunt lesson

A scavenger hunt lesson is a great way to mix up instruction and allow activities for students to build leadership! Whether outside, within the school, or on an online scavenger hunt, students will think learning is a fun game! This is a great option for all ages and content across the board.

Learn More: 28 Ingenious School Scavenger Hunts For Students

14. Student leaders create a fun activity

Allow students to express their creativity with their mini-lesson. Small groups can plan a lesson focused on a particular concept you are covering in a unit. To push leadership skills further, the class can provide constructive feedback for the group that is taught!

15. Group Project-based learning opportunities

Want to incorporate project-based learning with a group? Similar to independent projects, creating a formative or summative assessment with groups encourages leadership amongst a group! You’ll be surprised how naturally students will start assigning each other tasks to get a project completed with accountability and reliability. Creative collaborations also allow space for constructive feedback!

Learn More: E Reading Worksheets

Final Thoughts

Whether fostering a natural-born leader’s talents or encouraging a student that needs help to develop their leadership style–giving opportunities in the classroom can be simple! Try out some of the different activities for teachers to implement in their lesson plans to help foster influential leaders within the classroom and in students’ post-graduate endeavors! You’ll be amazed how quickly students begin to foster skills!

10 Leadership Activities for High School Students

Today we'll share some leadership activities for high school students. High school is the perfect time for students to gain leadership skills and life skills that will support them on their academic and professional journeys. Leadership is one of the most desired soft skills among employers hiring today and effective leaders help any team or organization improve. Leadership skills do not grow on trees, however, and while some kids are naturally good at bossing other kids around, that’s not what makes a good leader. Leaders do not need to be commanding, extraverted, or aggressive. In fact these qualities can have a negative impact, especially on large, diverse teams with complex goals.

Explore leadership activities for high school students

Good leaders are supportive, great listeners and communicators, and they lead through empathy and mutual respect. Great leaders are open minded and they take risks, which means trying new things, developing self awareness, and actively listening to others. This might sound complicated, but like any skill, leadership can be taught.

Which is why we put together this list of leadership activities for high school students to help you guide your teens toward activities which suit them. Some of them are more traditional, like the National Honors Society and the Future Business Leaders of America. But if you keep reading you might be surprised by some of the fun ways that high school students can learn how to become great leaders!

1. Tutoring and Volunteering

Great teachers make great learners in their students, but they are also great at learning themselves. In fact, studies have shown that when we learn something with the intention of teaching it to others, we learn more effectively than when studying for examinations or for personal enjoyment. Good leaders need to train and support their teams, and they are great at sharing their knowledge with others. They are also themselves eager to learn, and a good leader will be honest when they do not know something.

While some people in positions of power consider it embarrassing to make a mistake or not know something, a good leader will ask a lot of questions, remain honest with themselves, and work hard to fill in the gaps of their knowledge. For students with skills in one or more subjects, they can refine and reinforce their skills by tutoring younger students and those who are struggling.

Tutoring is a great way to gain experience as a volunteer, but there are other actions that support one’s local community: volunteering at a soup kitchen, an animal shelter, or a library can help kids learn the value of service and the importance of giving back while becoming role models.

2. High School AP Courses

Advanced Placement courses are introductory college and university courses offered to advanced high school students. These courses vary depending on one’s high school. The most commonly taught ones are Chemistry, Biology, English, History, and Calculus, but some schools offer AP Computer Science , Art and Design, Geography, Economics, International Languages, and more. At the culmination of these courses, students have the opportunity to complete an exam which can allow them to use the course for college credit.

They are an excellent means of getting a leg up and saving some money in college, but they are also great opportunities to see how university differs from high school and how to go deeper into their interests. AP courses are intentionally challenging, and they might be the hardest academic experience yet for many high school juniors and seniors. But by completing AP courses, students can gain confidence and expertise that can serve them well throughout their lives.

Join our live online, expert-led introduction to Java that also maps to AP Computer Science Java (APCSA) requirements, and is certified by the College Board.

3. Put the “A” in “STEAM”

Creative pursuits are never a waste of time. Especially for students, organized creative activities such as painting, music, cooking, and theater have incredible benefits for a growing mind. Learning music reinforces the patterns, logic, and relationships in both math and reading. Drawing and painting have long been primary ways in which students of Biology, Geography, and Architecture relate to the world around them , especially before the advent of photography and smartphones. Even with these advanced technologies, drawing a living organism by hand is a painstaking but mesmerizing activity that improves knowledge of physical biological structures.

The acronym STEAM was first advocated as a replacement for STEM by the Rhode Island School of Design, which argued that the creative arts help integrate the skills required for STEM while also helping students to become more well-rounded, expressive, and organized. Aside from patience, problem solving, and attention to detail, art is itself a transformative process of discovery, both of the artist herself and of the world around her.

When it comes to relationships of power, a lack of self awareness, self control, and patience are hallmarks of bad leadership, so by learning through creation, students can gain some small mastery over their young, illusive selves, something which even many adults. Studies have shown that these benefits are nearly universal, helping struggling students to learn better and giving high achieving students a low-stress outlet to help them decompress, which has been shown to reduce headaches in teenagers .

4. Student Government, Clubs, Publications, and Organizations

One of the most enduring opportunities for volunteering for high school students has long revolved around student government, after school clubs, student journalism, and national organizations. While the most obvious might be student council, where students run for election by their peers, many high school students might struggle with this level of direct, public leadership. For students who are more introverted, running for office can be a great way of stepping outside their comfort zone, but if that sounds too uncomfortable, then chess club, STEM clubs, and coding clubs are great options.

By setting goals, working in teams, and producing work such as a yearbook, a student newspaper, an amateur TV program, or a coding club, students can gain immense satisfaction and confidence that can propel them toward excellence, sparking a desire for future success. For artistic students who are interested in technology, courses in digital design in Photoshop or Canva and game design in Unity are great interdisciplinary activities for high school students.

Success is rarely achieved through talent or interest alone, but requires hard work and dedication above and beyond what is expected. While students should balance extracurricular activities to support and not hinder their education, it can be a fundamentally important experience to run for office or become a member of a club.  At the core level, these activities teach students to put more effort into their education than the baseline of simply attending school and doing one’s best.

5. National STEM Honors Society, National Honors Society, and National Merit Scholarship

These organizations encourage high school students to strive towards excellence as academics, but also as members of their communities. The National Honors Society recognizes academic excellence, while providing opportunities for scholarships, community service, and national competitions that help on resumes and college applications. There is also a specific National STEM Honors Society to help drive equality and community engagement in STEM education.

National Merit Scholars follow a similar tack, by providing recognition and financial support to students who achieve good grades in high school. Especially for lower income students, these resources are an excellent way to narrow the economic/educational achievement gap and open opportunities for students wondering how to fund their higher education .

6. Future Business Leaders of America

The FBLA is an organization dedicated to guiding future leaders in global business and entrepreneurship. Representing values of equality, diversity, and economic development, the FBLA helps over 200,000 students every year to become community-minded leaders through a variety of initiatives including competitions, workshops, scholarships, and conferences.

7. Sports and Gaming

Team sports are a great way for high school students to develop leadership skills . By leading a team, students must be able to organize others, train effectively, and adapt to rapidly changing situations, skills valued everywhere. Studies have found a direct correlation between exercise and higher test scores in STEM and language arts. Without even being a team captain, team members learn how to work with others to achieve a common goal, where communication and support are crucial. These are directly related to leadership.

But it doesn’t stop there: for less socially inclined people, there are other opportunities such as jogging, yoga, and swimming that can engender physical strength, endurance, better sleep, and resilient mental health. Sports teach team building, and exercise is a key component of building positive relationships with health, sleep, and proper diet , but the team work and competition aspects of sport extends to other forms of gaming. Board games and video games can be social or solo, but they provide students with a chance to problem solve, to imagine solutions to complex problems, and to have fun. While video games can disrupt sleep when they are played too late, and while many parents might worry about gaming being a waste of time, some studies have shown a positive correlation between video games and increased test scores in reading . Within moderation, we feel that gaming can be a stimulating, fun, and social activity for all ages.

8. Build Community Around Your Passions

Let’s take this a step further: students can learn better when they actively participate in their education . Likewise, students are likely to be motivated to learn better when they are pursuing something that they are already interested in , but they learn especially well when they are helping or teaching others . For this reason, we suggest that you get involved in your child’s passions and support their interests, even when they seem unrelated to your desired plan for your kids.

Video games and creative expression are excellent tools to reinforce learning STEM, but they are also doorways into STEAM, especially when it comes to Computer Science, coding, reading, and math. For example, ask any child under the age of 14 about Minecraft and Roblox . Chances are they have played one or the other, and considering how popular they are, your child probably already knows a lot about one or the other, if not both. What most kids and parents don’t know is that these are also great platforms for learning about coding , game design , and logic.

There’s a lot of tutorials online, but we suggest that coding classes are one of the best ways to encourage kids who love gaming to learn how to code. As one of the most in-demand skills and one of the areas of highest growth potential in the future tech-driven economy, learning to code early is a great way to get ahead. At Create & Learn, we believe that the future leaders of tomorrow will need to be comfortable with code, so we offer a range of live online courses for kids of all ages to learn computer programming in relation to gaming, art and design, robotics , and software engineering. We even have free coding classes led by experts to try.

9. FIRST Robotics and Robotics Competitions

If your high school student loves STEM, then FIRST Robotics is for them. FIRST Robotics is a national robotics competition that joins teams of students from around the country to design and build large robots that will work together with other teams to complete in a field game of some kind. Students also gain experience in fundraising and representing their schools in competitions. These teams are often the best of the best when it comes to STEM students, who also gain valuable experience in coding and programming their robots using Python or other programming languages.

10. The Importance of Structured Activity and Free Time for Teens

Time use is a topic that can provoke strong debates among parents, educators, and students. A longitudinal study on high school educational outcomes and time use shows that merely participating in extracurricular activities has been associated with positive improvements in academic performance and pro-social behaviors. These activities are important, because many children and teens have not yet had enough experience to know the options available to them. They must be shown and sometimes gently encouraged to try new things.

These activities provide them with communities of their peers as well as adult role models who can shape their self perception and their expectations towards leaders, both positively and negatively. It has been shown that too much unstructured time has been linked to disorders such as substance abuse and antisocial behavior in high school students. Structure is good for kids.

There is a fine line to walk however, as having no free time to be at ease among one’s peers can result in stunted social development and lower levels of autonomy as adults. All this is to say that if you want your child to learn leadership skills, then extracurricular activities of any kind can support that goal, but that too much activity and not enough free time can begin to have an adverse effect on academic performance and mental health.

Try leadership activities and examples for high school students

As a next step, speak with your child. Ask them what they think they are best at? What could they teach others? Encourage them to think about themselves as potential leaders, but then ask them, How could you become better? We suggest encouraging them to pursue two or three activities from the above list, each of which should aim at physical exercise, academics, and creativity. A sport, a club, and an artistic practice.

Keeping it simple and following their interests is a great place to start. But then we suggest signing up for an AP High School class, taking an online coding class , or perhaps a community painting or drawing class to light the creative spark that they might not have expected. Push them, gently, to explore their boundaries and be ready to encourage them at every step without getting too worried if they change directions. If you’re looking for an activity to begin today, you could check out some of our other articles on the top online coding bootcamps for kids and Math competitions for high school students .

Written by Bryan Gordon, a Create & Learn instructor. After ten years of working as an English teacher, Bryan began studying Math and Computer Science over the past few years. Aside from writing and teaching, he likes cooking, gardening, playing guitar, and hanging out with his cats, Baguette and Wally.

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My favorite part of teaching Leadership class is also the most underrated: having the chance to strengthen life skills! 

When else do active listening, empathy, or thinking outside the box get to be the focus of class time? I love it! These are the types of things we hope students pick up somehow but rarely have opportunity to teach explicitly.

Leadership skills, especially at the middle or high school level, encompass many life skills—communication, compassion, teamwork, creativity, and social-emotional intelligence. It goes way beyond just leading people.

The best part is being able to plot precisely in the year a particular skill is best to focus on so they carry more meaning. Like practicing speaking skills right before an assembly. Or doing a gratitude lesson during November. 

If this is your first time teaching Leadership, you aren’t able to fully predict which skills need work and when. So, give yourself grace and take lots of notes during your first year. Then, before the following school year, use them to plan out your calendar.

Below are 5 of my favorite activities to teach essential leadership skills. These come from my  year-long leadership skills activity bundle , which includes 30 one-hour print-and-teach lessons. 

1. Build Team Work by Hosting a Scavenger Hunt Swap

This activity is perfect for right at the start of the year!

Divide your students into groups of 3-4, giving each a shopping bag and a blank sheet of paper, and head outside. Be sure to review the defined boundaries for this activity (ex. “ on campus, except parking lot ”).

Give groups a few minutes to brainstorm ten items that are 

• findable and accessible on campus
• nobody’s personal property
• fit inside the provided bags

Some examples could be a rock from the courtyard, a napkin from the cafeteria, a sticky note from the attendance office counter. 

Gather up the lists, then randomly pass them back out to groups. With all members sticking together in their group, they must find the items on their list within a set amount of time.

Debrief by asking:  “What was the most challenging part of moving together as a team?”

Click to get more fun  teambuilding lessons .

2. Practicing Microphone Speaking Skills

Plan this one right before the first assembly. 

Ahead of time, type up a bunch of questions that take just a few words or a sentence to answer. Just be sure the questions are ones  every  student can easily and comfortably answer. So, no sensitive or personal questions. 

Cut them into slips for students to pull randomly.

Some examples of questions to ask: 

• Would you ever go skydiving? 
• What’s your favorite season and why? 
• Is a hotdog a sandwich?
• What’s your favorite meal?

Head down to the auditorium or gym (wherever you hold assemblies!) and power up the microphone. Stand in a line or circle, pull a question, and have students, one by one, answer the questions in the microphone. 

After several rounds, students should know how close to hold it and how loudly to speak and feel confident with their own voice. 

Start with questions that require only one-word answers and work up to ones that require a sentence. 

Debrief by asking:  After several rounds, what trick seemed to work the best to speak loudly, clearly, and confidently?

Click here for more print-and-go  speaking and listening lessons .

3. Strengthen Relationships among Students

This one is great to do a few weeks into the school year since it’s a more vulnerable team-building activity. 

Grab a bunch of paper lunch bags and hand one to each student to decorate with well-known things that represent them—sports a part of, instruments played, clubs a member of, stuff like that. 

Task students to bring something that fits inside the bag representing an aspect them that  isn’t  widely known. Like someone who likes to cook for their family bringing in a bottle of their favorite spice or a someone whose happy spot is the beach bringing in a seashell. Without showing anyone, students put their item into their bag.

Put the filled bags into a box and have students take one out. Have them examine the outside to see if they can guess the owner. Then, pull out the secret item and guess what it might represent. The owner can then share a bit about what the bag and item mean.  

Debrief by asking:  How can we create a group where we feel safe sharing our inner selves?

Click for more great  lessons on   building healthy relationships .

4. Practice Creative Thinking with Oops Art 

Save this one for a less hectic time of year since it can be scheduled at any time. All you need are some basic art supplies like paint, scissors, glue, and construction paper. 

Get a copy of the children’s book  Beautiful Oops!  by Barney Saltzberg  and read it aloud with students or have them each read a page aloud, then pass it on to the next. Yes, even high schoolers get a kick out of storytime!

Saltzberg includes nine “oopses” in the book, like a tear or paint spill. Assign each student one to create. 

Redistribute them back out, challenging students to now create a masterpiece out of the oops they got. Afterward, make a bulletin board display out of the artworks.

Debrief by asking:  How can we remind ourselves to look for the beauty in or a new purpose for a “mistake”?

Click to get more  creative and problem-solving lessons .

5. Encourage Goal Setting with a Bucket List 

This works well at many points in the year—the start of the school year, the new year, or second semester. Or even right before summer break!

This activity shows students that leadership skills include personal leadership too!

Decide a number theme that works for when you’re doing this:

• 18 Things to Do in 180 Days
• 9 Challenges for the 90 Days of Summer
• 11 Things to Do by the End of 11 th  Grade

Start by having students take a minute or two to close their eyes and envision how the perfect summer or school year would look. You may also want to make and share your own bucket list with students. 

The trick to a successful bucket list is to have a range of activities. Accomplishments shouldn’t all be expensive, time-consuming, or outside of comfort zones. A few “reach” goals should be balanced with ones that are free, can be done solo or at any time, and don’t much of time. 

Since lists  should  be personal, just ask for volunteers to share an item on their list to close the lesson.

Debrief by asking:  What’s something you’re excited to do that you’d never thought of until this activity?

Click here for more ready-to-go  mindfulness and personal growth lessons .

I hope these activity ideas help you incorporate more leadership skills into your classroom! 

Get all these activities as ready-to-go leadership lessons in my  Leadership Skills bundle , complete with teacher guides, warm-ups, handouts, and exit slips. With over 30 hour-long lessons to pick from, you will be set for the whole school year!

Feature image photo credit: Perry Grone

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15 Leadership Activities for High School Students

• School Leadership

Introduction:

Leadership is an essential skill for personal and professional growth. High school is an ideal time to develop and cultivate leadership qualities, as students are beginning to discover their passions and interests. In this article, we present 15 leadership activities that can help high school students enhance their skills and become better leaders.

1.Team Building Exercises: Organize team-building activities such as group projects, scavenger hunts, or problem-solving tasks to encourage collaboration and communication among students.

2.Leadership Workshops: Host workshops or seminars on essential leadership qualities such as decision-making, time management, delegation, and conflict resolution.

3.Volunteer Work: Participate in community service projects to learn the importance of giving back and taking responsibility for one’s community.

4.Model UN: Join or start a Model United Nations club in your school to develop diplomatic skills, global awareness, and public speaking abilities.

5.Student Government: Run for a position in your school’s student government to gain experience in decision-making, negotiation, and team management.

6.Peer Mentoring Programs: Establish a peer mentoring program where older students guide younger ones through schoolwork or extracurricular challenges, fostering teamwork and empathy.

7.Debate Club: Participate in a debate club to hone persuasive communication skills and develop critical thinking abilities.

8.Leadership Books and Discussions: Form a book club to read and discuss books about leadership or influential leaders from various fields.

9.Group Presentations: Encourage students to work together on group presentations, promoting collaboration, accountability, and public speaking skills.

10.Guest Speakers: Invite local leaders or professionals to speak about their experiences, providing invaluable insights into leadership in different contexts.

11.Problem-Solving Activities: Engage in activities that require creative problem-solving techniques like brainstorming sessions or mock business scenarios.

12.Role-Playing Scenarios: Use role-playing games or simulations to practice leadership skills in a fun and interactive environment.

13.Sports and Fitness : Participate in team sports for both physical and mental development, as well as instilling the value of teamwork and discipline.

14.Clubs and Organizations: Join or start clubs that focus on your interests, allowing you to develop your leadership skills while expanding your knowledge in a particular area.

15.Leadership Retreats: Organize or attend leadership retreats to further enhance students’ skills by immersing them in an environment dedicated to personal growth and development.

Conclusion:

High school students can benefit significantly from engaging in these 15 leadership activities. Participating in these activities will not only help students develop crucial skills for their future careers but also imbue them with the confidence and empathy necessary to become effective leaders. Fostering leadership qualities at a young age can lead to all-around personal growth and open doors to great opportunities in the future.

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15 Leadership Clubs & Activities for High School Students

As leaders, teens can learn, collaborate, and grow. But leadership skills don’t just appear overnight, young people need the right extracurricular outlets to develop them. These 15 ideas for high school activities and clubs can help them discover new hobbies, expand on their interests, and become amazing leaders.

Taking on a leadership role can be incredibly empowering, but as the expression goes, it’s not about the destination, it’s about the journey. High school is a wonderful time to start a transformative journey that could shape their lives for years to come. 

Leadership activities for teens

To get things started, talk with your teen about their interests. There’s no question that leaders assume a lot of responsibility, and these responsibilities are a lot easier to shoulder if they’re doing something they love! That could be sports, STEM, the arts: there are possibilities for just about any hobby or extracurricular activity.

That said, high school is a wonderful time to audition for a play, even if they’ve never set foot on stage or try coding even if they’re a total newbie. Branching out can be very rewarding as well! (You can apply that same thinking to high school elective courses as well.)

So, check out these 15 ideas, encompassing both specific organizations and broad categories alike for launching leadership in high school and beyond. 

1. Future Business Leaders of America

Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) is a nationwide organization and competition that focuses on business, entrepreneurship, and leadership skills. Teens can learn about real-world business principles and take on competitive challenges. Through FBLA, teens can lead their competition teams and even win scholarship opportunities. 

2. National Honor Society & National Merit Scholars

These organizations challenge high-achieving scholars to engage with their communities in meaningful ways. Both National Honor Society and National Merit Scholars combine leadership with academics in ways teens won’t find in the classroom alone. 

3. FIRST Robotics

Like sports teams, robotics teams provide ample opportunities for projects, competition, hard work, and learning to work together towards a common goal. FIRST Robotics is one of many national organizations that encourage teens to bring their STEM skills into a thrilling arena. Read more about joining a robotics team here ! 

4. Volunteer work

Nothing can inspire teens like a worthy cause. Talk with your teen about how they’d like to get involved with an advocacy organization. Volunteering can help change the world and expand a young person’s horizons in very meaningful ways. 

5. National STEM Honors Society

Yes, there’s an honors society just for STEM! National STEM Honors Society engages students with year-round enrichment, competitions, and ample opportunities to become a STEM leader within their communities.

6. Student publications

Whether it’s a school newspaper, yearbook, literary magazine, or YouTube channel, student publications offer plenty of project-based opportunities for kids to take a lead. If your child loves the written word, getting involved with their high school’s writing-centric extracurriculars is a great idea. 

Team captains and managers take on a tremendous leadership role. From building morale to developing strategy, organizing logistics, and so much more on and off the field, athletics are a tried and true way to build leadership and character. 

8. Community engagement 

Community organizations come in all shapes and sizes. Groups centered on the arts, the environment, politics, or a religious community can make a major impact. And by contributing to that impact, teens can show how they care for important issues. 

9. Jobs and internships

There are some lessons that can only be learned in the working world. By adding a job or internship to their resume, teens show they can take the lead with real-world responsibilities. Especially if your teen can demonstrate getting promoted or taking on more complex duties, having job experience on their resume could give them a real boost in applying for that dream college or internship. 

10. STEM competitions

On the local, regional, and national scale, STEM competitions provide techie enthusiasts with the chance to lead, practice teamwork, and innovate on STEM projects. If you’re ready to jump in, check out our comprehensive list of 2022 STEM competitions . 

11. Student government 

It’s a classic for good reason! To succeed in student government, teens need to practice public speaking, developing a platform, and motivating others to achieve mutual goals. And if this appeals to your student, they might also love Model UN , government on a grander, global scale.

12. Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts

These organizations offer a wealth of different leadership opportunities in the outdoors, in their communities, and in honing a wide variety of skills. The Girl Scouts Gold Award and Eagle Scout status, the two highest accolades the organizations offer, speak volumes about the leadership skills participants have built over many years, and they give kids something to work towards!

13. Visual and performing arts

Whether it’s from the director’s chair, with a curator’s eye, or a choreographer’s moves, there are plenty of leadership opportunities in the arts. If your teen loves to perform, they can grow other talents in helping bring a creative vision to life. 

14. Cultural and language-oriented organizations

Connecting with other cultures is a wonderful way to broaden teens’ perspectives. This can be done through food, language, the arts, travel and many other avenues. Involvement in cultural organization can be indicative of a young person’s ability to step outside of their comfort zone, a key quality in a great leader.

15. Speech, debate, and mock trial

If your child dreams of a career in a courtroom or from behind a podium, these types of extracurricular activities might be a great fit. Not only can public speaking, debate, and mock trial be a team-based competition, success in any of these activities requires a high level of planning and teamwork. 

Leadership means lifelong learning

Good leaders are very knowledgeable. Great leaders never stop learning. That’s half the fun of getting involved with enrichment activities! 

As your high school student grows as a leader, there are endless opportunities to learn from others, about the world around them, and even about themselves. And as they prepare for college , careers, and more, that mindset can be even more valuable than impressive additions to their resume! 

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Meet id tech.

Sign up for our emails to learn more about why iD Tech is #1 in STEM education! Be the first to hear about new courses, locations, programs, and partnerships–plus receive exclusive promotions! AI summer camps , coding classes for kids , and more!

Virginia started with iD Tech at the University of Denver in 2015 and has loved every minute since then! A former teacher by trade, she has a master's in education and loves working to embolden the next generation through STEM. Outside the office, you can usually find her reading a good book, struggling on a yoga mat, or exploring the Rocky Mountains. 

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iD Tech Privacy Policy

Id tech privacy policy publish date: 10/26/2023.

internalDrive, Inc. (“iD Tech”) respects your privacy and recognizes the importance of your personal information. We are committed to protecting your information through our compliance with this Privacy Policy.

This Privacy Policy applies to all individuals who visit and/or use iD Tech/internalDrive, Inc.'s websites, services, and products that collect data and/or display these terms ("iD Sites & Services"). This Privacy Policy describes the types of information we may collect when you visit an iD Tech website, open an account or receive iD Tech Services and our practices for using, maintaining, protecting and disclosing that information. 

All references to "us," "we," or "our" refer to iD Tech/internalDrive, Inc.

All references to "child" or "children" refer to children  under the age of 13.

By accessing or otherwise using any of our iD Sites & Services, you consent to the terms contained in this privacy statement, including the collection, use, and disclosure of data as described below.

California Residents:  iD Tech’s  PRIVACY NOTICE FOR CALIFORNIA RESIDENTS  supplements the information contained in this Privacy Policy and applies solely to visitors, users, and others who reside in the State of California.

I.   Information We May Ask You To Provide

Through our iD Sites & Services, we collect information about you and/or your student when you choose to provide it to us. For example, we collect information from you so you can use iD Sites & Services, purchase products and services, register for and obtain an account, request information, apply for a job, register for one of our programs, or verify your age. In general, we may ask you to provide us with the following types of information about you and/your student:

• Contact information such as name, email address, mailing address, phone numbers (note to parents/guardians of children: if we have actual knowledge that a user is under 13 years old, the child will be asked to have their parent or guardian continue the registration process);
• Month, day, and year of birth;
• Gender preference;
• Course interests;
• Billing information such as credit card number and billing address;
• User names to third-party systems (for example, Facebook);
• Information provided on forums or chat rooms within our iD Sites & Services (note to parents/guardians of children: forums and chat rooms permit a child user to enter comments through which the child could provide personal information that would be visible to other users);
• Information included in résumés and job applications; and
• Health, any participation limitations or needs, immunization and allergy information.

Note to Parents/Guardians : We only collect the information described above, from someone we know to be a child, after the child's parent or guardian provides us with verifiable consent, unless one of the limited exceptions discussed below applies. For more information and/or to review these limited exceptions, please see the " Our Commitment to Children’s Privacy " section below. II.   Information Collected Automatically Cookies and other Tracking Technologies We may use cookies, web beacons, pixel tags, log files, Local Storage Objects, or other technologies to collect certain information about visitors to and users of iD Sites & Services, such as the date and time you visit iD Sites & Services, the areas or pages of iD Sites & Services that you visit, the amount of time you spend viewing or using iD Sites & Services, the number of times you return to iD Sites & Services, other click-stream or usage data, and emails that you open, forward or click through to iD Sites & Services. For example, we may automatically collect certain information, such as the type of web browser and operating system you use, the name of your Internet Service Provider, Internet Protocol (“IP”) address, software version, and the domain name from which you accessed our iD Sites & Services. We use this information to monitor and improve our iD Sites & Services, support the internal operations of our iD Sites & Services, personalize your online experience, verify e-signatures, and for internal analysis.

We may also use cookies, web beacons, and other similar technologies from third party partners such as Google for measurement services, better targeting advertisements and for marketing purposes.  These cookies, web beacons, and other similar technologies allow us to display our promotional material to you on other sites you visit across the internet.  Our third-party advertising partners may also use these technologies to identify your browsing interests over time and across different websites to deliver targeted advertisements. 

iD Sites & Services do not recognize “Do Not Track” headers or similar mechanisms.

iD Tech partners with Rakuten Advertising, who may collect personal information when you interact with our site. The collection and use of this information is subject to Rakuten’s privacy policy located at  https://rakutenadvertising.com/legal-notices/services-privacy-policy/ . Our Sites & Services may also use other third-party plug-ins to provide additional services and benefits. These third parties may collect information about you as well. When we use a third-party plug-in we will attempt to provide you with the identify the plug-in, so you can visit the sites of the third-parties to view the privacy policy under which the information they collect is identified and controlled. 

We may also collect geolocation information from your device so we can customize your experience on our iD Sites & Services. In most cases, you are able to turn off such data collection at any time by accessing the privacy settings of your device and/or through the settings in the applicable GPS application. Social Media You also can engage with our content, and other offerings, on or through social media services or other third-party platforms, such as Facebook, or other third-party social media plug-ins, integrations and applications. When you engage with our content on or through social media services or other third-party platforms, plug-ins, integrations or applications, you may allow us to have access to certain information in your profile. This may include your name, email address, photo, gender, birthday, location, an ID associated with the applicable third-party platform or social media account user files, like photos and videos, your list of friends or connections, people you follow and/or who follow you, or your posts or "likes." For a description on how social media services and other third-party platforms, plug-ins, integrations, or applications handle your information, please refer to their respective privacy policies and terms of use, which may permit you to modify your privacy settings.

When we interact with you through our content on third-party websites, applications, integrations or platforms, we may obtain any information regarding your interaction with that content, such as content you have viewed, and information about advertisements within the content you have been shown or may have clicked on. Information from Third Party Services We may also obtain other information, including personal information, from third parties and combine that with information we collect through our Websites. For example, we may have access to certain information from a third-party social media or authentication service if you log in to our Services through such a service or otherwise provide us with access to information from the service. Any access that we may have to such information from a third-party social media or authentication service is in accordance with the authorization procedures determined by that service. If you authorize us to connect with a third-party service, we will access and store your name, email address(es), current city, profile picture URL, and other personal information that the third party service makes available to us, and use and disclose it in accordance with this Policy. You should check your privacy settings on these third-party services to understand and change the information sent to us through these services. For example, you can log in to the Services using single sign-in services such as Facebook Connect or an Open ID provider.

III.    Your Ability To Control Cookies And Similar Technologies As noted, we may use cookies or similar technologies to monitor and improve iD Sites & Services, support the internal operations of iD Sites & Services, personalize your online experience, support the e-signature process, and/or for internal analysis. This includes the use of third-party cookies. We use these technologies to keep track of how you are using our iD Sites & Services and to remember certain pieces of general information. 

You have the ability to accept or decline cookies. Most web browsers automatically accept cookies, but you can usually modify your browser setting to decline cookies if you prefer. Check the “Tools” or “Help” tab on your browser to learn how to change your cookie and other tracking preferences.

If you choose to decline cookies, you may not be able to fully experience the functions of iD Sites & Services and/or some of our services will function improperly, in particular the inability to log in or manage items in your shopping cart. We do not share cookie data with any third parties. IV.   How We May Use Your Information We may use the information we collect from and about you and/or your student for any of the following purposes:

• Allow you to register yourself or your student with iD Sites & Services, or to otherwise register and open an account with us;
• Allow you and/or your student to use iD Sites & Services;
• Fulfill orders, process payments, and prevent transactional fraud;
• Respond to your or your student’s requests or inquiries;
• Provide you or your student with information about our products and services;
• Consider you for employment or a volunteer opportunity;
• Register you or your student in one of our programs;
• Verify your student's age;
• Monitor and improve iD Sites & Services, support the internal operations of iD Sites & Services, personalize your online experience, and for internal analysis;
• Protect the security or integrity of iD Sites & Services and our business;
• Facilitate the sale or potential sale of our business or any of our assets; or
• As required by law.

V.   How We Share Information We do not sell or otherwise share your or your student’s information with any third parties, except for the limited purposes described below. Parents/guardians of children under the age of 13 have the option of consenting to the collection and use of their child's personal information without consenting to the disclosure of that information to certain third parties.  

1.   Law Enforcement And Safety

We may access, preserve, and/or disclose the information we collect and/or content you and/or your student/child provides to us (including information posted on our forums) to a law enforcement agency or other third parties if required to do so by law or with a good faith belief that such access, preservation, or disclosure is reasonably necessary to: (i) comply with legal process; (ii) enforce the Terms and Conditions of iD Sites & Services; (iii) respond to claims that the content violates the rights of third parties; or (iv) protect the rights, property, or personal safety of the owners or users of iD Sites & Services, a third party, or the general public. We also may disclose information whenever we believe disclosure is necessary to limit our legal liability; to protect or defend our rights or property; or protect the safety, rights, or property of others.  2.   Service Providers; Colleges and Universities Information collected through iD Sites & Services may be transferred, disclosed, or shared with third parties engaged by us to handle and deliver certain activities, such as housing, meals, payment processing, mail/email distribution, software providers, and to perform other technical and processing functions, such as maintaining data integrity, programming operations, user services, or technology services. We may provide these third parties’ information collected as needed to perform their functions, but they are prohibited from using it for other purposes and specifically agree to maintain the confidentiality of such information. Some of these providers, such as payment processors, may request additional information during the course of offering their services. Before you provide additional information to third-party providers, we encourage you to review their privacy policies and information collection practices. 3.    Business Transfer During the normal course of our business, we may sell or purchase assets. If another entity may acquire and/or acquires us or any of our assets, information we have collected about you may be transferred to such entity. In addition, if any bankruptcy or reorganization proceeding is brought by or against us, such information may be considered an asset of ours and may be sold or transferred to third parties. Should a sale or transfer occur, we will use reasonable efforts to try to require that the transferee use personal information provided through our iD Sites & Services in a manner that is consistent with this privacy statement. VI.            Our Commitment To Children’s Privacy Protecting the privacy of children is paramount. We understand that users and visitors of our iD Sites & Services who are under 13 years of age need special safeguards and privacy protection. It is our intent to fully comply with the Children's Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA). 

Our iD Sites & Services are intended for general audiences. We do not knowingly permit anyone under 13 years of age to provide us with personal information without obtaining a parent's or guardian’s verifiable consent, except where:

• the sole purpose of collecting the name or online contact information of a parent or child is to provide notice and obtain parental consent;
• the purpose of collecting a parent’s online contact information is to provide voluntary notice to, and subsequently update the parent about, the child’s participation in our iD Sites & Services that do not otherwise collect, use, or disclose childrens' personal information;
• the sole purpose of collecting online contact information from a child is to respond directly on a one-time basis to a specific request from the child, and where such information is not used to re-contact the child or for any other purpose, is not disclosed, and is deleted by us promptly after responding to the child’s request;
• the purpose of collecting a child’s and a parent’s online contact information is to respond directly more than once to the child’s specific request, and where such information is not used for any other purpose, disclosed, or combined with any other information collected from the child;
• the purpose of collecting a child’s and a parent’s name and online contact information, is to protect the safety of a child, and where such information is not used or disclosed for any purpose unrelated to the child’s safety;
• we collect a persistent identifier and no other personal information and such identifier is used for the sole purpose of providing support for the internal operations of iD Sites & Services; or
• otherwise permitted or required by law.

If we receive the verifiable consent of a child's parent or guardian to collect, use, and/or disclose the child's information, we will only collect, use, and disclose the information as described in this privacy statement. Some features of our iD Sites & Services permit a child user to enter comments, such as forums and chat rooms, through which the child could provide personal information that would be visible to other users. If you are the parent or guardian of a child user, please advise your child of the risks of posting personal information on this iD Sites & Services or any other site. VII.           Parental/Guardian Rights If you are a parent or guardian, you can review or have deleted your child's personal information, and refuse to permit further collection or use of your child's information. To exercise any of these rights, please email us at  [email protected] or send your request to:

iD Tech ∙ PO Box 111720 ∙ Campbell, CA 95011 Client Service Toll Free Number: 1-888-709-8324

VIII.         Restrictions On Child Users Children under 13 years of age are prevented from accessing areas of iD Sites & Services which include, but are not restricted to, client account information, unless approved by their parent or guardian and any course content defined as age inappropriate by the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB). IX.            Forums And Chats We may offer forums and chat rooms. Please be aware that anyone may read postings on a forum or in a chat room. Furthermore, any information which is posted to a forum or chat room could include personal information, which would be disclosed and available to all users of that forum or chat room, and is therefore no longer private. We cannot guarantee the security of information that any user discloses or communicates online in public areas such as forums and chat rooms. Those who do so, do so at their own risk. We reserve the right to monitor the content of the forums and chat rooms. If age-inappropriate content or potentially identifiable information is seen, it may be removed or edited by us for security, privacy, and/or legal reasons. We will not republish postings from forums or chat rooms anywhere on the Web. X.             Links And Third Parties

At our discretion, we may include or offer third-party websites, products, and services on iD Sites & Services. These third-party sites, products, and services have separate and independent privacy policies. You should consult the respective privacy policies of these third parties. We have no responsibility or liability for the content and activities of linked sites, products, or services.

Our iD Sites & Services may contain links to other third-party websites, chat rooms, or other resources that we provide for your convenience. These sites are not under our control, and we are not responsible for the content available on other sites. Such links do not imply any endorsement of material on our part and we expressly disclaim all liability with regard to your access to such sites. Access to any other websites linked to from iD Sites & Services is at your own risk.  

XI.             Legal Basis for processing Personal Data and Your Data Protection Rights under the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR)

If you are a resident of the European Economic Area (EEA), iD Tech’s legal basis for collecting and using your personal information as described in this policy depends on the personal Data we collect and the context in which we collect it.  ID Tech may process your personal data:

• To provide the services which you requested or purchased;
• Because you have given us permission to do so;
• To provide you with better services, including conducting audits and data analysis;
• For payment processing;
• For marketing; and 
• To comply with the law

You have certain data protection rights. iD Tech aims to take reasonable steps to allow you to correct, amend, delete or limit the use of your Personal Data.

If you wish to be informed about what Personal Data we hold about you and if you want it to be removed from our systems, please contact us at  [email protected] .

In certain circumstances, you have the following data protection rights:

• The right to access, update, or delete the information we have on you. Whenever made possible, you can access, update, or request deletion of your Personal Data directly within your account settings section. If you are unable to perform these actions yourself, please contact us to assist you.
• The right to have your information corrected if that information is inaccurate or incomplete.
• The right to object. You have the right to object to our processing of your Personal Data.
• The right of restriction. You have the right to request that we restrict the processing of your personal information.
• The right to data portability. You have the right to be provided with a copy of the information we have on you in a structured, machine-readable, and commonly used format.
• The right to withdraw consent. You also have the right to withdraw your consent at any time where iD Tech relied on your consent to process your personal information.

Please note that we may ask you to verify your identity before responding to such requests.

You have the right to complain to a Data Protection Authority about our collection and use of your Personal Data. For more information, please contact your local data protection authority in the European Economic Area (EEA). XII.           International Visitors  (non GDPR Locations) Our iD Sites & Services are operated and managed on servers located in the United States. If you choose to use our iD Sites & Services from the European Union or other regions of the world with laws governing data collection and uses that differ from the United States, then you recognize and agree that you are transferring your personal information outside of those regions to the United States and you consent to that transfer. XIII.          Data Security Commitment To prevent unauthorized access, maintain data accuracy, and ensure the correct use of information, we have put in place reasonable physical, electronic, and managerial procedures to safeguard and secure the information we collect. We also use Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) protocol on your account information and registration pages to protect sensitive personal information. Sensitive data is encrypted on our iD Sites & Services and when stored on the servers.

XIV. How You Can Access, Request A Copy, Correct, Or Ask For Information To Be Deleted Access to certain personal Information that is collected from our Services and that we maintain may be available to you. For example, if you created a password-protected account within our Service, you can access that account to review the information you provided.

You may also send an email or letter to the following email or call the number provided to ask for a copy, correction, or ask us to delete your personal Information. Please include your registration information for such services, such as first name, last name, phone, and email address in the request. We may ask you to provide additional information for identity verification purposes or to verify that you are in possession of an applicable email account. Email: [email protected] Phone: 1-888-709-8324 XV. How To Contact Us/Opting Out Of Electronic Communications If you have any questions or concerns about this Privacy Policy or if you have provided your email and/or address and prefer not to receive marketing information, please contact us via email or call at the number provided below.  Make sure you provide your name as well as the email(s) and address(es) you wish to have removed. 

If you have signed up to receive text messages from us and no longer wish to receive such messages, you may call or email us at the address provided below. Please provide your name, account email, and the number(s) you want removed. Email: [email protected] Phone: 1-888-709-8324 XVI.         Terms And Conditions Your use of our iD Sites & Services and any information you provide on our iD Sites & Services are subject to the terms of the internalDrive, Inc. (referred to as “iD Tech”) Terms and Conditions. XVII.         Privacy Statement Changes We will occasionally amend this privacy statement. We reserve the right to change, modify, add, or remove portions of this statement at any time. If we materially change our use of your personal information, we will announce such a change on relevant iD Sites & Services and will also note it in this privacy statement. The effective date of this privacy statement is documented at the beginning of the statement. If you have any questions about our privacy statement, please contact us in writing at [email protected] or by mail at PO Box 111720, Campbell, CA 95011. XVIII.          Your Credit Card Information And Transactions For your convenience, you may have us bill you or you can pay for your orders by credit card. If you choose to pay by credit card, we will keep your credit card information on file, but we do not display that information at the online registration site. For your security, your credit card security number is not stored in our system.

We use state-of-the-art Secure Socket Layer (SSL) encryption technology to safeguard and protect your personal information and transactions over the Internet. Your information, including your credit card information, is encrypted and cannot be read as it travels over the Internet. XIX.         Social Networking Disclaimer iD Tech provides several opportunities for social networking for both participants and staff on sites such as Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Flickr, and YouTube. These sites are not affiliated with iD Tech and offer their own individual social networking services. Please read the following Terms and Conditions carefully, as well as the Terms and Conditions of the sites in which iD Tech has created a forum ("Group"). These Terms and Conditions are a legal agreement between you and iD Tech and apply to you whether you are a visitor to these sites or any site with an official iD Tech affiliation. iD Tech is a member of several pre-existing sites (as mentioned above). There may be, however, portions of  www.iDTech.com  that include areas where participants can post submissions. Any of the above-mentioned "Sites" (or other similar sites) have their own distinct rules and regulations. iD Tech reserves the right to take action to remove any content deemed inappropriate by the sites or by iD Tech standards. iD Tech will not be held liable for any loss of content or disagreements that may arise between the individual social networking site and the user. You understand that by registering for an iD Tech program, your participant(s) may access and upload content to social networking sites. In order to access certain features of the social networking sites or pages on iDTech.com, and to post Member Submissions, the majority of these sites require that the user open an account with them. Please note that these sites have their own individual Terms and Conditions that must be followed. Age requirements are outlined within each Site's Terms and Conditions. You hereby authorize your participant to access social networking sites while at camp and create an account if they choose to do so and if they meet the requirements listed by each site to create an account. Interaction with other users:

• iD Tech is merely providing a medium in which to socialize online with fellow participants. Users are solely responsible for interactions (including any disputes) with other Members and any volunteers that may advise and assist participants with projects and activities via your use of the iD Site & Services.
• You understand that iD Tech does not in any way screen Members or review or police: (i) statements made by Members in their Member Submissions or the Member Submissions in general; or (ii) statements made by Users or any information a User may provide via the iD Site & Services.
• You understand that your participant(s) is solely responsible for, and will exercise caution, discretion, common sense, and judgment in using the various iD Sites & Services and disclosing personal information to other Members or Users. 
• On behalf of your participant(s), you agree that they will take reasonable precautions in all interactions with other Members, particularly if they decide to meet a Member offline or in person.
• Your participant's use of the social networking sites with which iD Tech is affiliated, their services, and/or Content and Member Submissions, is at your sole risk and discretion and iD Tech hereby disclaims any and all liability to you or any third party relating thereto.
• On behalf of your participant(s), you agree that they will not harass, threaten, intimidate, bully, stalk, or invade the privacy of any individual in connection with your use of the social networking sites with which iD Tech is affiliated and their services, whether or not an individual is an iD Tech Member; and you further agree not to advocate such activities or to encourage others to engage in any such activities.
• On behalf of your participant(s), you agree they will not give their social networking information to an iD Tech staff member.
• You and your participant(s) should also be aware that under no circumstances are iD Tech employees allowed to give personal contact information for social networking sites. This must be arranged by the participant's parent/guardian through the People Services Department.

XX.        Copyright & Intellectual Property Policy: You agree that you and your participant will not use the social networking sites to offer, display, distribute, transmit, route, provide connections to, or store any material that infringes copyrighted works, trademarks, or service marks or otherwise violates or promotes the violation of the intellectual property rights of any third party. internalDrive, Inc. has adopted and implemented a policy that provides for the termination in appropriate circumstances of the accounts of users who repeatedly infringe or are believed to be or are charged with repeatedly infringing the intellectual property or proprietary rights of others. XXI.       Disclaimer:   BY USING THE SOCIAL NETWORKING SITES OR SUBMITTING A MEMBER SUBMISSION, YOU AGREE THAT INTERNALDRIVE, INC. IS NOT RESPONSIBLE, AND WILL IN NO EVENT BE HELD LIABLE, FOR ANY: (A) LOST, ILLEGIBLE, MISDIRECTED, DAMAGED, OR INCOMPLETE MEMBER SUBMISSIONS; (B) COMPUTER OR NETWORK MALFUNCTION OR ERROR; (C) COMMUNICATION DISRUPTION OR OTHER DISRUPTIONS RELATED TO INTERNET TRAFFIC, A VIRUS, BUG, WORM, OR NON-AUTHORIZED INTERVENTION; OR (D) DAMAGE CAUSED BY A COMPUTER VIRUS OR OTHERWISE FROM YOUR ACCESS TO THE SITE OR SERVICES. THE SITE, SERVICES, INTERNALDRIVE, INC., CONTENT, AND MEMBER SUBMISSIONS ARE PROVIDED "AS IS" WITH NO WARRANTY OF ANY KIND. INTERNALDRIVE, INC. AND ITS SUPPLIERS EXPRESSLY DISCLAIM ALL WARRANTIES, EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED, REGARDING THE SITE, SERVICES, INTERNALDRIVE, INC., CONTENT AND MEMBER SUBMISSIONS, WHETHER THE PROVISION OF SERVICES OR YOUR SUBMISSION OF A MEMBER SUBMISSION WILL PRODUCE ANY LEVEL OF PROFIT OR BUSINESS FOR YOU OR LEAD TO ECONOMIC BENEFIT, INCLUDING ANY IMPLIED WARRANTY OF QUALITY, AVAILABILITY, MERCHANTABILITY, FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE OR NON-INFRINGEMENT. IN ADDITION, INTERNALDRIVE, INC. MAKES NO REPRESENTATION OR WARRANTY THAT THE SITE OR SERVICES WILL BE ERROR FREE OR THAT ANY ERRORS WILL BE CORRECTED. SOME STATES OR JURISDICTIONS DO NOT ALLOW THE EXCLUSION OF CERTAIN WARRANTIES. ACCORDINGLY, SOME OF THE ABOVE EXCLUSIONS MAY NOT APPLY TO YOU. XXII.         Indemnification:   You agree to defend, indemnify, and hold iD Tech, its officers, directors, employees, and agents, harmless from and against any claims, liabilities, damages, losses, and expenses, including, without limitation, reasonable attorneys' fees and costs, arising out of or in any way connected with: (i) your access to or use of social networking sites, their services, iD Tech Content and Member Submissions; (ii) your violation of these Terms of Use; (iii) your violation of any third-party right, including, without limitation, any intellectual property right, publicity, confidentiality, property, or privacy right; or (iv) any claim that one of your Member Submissions caused damage to a third party or infringed or violated any third-party intellectual property right, publicity, confidentiality, property, or privacy right.

iD Tech Terms & Conditions

Id tech general terms & conditions publish date: october 26, 2023.

These Terms and Conditions apply to all pages found at www.idtech.com  and all Programs operated by internalDrive, Inc. (referred to as "iD Tech") including but not limited to iD Tech In-Person programs and iD Tech Online Programs. These terms apply to all lessons, classes, courses, and options offered by iD Tech (hereinafter referred to individually as “Program” or collectively “Programs”).

Privacy Policy: By using iD Tech’s website, registering you or your student for a Program, and/or affirmatively giving your agreement, you are agreeing on your own behalf and that of your student to abide and be bound by the Privacy Policy found HERE and the Terms and Conditions contained and referenced herein.

Online Programs: If you are purchasing, or you or your student is participating in an Online Program you also agree on your own behalf and on behalf of your student, to be bound by the additional terms and conditions found HERE .

On-Campus Programs: If you are purchasing, or you or your student is participating in, an On-Campus Program, you also agree on your own behalf and on behalf of your student to be bound by the additional terms and conditions found HERE .

I. Code of Conduct

To promote the best learning environment possible, all students and parents will be held to this Code of Conduct. Failure to comply with this Code of Conduct or engaging in actions or attitudes that seem to be harmful to the atmosphere, other participants, or staff, in the opinion of iD Tech can lead to removal from a Program or Program(s). iD Tech reserves the right to dismiss students from a Program and prevent a student from attending additional Programs without any prior warning for (1) violating any of the terms of this code of conduct, or (2) if iD Tech determines that a Program is not a suitable and/or productive environment for a student (this includes incidents in which a student does not have sufficient English language skills to participate in the Program; participation in courses requires a high level of English understanding). Refunds will not be given for students dismissed for failure of the student or the parent to abide by the Code of Conduct, or if it is determined that a Program is not suitable for a student. While iD Tech strives to maintain excellent relationships with students, in some rare cases, we may determine that iD Tech is not a compatible environment for every student.

Students and parents/guardians may NEVER:

• Disrupt, bully, intimidate, or harass others;
• Use inappropriate language (for example, students cannot use of swear or curse words, racial, gendered, homophobic/transphobic, stereotypical, or culturally insensitive words, even if done in a joking manner);
• View, display or post any inappropriate material (including sexual content, material depicting inappropriate violence, racism, bullying, etc.) during a Program;
• Share Program information (including lesson plans, etc.) with third-parties, without permission from iD Tech;
• Impersonate another person; or
• Contact instructors outside of the Program.

Students also may NEVER:

• Engage in Internet hacking;
• Create an account on or log into third-party websites without the permission of their instructor;
• Use false information to create an account on or log into third-party websites;
• Share personal information with staff members or ask staff members for their personal information;
• Share or create video or audio recordings of iD Tech staff or another student without the permission of iD Tech.

Students and parents/guardians MUST:

• Follow directions/instructions of iD Tech personnel;
• If online, ensure the student attends the Program in an appropriate, private setting;
• Dress appropriately during the Program;
• Adhere to the terms of use of any sites used, including following the specified age policies; and
• Only share material that is related to lessons and appropriate.

II. Age Policy

iD Tech offers Programs for students ages 7-19. Therefore, students may interact and/or room with a student that is within this age range including 18 or 19 years old. Please note the age range of the Program being registered for.

If a student is 18 or 19 years old and participating in an On-Campus Program, they must successfully pass a criminal and sexual offender background check prior to being allowed to attend. Clients are responsible for all costs and fees associated with any background checks required for a student to attend.

III. Special Accommodations

If a student requires an accommodation to participate, or needs an aid to attend in an iD Tech Program, a parent/guardian must call iD Tech at 1-888-709-8324, no less than three weeks prior to your student’s first day of the Program to make needed arrangements.

If a student requires an aide to participate in an iD Tech Program, the aide must be age 18 or older, may not be a family member, and if it is an On -Campus Program, the aide must successfully pass a criminal and sexual offender background check prior ro being allowed to attend with the student. Aides may also be subject to fingerprinting. Clients are responsible for all direct costs, including background check processing fees, parking, and compensation for the aide’s attendance.

IV. Payment Policy

• Unless otherwise noted, all financial transactions are made and quoted in U.S. Dollars.
• All Payment Plan Fees, fees paid for Online Programs, and the $250 per week deposit for On-Campus Programs are non-refundable and non-transferrable.
• Other than if iD Tech needs to cancel a class, there are no refunds, credits or replacement days for classes missed. If iD Tech needs to cancel a class, iD Tech will either provide you a pro rata credit or reschedule the canceled class(es).
• If iD Tech cancels an entire Program for any reason, the fees paid for the Program will be refunded, less the non-refundable fees, as set out above. Non-refundable fees (other than the Payment Plan Fee, if any) will remain in your account as a fully transferable credit that is valid for three (3) years.
• iD Tech has the right to charge a $25 late fee on any payments not paid by the due date. For balances that are over 30 (thirty) days past due, iD Tech has the right to charge a 1% monthly finance charge and send the balance to a collection agency for collection (collection agency and legal fees may apply).
• All fees (registration, administrative, late, etc.) must be paid prior to the start of a Program, unless a payment plan has been agreed to. Students will be withdrawn from a Program if the Program has not been paid in full prior to the start of the Program, or if at any time a payment is not paid by the due date. No refunds, credits, or make-up classes will be provided if a session is missed due to a delinquent payment.
• By agreeing to a subscription or payment plan, you are authorizing iD Tech to auto charge the credit card on file as agreed at the time of purchase and as set out in My Account.
• A $35 returned check fee will be assessed for any checks returned or card transactions that are not honored.

V. Reservation Changes

To provide outstanding Programs, we may have to limit your ability to make changes (such as registering for a different course or changing attendance dates) and/or cancel a Program. Please reference the Terms and Conditions for specific Programs (linked above) for the rules and restrictions for changes and cancellations for that Program.

VI. Promotions and Discounts

Promotional discounts are limited to one discount per student. There may be other limitations as to how they apply, and codes must be submitted at the time of registration. iD Tech will not honor retroactive adjustments, and the total discounts received cannot exceed the total cost of the products purchased.

The Refer-a-Friend Program is a voluntary Program that applies to Small Group Classes and In-Person Programs.

• Each Referral Code can be used a maximum of 10 times. The code can only be used by students attending iD Tech for the first time (may be limited to certain Programs) and must be applied at the time of registration.
• A tuition credit will be given for each new student that registers for an In-Person Program or Small Group Class using a referral code and attends the course for which they registered.
• The Refer-a-Friend Program does not apply to siblings.
• Students may not refer each other to both qualify for the Refer-a-Friend Discount.
• Tuition credit will be applied after the referred client registers, pays in full and attends the Program. If the referred friend cancels his/her Program, the credit will be removed, and you will be responsible for any account balance that is created as a result of the lost credit.
• All tuition credits must be used in the Program term in which they are earned, can be used to offset Program tuition and other fees incurred, but do not entitle you to any form of payment.
• Tuition credits have no cash value.

VII. Certificates/Vouchers

All certificates/vouchers are non-refundable, non-transferable, and not redeemable for cash. Certificates/vouchers must be redeemed at the time of registration. Certificates/vouchers are valid until the specified expiration date, without exception. They are valid for up to the amount issued, and any amounts not used are forfeited.

VIII. General Releases

• Media Release: As a condition of participation, you authorize iD Tech and its partners to take photos, videos, images, audio, and testimonials of and/or from you and your student and agree that said content may be used by iD Tech in promotional materials, marketing collateral, and online media. These images, testimonials, photos, videos, and audio may be shared and used by corporate partners, the media, or other organizations that work with iD Tech. You also agree that all projects and work created by your student during an iD Tech Program may be used by iD Tech in promotional materials, online, and other print media, and may be shared and used by corporate partners, the media, or other organizations that work with iD Tech. You understand that iD Tech, its owners, agents, partners, facility providers, and employees will not be held liable for damages and injuries associated with use of any content released herein, including any and all claims based on negligence. You agree that all images, testimonials, photos, video, and audio taken at or in connection with an iD Tech Program are the sole and exclusive property of iD Tech, and that iD Tech has a royalty-free, perpetual license to use copies of all student work and projects created at an iD Tech Program.
• Name and Likeness Release: As a condition of participation, you authorize iD Tech and the press to use your student's full name and likeness in print, radio, TV, and other mediums.
• Project/Hardware Release: Some iD Tech Programs are project-based. In such instances, iD Tech will attempt to provide your student with the knowledge to produce a working project. Some iD Tech Programs include take home hardware. In those instances, iD Tech will send home a product or voucher for a product. However, there will be instances when a project or product or product voucher cannot be sent home, posted, or delivered, and you agree that iD Tech is not responsible if the game, project, product or voucher does not work properly and/or is not compatible with outside systems. You release iD Tech from any responsibility for failure to provide a copy of the project or product voucher, or a non-functioning/non-compatible/non-complete game, project, product voucher or product. Refunds will not be issued for not receiving products, product vouchers, or being provided a copy of the project, and/or non-functioning/non-compatible/non-complete projects, product vouchers or products. If you have issues with a product voucher or product, you must contact the manufacturer directly. Product vouchers only cover shipping within the continental U.S. Therefore, if you require the product to be shipped outside the continental US, you are responsible for all shipping and handling costs.
• Software Accounts: Some iD Tech Program activities require creation and/or use of an online account or require an online account to be created for your student. You consent to create or have iD Tech create account(s) as needed for your student to participate in Program activities. During non-instructional time, students may have access to websites that require accounts to be set up. While it is against iD Tech rules for students to set up accounts without their instructor’s permission, there may be instances where a student may create an account without the knowledge of iD Tech or its employees. In such instances, you release iD Tech and its employees from any and all responsibility and liability for accounts created by your student without iD Tech’s knowledge.
• Game Ratings: iD Tech takes its corporate responsibility and iD Tech family values very seriously. However, we cannot guarantee that younger students at iD Tech will avoid all contact with or mention of games rated "T" for Teen, or "M" for Mature. iD Tech will make a concerted effort to minimize both direct and indirect exposure to any games not rated for a student’s age group. Students attending courses designed for older ages have a greater chance of being exposed to materials rated for that older age group. If a student is attending a course for ages 13+, they may be exposed to games rated "M" for Mature by the ESRB (Entertainment Software Rating Board). You voluntarily assume any and all risks, known or unknown, associated with your student’s exposure to game content at an iD Tech Program.

IX. Indemnification

You agree to defend, indemnify, and hold internalDrive, Inc.,iD Tech, its officers, directors, employees, and agents, harmless from and against any claims, liabilities, damages, losses, and expenses, including, without limitation, reasonable attorneys' fees and costs, arising out of or in any way connected with your student’s participation in an iD Tech Program.

X. Arbitration Agreement

You agree that any dispute other than collection matters, arising out of or relating to this Agreement, you or your student's participation in a Program with internalDrive, Inc., or otherwise arising between the parties, including, without limitation, any statutorily created or protected rights, as permitted by applicable state/provincial or federal laws, shall be settled by arbitration to be held in Santa Clara County, California, in accordance with the Commercial Rules of the American Arbitration Association, and judgment upon the award rendered by the arbitrator(s) may be entered in any court of competent jurisdiction. The prevailing party in the arbitration shall be entitled to recover expenses including costs and reasonable attorneys’ fees associated therewith. Should any part of this contract be found invalid or not enforceable by a court of law, then the remaining portion shall continue to be valid and in force. You hereby acknowledge that you understand the terms of this ARBITRATION AGREEMENT, and you agree to comply with all of its terms and provisions.

XI. Rights Reserved

internalDrive, Inc. reserves the right to update or modify these Terms and Conditions at any time. iD Tech is not a university-sponsored program. iD Tech reserves the right to cancel or modify any and all classes, lessons, Programs or courses for any reason.

XII. Release of Liability

ON BEHALF OF MY SON/DAUGHTER/WARD, I, THE PARENT/GUARDIAN, IN EXCHANGE FOR THE RIGHT OF MY SON/DAUGHTER/WARD TO PARTICIPATE IN ID TECH PROGRAM(S), HEREBY RELEASE INTERNALDRIVE, INC., ITS OWNERS, AGENTS, PARTNERS, FACILITY PROVIDERS, AND EMPLOYEES FROM LIABILITY (INCLUDING CLAIMS BASED UPON NEGLIGENCE) FOR ANY AND ALL DAMAGES OR INJURIES TO MY SON/DAUGHTER/WARD OR DAMAGE OF ANY PERSONAL PROPERTY. I AGREE TO BE FULLY RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY AND ALL SUCH DAMAGES OR INJURIES WHICH MAY RESULT DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY FROM ANY NEGLIGENT ACTS OR ACTIVITIES ASSOCIATED WITH INTERNALDRIVE, INC. HOWEVER, I UNDERSTAND THAT I AM NOT RELEASING INTERNALDRIVE, INC., ITS OWNERS, AGENTS, PARTNERS, FACILITY PROVIDERS, AND EMPLOYEES FROM GROSS NEGLIGENCE OR INTENTIONALLY TORTIOUS CONDUCT. TO THE EXTENT THIS RELEASE CONFLICTS WITH STATE/PROVINCIAL LAW GOVERNING RELEASES, THIS RELEASE IS TO BE GIVEN THE FULLEST FORCE AND EFFECT PERMITTED UNDER STATE/PROVINCIAL LAW. SHOULD ANY PART OF THIS CONTRACT BE FOUND INVALID OR NOT ENFORCEABLE BY A COURT OF LAW, THEN THE REMAINING PORTION SHALL CONTINUE TO BE VALID AND IN FORCE. XIII. Copyright

iD Tech partners with and uses the intellectual property of some amazing companies. You and your student agree to uphold the copyright and trademark rights of iD Tech, their partners, and any company whose products are used at an iD Tech Program.

Student Leadership Activities & Lessons

Are you looking for fun, engaging, and educational student leadership activities? TEEN TRUTH is here to help! 

Over the years, our team has developed valuable student leadership materials and programs for our Student Leadership Summit . We are happy to share some of these activities with schools for free! You can also check out 3 FREE Student Leadership Worksheets and our Guide to Creating Student Leaders . Continue reading to check out some of our student leadership activities!

How to Motivate Your Student Leaders

We think it is important that our leaders understand the stages of MOTIVATION. If you want to motivate your leaders, you must first understand these three words:  COMPLIANT.  OBLIGATED.  OPPORTUNITY.

Leaders that are Compliant:   these types of leaders will NOT last.  Essentially these student leaders are just responding to the demands, rules, or will of the adviser.

Leaders that lead out of Obligation:   these types of leaders are taking a step in the right direction because they feel some responsibility, but still, in the end, their mindset is more of a HAVE TO versus a GET TO.

Leaders that see the Opportunity:   these types of leaders need little or zero external support.  They see their leadership role as an opportunity to serve, to give back, to make a difference, to create school spirit.  These types of leaders are self-motivated to go above and beyond.

3 Ways to get your leaders to SEE the OPPORTUNITY:

Leadership Starts with You, but it’s Not About You: help student leaders see the bigger picture in why they do what they do.

Bigger than Self Cause: help student leaders understand that leadership needs to be about something bigger than themselves.

Plug into your Passion: help student leaders find something that they are passionate about and then encourage them to use that passion to serve (lead) others.

We know that in order to build great programs we need leaders who lead from OPPORTUNITY, not obligation or compliance.

Free Student Leadership Activity & Lesson Plan

When there’s a job that must be done, where should a leader start? There are a handful of answers to this question, but not all of them are equally effective. We’ve designed this lesson plan so that your student leaders would have the opportunity to learn and truly understand one of the most important concepts behind great leadership: a unified outlook on the mission, the vision, and the values of the group.

If you’re looking for a lesson plan that will teach your student leaders how to rally together and create a focused, collaborated effort, then this is ideal for you. So, without further delay, here are the objectives and the  link to the free lesson plan !

Leadership Objective

1. To have student leaders understand the importance of “pulling on the same side of the rope” with examples from real life.

2. To have student leaders know the importance of mission, vision, and values.

3. To have students leaders know the difference between a company with No Mission vs. Knowing the Mission vs. Being on a Mission.

Download Lesson: Mission Vision Values Lesson

Use This Simple Activity to Ignite Your Student Leaders

Have you or your leaders ever heard someone say:

• “We’ve always done it this way!
• Or, “It worked last year, so let’s just do it again this year.”
• Or even, “Why change anything? That’s just more work.”

These statements are completely DE-motivating to new and returning leaders in your program.  They diminish any hope of creativity and freshness!

On the other hand, student leaders naturally want to CREATE, to make their own mark, to explore new roads to school spirit and service.

Here’s Our Leader Creativity Activity

That’s why we created this simple activity. It’s designed to help launch a discussion on how current student leaders can BUY into what your program is trying to accomplish.

My Favorite Decision-Making Tool for Leaders

In my last grad school class with Dr. Garcia, he handed me a sheet with a large oval in the middle. Around the outside of the oval were several small circles. He said, “JC, I like what you’re doing with TEEN TRUTH, but you’ll have some big decisions coming up. This little tool should help. Imagine that big oval is your giant meeting table, and the people on the outside of this table are your board of directors. They’ll help guide your decision process whenever you have questions or troubles.”

I understood the value of the exercise immediately, and filled that puppy out that same night. My board of directors included all of the heroes from my life: my parents, my old football coach, Martin Luther King, Dr. Garcia, and of course Batman.

That sheet has never steered me wrong, so I was delighted when TEEN TRUTH’s activity director, Stephen Admundson, submitted the exact same assignment for your student leaders!

CLICK HERE to download Dr. Garcia’s board of directors leadership activity.

My board of directors sits here at my desk for me to view anytime I need.  The question is will you take the time to write down your board of directors? Or will you just pass this assignment on to your students?

My hope for you is that Dr. Garcia’s leadership activity can guide you and your students, just like it has for me.

A Quick But Effective Leadership Exercise

For this simple but effective leadership exercise, everyone needs a pen and a paper. Place a blank sheet of paper in front of you, in the landscape direction. And use the following script: We are all going on a vacation. Close your eyes. Keep them closed and I will tell you when it is okay to open them. We are going on a vacation to a tropical island, so draw an island in the middle of your paper.

• To the left of the island, draw a ship
• You are surrounded by water, so put some fish in the sea
• This is a tropical island, so put a palm tree on the island
• It is a nice day, so put some birds in the air
• That ship didn’t get there by itself, so put a sailor on the ship
• The sailor might get hungry, so put some coconuts on the palm tree
• Sailors like to see where they are going, so put portholes on the ship
• Sailors like to see entertainment, so draw a hula dancer on the island
• It is a sunny day, so put a sun in the sky

Okay everyone open your eyes and see how you did…200 points possible. Person with the most points wins!

• 10 points if your island is in the middle
• 10 points if your ship is to the left of the island, but not touching it
• 15 points if you have more than one fish
• 20 points if the base of the palm tree is on the island
• 15 points if more than two of the birds are in the air
• 20 points if the sailor is on the ship, not swimming
• 15 points if any coconut is on the tree
• 25 points if any porthole is on the ship
• 25 points if the hula dancer is dancing on the island
• 20 points is the sun is to the left
• 15 points if the sun is to the right
• 10 points if the sun is in the middle

LEADERSHIP LESSON EXPLANATION USING THE ACTIVITY EXPLAINED ABOVE:

• Don’t rush the PROCESS, rather enjoy it. Don’t be in a rush to get to the PRODUCT.
• Prior Planning Prevents Poor Performance
• Trust the vision even though you can’t see the end product.
• Guidance is key. Model what you want others to do.
• Go Beyond. Go the 2nd Mile. Exceed Expectations. (More fish)
• Successful leaders have VISION.
• Take calculated risk. Don’t be afraid to “fail”.
• No idea (drawing) is a bad idea (drawing).
• Anticipate the little things and do them without being asked or told.

The Leadership Pyramid Progression Chart

As you meet with your student leaders to reflect on the past year, you may find this simple pyramid extremely helpful. The purpose of this tool is to guide your students to the next step of their leadership career. From the sort of leader who can handle only a few independent tasks all the to a leader who can make decisions autonomously with confidence, this chart will help point them to the next level.

Draw the pyramid on your board, and have students reflect on what each level means to them. Once you’ve highlighted the key components of each step, ask your students where they think they are and have them set goals for the future.

Four Levels of Leadership: https://fourseasonsofschoolculture.com/four-levels-of-leadership/

Each step in this process is an important developmental stage, and it’s a good idea to encourage your students to be honest with themselves and to recognize that, regardless of where they are starting, simply by taking the time to analyze their current leadership skills, they are utilizing an important ability which will improve them as leaders and as students.

Building Better School Leaders One Activity At A Time

If you end up using any of these student leadership activities, we’d love to hear how it goes!

For even more leadership resources check out: 

• TEEN TRUTH’s Leadership Summit
• Free downloadable student leadership worksheets
• How to build student leaders guide
• How to help leaders grow during the pandemic
• Student leadership themes  

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• Benefits Of Group Work
• Activities for Secondary Students
• Benefits and Ideas for After-School Programs
• Motivational Videos for Middle School Students
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From Classroom to the Boardroom: Leadership activities for high school students

Leadership development for high school students

Famous entrepreneur, leader and investor, Shaan Puri once heard someone describe themselves as Patient + Relentless . 

This got me thinking about what traits make great leaders.  

What leadership skills can set you up for success? 

Confident + Problem Solver

You could be working at Tesla or Twitch or an NGO or even McDonald’s. Regardless, at some point in your career you will need to guide people. 

And as forward-thinking high school students, starting early on developing your leadership skills gives you an edge. 

With the right ones, it could help you unlock your potential and pave the way for a successful future. 

When it comes to leadership activities, I am inevitably asked two things: 

• Why are leadership skills so important? 
• What are the best leadership activities to take part in?

The answer to the first question is easy - participating in leadership activities will help you build essential skills, like teamwork, communication, decision-making, and problem-solving. It is also a way to explore your interests and establish meaningful connections. 

The answer to the second needs a bit more attention. 

This blog reviews some exciting leadership activities that high school students like you can take part in to improve your leadership qualities. 

Why are leadership activities important for high school students? 

To be a good leader, you must have a good understanding of your strengths, your weaknesses and your emotions. 

Leadership skills can enhance every area of your life. 

High school is not just about academic growth. Your personal growth is just as important. 

The secret no one wants you to know is this: it’s actually all very simple.

• You have a great idea. 
• You can lead people. 

When you have strong leadership skills, you have the confidence to navigate any situation and you are better at making decisions. 

You will need to be able to develop a plan of action in any given situation. 

This is how leaders succeed. 

High school students who participate in leadership building activities tend to have higher levels of confidence and self-esteem because you are given opportunities to take on significant responsibilities and contribute to purposeful activities. 

It could be in one week or one month - the results show itself. 

Engaging in leadership activities can be transformative.  

Also, leadership activities help students develop and improve your soft skills, which are just as important. Skills such as communication, decision making, problem solving, teamwork, and time-management all help you navigate your career. 

Eventually you will realize that you are filled with a sense of purpose. With the responsibility that is entrusted on you, the contributions you make will be invaluable.  

The benefits of participating in leadership activities. 

Participating in leadership activities has a profound impact on your future, whether you’re in college, the workplace, one of the Big Four, or involved in your local community. 

Leadership is not just about leading people, but also about taking responsibility for yourself and your actions. 

Developing your character through leadership involves teaching yourself how to make ethical decisions; how to solve problems, and how to work collaboratively. 

Besides the known benefits of confidence and independence, they also provide you the opportunity to network and build meaningful relationships. 

You are also unconsciously training yourself to deal with people from different cultures, problem solve and work through ideas. 

The world runs on business - and your success depends on being able to convince people to choose your idea. 

These are few of the benefits:

• Develops critical thinking and problem-solving skills 
• Boosts confidence and self-esteem
• Enhances teamwork and communication skills 
• Develops time-management skills 
• Helps in decision-making 
• Improves leadership qualities 

Best Leadership Activities for High School Students

Finding the right activities can sometimes feel like mindlessly scrolling through TikTok. 

BUT THERE IS GOOD NEWS: You don’t have to look far. In fact, here are 8 different activities that we have curated for you. 

• Business bootcamps:  

As students you can benefit greatly from participating in youth-focused programs such as BETA Camp or other tech programs . Such cutting-edge programs provide training and experiences to cultivate leadership qualities within you. 

These learning experiences can be instrumental in building your confidence as well as shaping your personality. Plus it also helps you improve your resume and stand out from the crowd when seeking opportunities in the future. 

• Debate club: 

Joining a high school debate club will definitely help develop your critical thinking, communication, and persuasion skills. By engaging in structured debates, you learn to analyze arguments and identify flaws in reasoning. It’s one of the best ways to develop the ability to think critically and logically. 

• Volunteer work: 

Service learning projects are an excellent way to develop your leadership skills.  Participating in volunteer work or community service requires empathy, but you learn teamwork, and leadership skills too. 

As you give back to the community, you learn to be compassionate towards people, which teaches you to think beyond yourself and consider the needs of others. 

• Student government: 

Getting active in student government is another way to develop leadership qualities, practice decision-making skills, and grow your confidence.  By taking an active role in shaping the policies that affect your peers, you learn to weigh the potential outcomes of each decision. 

• Sports teams: 

Being a part of a sports team helps develop teamwork, communication skills, and leadership skills. Team sports teach you to work towards a common goal while respecting the strengths and weaknesses of others. 

• Public speaking: 

Entering in public speaking competitions is another great way to develop communication skills and confidence. What better way to learn how to convey your thoughts by expressing them in a clear, concise and convincing manner. For example, Toast Master or Model United Nations are good places to start with. 

Mentoring younger students or peers requires communication as well as problem-solving skills. By sharing your knowledge and expertise with others, you can help them develop new skills, while you learn how to guide and lead others. 

• Organizing events

Planning and executing events, such as fundraisers or community get-togethers require not only leadership skills such as decision-making, but also budgeting finances and delegation. Collaborating with others enables you to develop teamwork skills and gives you the opportunity to learn how to interact with others while respecting diverse opinions and ideas. 

What might start out as a boring, run-of-the mill activity can instantly turn into something that provides direction. 

A routine task might turn into an opportunity for growth and self discovery. 

How leadership skills can be transferred to academic and career pursuits.

High school education has the potential to mold students into successful individuals. However, it can also be daunting and overwhelming. With the proper strategies though, it is possible to navigate through these years successfully. 

The reason why you are on this page is because you have goals . 

You are ambitious. You want more out of High School. 

You know that right now it is essential to explore your interests, develop skills for your future and build connections with your peers. 

Academic education is a vital component, but it goes beyond just that. 

It’s nothing complex. 

And yet, it’s everything . 

For academic pursuits, leadership skills can help an individual develop effective communication skills, encourage collaboration and provide guidance and motivation. 

Similarly in the professional world, individuals who possess leadership skills can take on managerial roles and lead teams effectively.  

Moreover, when you demonstrate strong leadership skills, people are bound to push your name forward. 

BETA Camp graduates who have demonstrated leadership  

While we're on the topic of talking about successful leaders. Let’s look at a few leaders that have come out of our camp: 

• Rhett Jones  

A former student of BETA Camp who went on to become a successful entrepreneur. He is currently building Texas’ best public bike park in his neighborhood in Austin

From chess player to entrepreneur, Suma and her team built a successful productivity tool to help teens. 

• Rishi Kothari 

Rishi went on to raise over $1.6M for Otto after attending BETA Camp. He learned that without research, your product has no demand.  

From high school senior to creative agency founder, Jane honed her leadership skills at BETA Camp. She showed a keen interest in a creative field and was particularly interested in marketing. 

As a young entrepreneur she learned to communicate expectations with other team members.   

These are just a few examples of many successful leaders who have learned new skills with BETA Camp. 

Let BETA Camp guide you through skills that will set you up for success. The benefits of BETA Camp are many; it’s faster than anything else, it’s actually fun, and it will teach you skills you couldn't learn anywhere else. 

Be a Leader, Start today 

The best leaders are those who constantly strive to learn, grow and develop their skills. 

Leadership development is a great way to improve your leadership qualities, nurture your soft skills, and achieve your long-term goals. 

With the right tools, you can gain valuable insights into yourself, your team and the business environment. Whether it's joining a debate club or being a part of a sports team, high school students have plenty of choices to choose from.

Soon your traits will be not just Confident + Problem Solver , but Patient + Relentless or Fierce + Nerd or Creative + Strategic . 

If you want to be a leader and succeed in your personal and professional life, start participating in leadership activities today. 

Don't let the fear of failure hold you back, take the first step, and see the magic happen. Soon you will be able to lead with confidence and success. 

You can always start with BETA Camp .

Where will your startup journey take you?

Secure your spot in BETA Camp Summer 2024

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12 Leadership Passion Project Ideas for High School Students

By Alex Yang

Graduate student at Southern Methodist University

7 minute read

Leadership passion projects are initiatives pursued by student leaders to make a positive impact on others and their community. These projects usually stem from a genuine passion for a cause, issue, or goal, and they demonstrate a student leader's commitment to spearheading change and getting others involved. Such projects are often overlooked because of the more academically-focused passion projects that are out there, but we’ll discuss later how leadership passion projects can actually showcase a student’s skills and authenticity just as much as an academic project can.

If you’re thinking that the term “leadership passion projects” is a bit ambiguous, these 12 examples of leadership passion projects that you can get started on right away should help clarify what leadership passion projects can be.

What are some leadership passion project ideas?

Keep in mind that these are just a few of many ideas you can take on, and we encourage you to make these projects uniquely your own. Notice how the overarching theme for all of these projects is that you’re leading the initiative and making an impact within your community, while also contributing to development of your own leadership skills.

1. Peer Mentorship Program 

Create a program where upperclassmen mentor underclassmen in academic, social, or personal aspects, developing a supportive school environment. You can have students matched based on things like college major interest or personal hobbies. 

2. Community Garden

Establish a community garden on school grounds that students take care of, providing a hands-on learning experience about gardening, nutrition, and sustainability while producing fresh produce for local charities. 

3. Literacy Initiative

Create a reading program where high school students read to elementary school children, promoting literacy and fostering positive role models for younger children.  

4. STEM Workshops 

Organize science, technology, engineering, and math workshops for middle school students, sparking their interest in these fields and showcasing high schoolers' leadership and knowledge of STEM. See if you can get a high school STEM teacher to help with developing this initiative.

5. Creative Arts Showcase

Plan an arts and culture event that features student or even faculty performances in music, dance, theater, and visual arts, celebrating creativity within the school community. 

6. Career Exploration Series

Arrange sessions where professionals from various fields come to your school to share insights about their careers and their day to day jobs. This can help expose students to a variety of careers and get them starting to think about what may be interesting to them. Bonus points if you can find alumni from your high school to come speak!

7. Volunteer Outreach Program

Develop a program that connects students with local volunteer opportunities , enabling them to give back to the community and build valuable life skills. 

8. Mental Health Awareness Campaign

Organize events, workshops, and discussions to promote mental health awareness, reduce stigma, and provide resources for students struggling with mental health issues. 

9. Fitness and Wellness Challenges 

Launch wellness challenges that encourage students to engage in physical activities, healthy habits, and mindfulness practices to promote overall well-being.

10. Student-Led Workshops 

Organize skill-sharing workshops where students teach their peers about subjects they're passionate about. School is often so focused on faculty teaching students that we forget that students have a lot of knowledge that they can share with each other.

11. Language Exchange Program 

Establish a program where students can learn and exchange languages, fostering cultural exchange and language development in a fun way.

12. Entrepreneurship Fair

Organize a fair where students can showcase their entrepreneurial ideas and products, fostering creativity and business skills. If you’d like to make it more competitive, you can also turn it into a contest where teachers are judges and evaluate the various ideas.

We’ve mentioned how leadership passion projects involve spearheading an initiative, but this doesn’t always mean that you have to start an organization from scratch! If there are already existing clubs or organizations at your school that are doing work that you personally care about, join those and see if you can start participating. From there, you can then maybe work your way towards creating a new initiative and also brainstorm ideas with other students in the club.

As quoted in our conversation with John Gardezi of Edvanced Learning Academy , “You don't need to reinvent the wheel. You can still make a difference by making small contributions.”

Why are leadership projects important?

First and foremost, leadership passion projects provide a great opportunity for personal growth. By leading a new initiative or organization, you’re practicing what it takes to become a leader. You’re doing things like organizing events, delegating tasks, reaching out to outside parties and becoming a better speaker and thinking creatively to make things happen. Learning how to set a vision and execute on it is an incredible skill to have and it’s something you’ll be able to practice through a leadership passion project.

Further, you get to work for a cause that you care about. Whether that’s sustainability, mental health, or hunger, by doing a project you have the opportunity to actually make change. You’re making your mark. While doing so, you’ll also be able to collaborate with other students in your community and build great relationships as a result. Ideally, that cause that you care about could also be something you’re interested in studying in college, which strengthens your demonstrated interest as a college applicant. For example, let’s say that you are interested in sustainability and want to potentially explore that field more. You could take initiative on the community garden project idea in order to explore sustainability more deeply and this leads to a project where you’re not only learning about something you’re interested in, but also getting directly involved with it.

Moreover, all of these skills and learning experiences that you would get out of a leadership passion project are things that you can showcase to the world, whether that’s for a job, college admissions, or to just show what you’re capable of. In a Polygence guest blog post, former admissions officer Ben Bousquet talks about how he would advocate for college applicants, saying, “admission officers are storytellers. We tell your story to the admissions committee on your behalf…If you’ve created a strengths-based narrative in your application and weaved those strengths together into a compelling story, your admission officer should have no problem advocating for you.” The great part about leadership passion projects is that they can usually be explained in a way that creates an interesting story. You helped to jumpstart an initiative with this goal in mind and you worked super hard to execute it…you faced many challenges on the way but overcame them…and in the end you made an impact on your student community or a local one. These are great stories that you can share in your college admissions essays and interviews.

How can I find the leadership project that’s right for me?

Ultimately, this comes down to what you really care about. Making a new initiative happen is no easy task, and if you’re not passionate about the work that you’re doing, it can be very difficult to execute that initiative well. As a result, think about what causes you’re actually interested in and what you’d be willing to work hard for. Further, assess what existing clubs there are at your school and whether any of those stand out to you.

How can I showcase my leadership work?

Showcasing your leadership passion project is a bit different from showcasing academic research , as there usually isn’t a physical research paper or presentation that you can show off. Instead, it's the impact of your work and the behind the scenes work that got you there that you want to emphasize. As a result, try to find a way to document that behind the scenes work, whether that was finding the right volunteer organization to work with, or meeting with school administrators to pitch an idea to them. You can write down all the work that you did, or, if you’re willing, you can also try to vlog the work and create almost a documentary of sorts by the end. 

Making notes of all these things will help you easily recall all the hard work you put in and the skills you gained from the experience. This could then be turned into a blog post or even a quick video to explain all the behind the scenes work that you did to conduct your leadership passion project 

If your project is more about organizing events or shows, see if you can measure the impact of those events. Track the number of attendees, guest speakers, get written or verbal feedback from attendees about how the event went, and maybe even record an event or two to really show what you put together. Another idea is to create a social media page for your organization and take pictures and create posts for events that you helped make happen. This is your opportunity to really be creative!

In this article, we’ve discussed the power of leadership passion project ideas, listed examples of projects, and provided ideas of how to showcase your work .

If you’re eager to make an impact and interested in pursuing a leadership passion project, Polygence’s programs are a great place to start. You’ll have a mentor well-versed on leadership who can help guide you and help you overcome challenges in your leadership passion project journey.

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How To Develop Leadership Skills In High School: 5 Great Examples Of Leadership Activities

Pursuing and excelling at activities demonstrating your leadership skills can help your college application stand out to admission officers. Now, how exactly do you do that? This post will take you through how to develop your leadership skills and provide examples of leadership activities done by successful college admits.

If you are in the middle of your college application process, or even a few years out, it is likely, that you already know that extracurriculars are an integral part of your college application . But why? The fact is that extracurriculars bring your application to life . They demonstrate to admissions officers what kind of person you are and what kind of contribution you would make to their college community. At Crimson Education , we know that admissions officers are looking for hard-working, creative leaders that will contribute to their community: students that will apply themselves and work toward making their college community a better place. So, what does this mean for your application?

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How to Build Leadership Skills in High School?

First, what does it mean to be a leader? A common misconception is that leaders are always extroverted, loud, and direct. While this is certainly one type of leader, leadership styles are much more nuanced than that. In fact, there are as many types of leaders as there are types of people in this world. Being a successful leader means locating the issues in your community (this could be in your family, at your school, in your neighborhood, city, or country) and applying creative methods to solve that problem.

Another way to look at leadership skills is to think of the skills you already have (coding, sewing, reading etc.) and figure out where or how you can apply them to causes you care about. For example, say you love to draw, and you are interested in supporting a homeless shelter in your neighborhood. Well, you could illustrate a poster or postcard related to the cause of that shelter, then sell them, and all the proceeds could go to the shelter. You just conducted a full-blown fundraiser! Or say you are an avid coder and gamer and you are interested in supporting a restaurant in your town that is struggling due to the effects of COVID-19. You could offer to revamp their website (or create their website if they don’t already have one), which could boost their sales and/or give them a platform for delivery.

Both of these projects are wonderful examples of leadership extracurriculars because they demonstrate initiative and creative thinking. To be a leader means to be a problem solver - whatever that means to you and your community!

Developing Leadership in High School with Anjali Bhatia | Crimson Experts Interview Series Ep. 1

Examples of Leadership Activities for High School Students

Let’s look at more examples. Here is a list of leadership activities that Crimson’s successful college admits have pursued. Hopefully, this list will give you a jumping-off point when considering what leadership activities you would like to pursue.

1. Developing an App

Crimson student Miles created an app called FoodForThought, where restaurants and cafes across Auckland could post the leftover food from the day on the platform at a discount, allowing cost-conscious consumers to purchase high-quality food and beverages that would have been otherwise thrown away at the end of the day. Miles coded the entire project by himself and, with the help of his Crimson ECL Mentor, secured further funding for his company from an NZ-based angel investor.

Why is this a good leadership activity?

Miles noticed a problem in his community - food waste - and found a way to solve it using his skills (coding and app development). Additionally, Miles created this project outside a pre-established institution (his school or another volunteer organization). This tells admissions officers that Miles is not only able to solve problems in his community, but he is also a self-starter: someone who can develop projects from scratch. This project would therefore stand out on a college application.

2. Art and Health

Crimson student Annie created Art for Therapy, a project designed to improve the patient environment in therapy clinics. Often, people that go to therapy feel isolated by the sterile, hospital-like environment and the lack of inviting decor. Annie aimed to make patients more comfortable by donating student art to local clinics to improve attitudes and receptivity to therapy and recovery rates.

This project is unique, another quality that admissions officers look for in extracurricular activities. Annie clearly cares about health care and found a way to improve inpatients’ experiences without being a qualified nurse or doctor: she provided them with art! This project shows that Annie is an innovative thinker, persistent, and empathetic, all of which are great qualities to showcase on a college application.

3. Inclusive Journalism

Crimson student Adhithi is passionate about all-inclusive journalism. So, she and students from seven countries (that she met through Crimson Community) began working together to develop a news website that serves as an outlet to inform and highlight the impact of domestic disasters on an international scale. This website was dedicated to international and domestic politics. The target of this website was primarily students, but once the website started developing a solid reader base, Adhithi and her teammates worked to expand their writing by publishing their work in local newspapers.

This project is particularly strong due to its impact. Adhithi took advantage of the international community here at Crimson and expanded this project’s impact across continents. We can also see that Adhithi zeroed in on a problem in her community and sought a way to solve it. This project demonstrates Adhithi’s skills as an organized, driven, hard-working leader and illustrates her specific passion for inclusive journalism.

4. Athletics and Social Work

Crimson student Yuo is an enthusiastic tennis player who wants to solve a problem in his community. He saw that many perfectly usable tennis balls were discarded after games because they were not the standard needed for professional players, yet they were great for use by beginners. Yuo, therefore, started a project where he connected tennis clubs in his town with disadvantaged youth programs to help younger students learn the sport.

Once again, we have a great example of a student noticing a specific issue in their community and finding a way to be a part of the solution. This activity is strong because we see that Yuo was able to build upon another one of his extracurriculars: tennis. When writing out your list of extracurricular activities in your application, a good rule of thumb is that the more connections between your activities, the better. Not all your activities need to be related, but when 4-6 of them have something in common, it can help readers better understand who you are as a student and person.

5. Indigenous Awareness and Education

Crimson student Janela started a project to raise the consciousness of indigeneity in high schoolers called iSPARK. In early high school, Janela noticed that her textbooks barely included any material on indigenous history. She was shocked by this erasure, and it motivated her to fill in this gap in education by hosting a webinar series that provides a platform for indigenous people and scholars to share their experiences with high schoolers worldwide. In its final stages, iSPARK included over two hundred students around the US, two nonprofits, and school clubs who collaborated on collaborative projects to become allies with indigenous communities and initiate institutional reform.

This project demonstrates an ability to think critically; Janela has noticed a country-wide issue, and rather than be discouraged by its size, she has decided to channel her energy into correcting it, even if just in one small way. This is evidence of a persistent leader who can see beyond the here and now and conceptualize a brighter future. Additionally, we can see that this project has gained in size and impact over time, which is a quality that application readers look for.

Final Thoughts

Remember to start small and scale up, be honest and pursue what you are actually passionate about, and keep uniqueness, impact, problem-solving, and community in mind

If you would like more support building your leadership profile, enquiry with one of Crimson’s excellent Extracurricular Mentors below!

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9 Free Leadership Programs for High School Students

Joining a leadership program in high school is a great investment in personal and professional growth, especially while applying to college. Such programs offer a unique opportunity to develop essential leadership skills, enhance communication abilities, and foster teamwork. Engaging in leadership activities during your formative high school years will not only build confidence, but also instill a sense of responsibility and initiative. Additionally, participation in a high school leadership program provides a platform to connect with like-minded peers, mentors, and opportunities that can shape a promising future. It is a chance to gain practical experience, develop a strong work ethic, and lay the foundation for your successful and impactful leadership journey ahead.

However, most leadership programs often charge hefty amounts, or offer limited financial aid, which can be a deterrent for quite a lot of high schoolers. 

In this blog, we’ve highlighted 8 free leadership programs that you can make the best of! 

1. HOBY Youth Leadership

The Hugh O'Brian Youth Leadership (HOBY) is a renowned organization dedicated to empowering and developing young leaders. Named after actor Hugh O'Brian, who founded the program in 1958, HOBY aims to inspire high school students to become effective and ethical leaders in their communities. The organization hosts leadership seminars and programs across the United States, providing participants with opportunities for personal growth, community service, and networking. Through interactive workshops, discussions, and hands-on activities, HOBY aims to encourage students like you to explore your potential and make a positive impact on society. 

The program focuses on fostering qualities such as communication, critical thinking, and social responsibility, preparing you for leadership roles in your school and beyond. HOBY’s State Leadership Seminar welcomes school and community nominated students to 3-4-day seminars each spring and summer, with locations varying from the East Coast to the West.  

Location: See here  to find your closest State Leaderships Seminar location.

Dates: Dates vary, see here to find out when the State Leaderships Seminar is in your area. 

Registration: Students are nominated by other peers. See here . 

Eligibility: High school sophomores. 

2. Horizon 

Horizon offers trimester-long research programs for high school students across subject areas such as data science, machine learning, political theory, biology, chemistry, neuroscience, psychology, and more! It is one of the very few research programs for high school students that offers a choice between quantitative and qualitative research!  

Once you select a particular subject track and type of research you’ll be paired with a professor or Ph.D. scholar (from a top university) who will mentor you throughout your research journey.  You’ll work to create a 20-page, university-level research paper that you can send to prestigious journals for publication as a high school student. 

This program is a solid opportunity for you to pursue a research program in highly specialized fields, under the guidance of a top scholar.  The program also provides a letter of recommendation for each student, as well as detailed project feedback that you can use to work on future projects and on college applications. Apply here !

Location : Virtual

Summer seminar - June 24, 2024 - September 2, 2024

Fall seminar - October 23, 2024 - February 19, 2025

Lab dates are flexible, but you must apply 4 weeks in advance.

Registrations: Application deadline is May 21, 2024 for the summer cohort, and September 25, 2024 for the fall cohort 

Eligibility: High school students with good academic standing (>3.67/4.0 GPA) can apply. Most accepted students are 10th/11th graders! Only a couple of tracks require formal prerequisites, more details of which can be found here .

3. National Student Leadership Conference (NSLC)

The National Student Leadership Conference (NSLC) is a dynamic and immersive leadership program designed to help students who are seeking to explore their interests and develop essential leadership skills. Through a variety of specialized conferences in fields such as business, medicine, law, and more, NSLC provides you with hands-on experiences, engaging simulations, and interactions with professionals and experts in their chosen fields. 

This unique program not only fosters academic enrichment but also emphasizes the importance of leadership, teamwork, and critical thinking. With campuses at top universities across the United States, NSLC offers a transformative experience that will empower you to envision and pursue your potential future career path while honing the leadership qualities that will serve you well in any endeavor. Some of NSLC’s programs do require tuition, but the others don’t, so make sure to apply for the right one!

We have covered all there is to know about the NSLC in this blog. 

Location: The conference is hosted across 13 different prestigious universities, see here .

Dates: NSLC’s programs are split into many different fields of interest, with the dates varying. See here  for the full list and schedule. 

Registration: NSLC does have suggested seasonal deadlines, but will continue to accept applications if space is available in a program or on a program’s waitlist. Apply here . 

Eligibility: 6th-12th grade students. 

4. Sadie Nash Leadership Project

The Summer Institute by The Sadie Nash Leadership Project is a unique leadership initiative tailored for high school women and gender-expansive students aspiring to delve into the realms of diversity and inclusion within leadership. Spanning six weeks, the program encompasses enriching experiences such as field trips, workshops, and insights from guest speakers and leaders across the broader NYC area. 

Through mentorship, workshops, and community engagement, the Sadie Nash Leadership Project strives to amplify diverse voices, instill confidence, and cultivate a sense of agency in its participants.  By emphasizing the intersectionality of leadership and social justice, Sadie Nash is at the forefront of creating a generation of dynamic and socially conscious leaders poised to make a positive impact in their communities and beyond.

Location: Program available in New York, NY and Newark, NJ.

Dates: Summer Institute runs for 5 weeks at locations in Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, and Newark.

Registration: The application cycle for Summer Institute 2024 will open in the Spring of 2024.

Eligibility: Young women and gender-expansive youth who are enrolled in high school and live in New York City or Newark.

5. Bank of America Student Leaders Program

The Bank of America Student Leader program is a prestigious initiative designed to empower and inspire the next generation of community leaders. This competitive program provides high school students with a unique opportunity to engage in a transformative eight-week summer internship, gaining firsthand experience in nonprofit work and community service.  Through paid positions at local nonprofits, immersive leadership training, and a week-long leadership summit in Washington, D.C., participants develop essential skills, expand their understanding of social issues, and cultivate a commitment to positive change. The program, supported by Bank of America's commitment to youth leadership and community development, will equip you with the tools and networks necessary to make a meaningful impact in your community.

We have covered this program in detail here !

Location: Internship locations vary.

Dates: 8 weeks (Summer 2024).

Registration: Applications for the 2024 program are now being accepted through January 17th, 2024.

Eligibility: High school juniors and seniors.

6. MIT Leadership Training Institute

MIT conducts this annual Leadership Training Institute, spanning twelve Sundays in the spring. Participants are organized into small cohorts guided by Leadership Development Mentors. The experience involves introspective discussions on leadership principles, followed by the implementation of a substantial community service initiative addressing local issues. 

Additionally, a project development segment focuses on community service, translating acquired training into tangible social impact. 

For almost two weeks between February and May, the MIT Leadership Training Institute employs a dual approach of theory and practice to cultivate the leaders of tomorrow. Their sessions integrate a leadership development component, fostering confidence, character, and essential leadership skills. 

Location: Boston, Massachusetts.

Dates: Vary but fall between   February 11, 2024 to May 11, 2024.

Registration: Rolling admissions until December annually.

Eligibility: High school students. 

7. Subiendo: The Academy for Rising Leaders 

Subiendo, a competitive initiative hosted at UT Austin for high school rising juniors and seniors, provides an introduction to the McCombs School of Business. The program encompasses leadership seminars, case studies, campus tours, and interactions with current students. Participation in the program is entirely cost-free, with a particular emphasis on encouraging students from underrepresented groups to apply. During the week-long program, students will reside on campus, and all associated educational, boarding, and meal expenses will be covered by the University.

This program is designed to prepare young leaders, like you, in addressing the needs of the next generation by practicing with and talking through problem-solving issues in healthcare, energy/environment, and education. 

Location: Austin, Texas.

Dates: 5 days (June 11 – June 15, 2023).

Registration: January 31, 2023. 

Eligibility: High school juniors and seniors. 

8. Indiana University’s Young Women’s Institute

Throughout your visit, you will actively engage in a series of enriching experiences that include attending workshops conducted by distinguished faculty members from the Kelley School of Business and gaining valuable insights and knowledge. IU’s YWI also offers countless networking opportunities as you will get to interact with accomplished Kelley alumni and current peers, fostering connections that will extend beyond the day's events. 

A highlight of the program involves a hands-on exploration of a real-world business case project, allowing you to apply your skills in a practical context.  Additionally, the program serves as a platform for honing leadership and communication abilities, with tailored activities aimed at personal growth. Lastly, you will have the chance to connect with like-minded women who share a passion for business, creating a supportive community for ongoing collaboration and inspiration.

We’ve covered this program in detail here !

Location: Indiana University in Bloomington, Indiana. 

Dates: Dates vary, see here . 

Registration: TBD

Eligibility: Women who are juniors and seniors in high school. 

9. FBI NAA Youth Leadership Program

The Youth Leadership Program (YLP) by the FBI National Academy Associates aims to empower future leaders. Tailored to nurture the intellectual curiosity and impactful aspirations of exceptional young individuals, this Youth Leadership Program provides many opportunities that will allow you to flex your leadership muscle in a new and nationally-known setting (with the Federal Bureau of Investigation).

The overarching goal of YLP is to cultivate a community of influential leaders who are not only socially conscious, but also committed to serving others. By fostering connections through association, the FBI’s Youth Leadership Program endeavors to create a network of individuals dedicated to making a positive impact on the world.

Location: The FBI Academy in Virginia. 

Dates: June 20th-28th, 2024. 

Registration: Applicants should contact their local FBINAA Chapter and coordinate with the Chapter YLP Coordinator for specific information on that Chapter’s application process.

Eligibility: High school sophomores and juniors. 

If you’re looking for an incubator program that helps you establish a developed startup in high school, consider the Young Founders Lab! 

The   Young Founder’s Lab   is a real-world start-up bootcamp founded and run by Harvard entrepreneurs. In this program, you will work towards building a revenue-generating start-up that addresses a real-world problem.   You will also have the opportunity to be mentored by established entrepreneurs and professionals from Google, Microsoft, and X. 

You can access the application link   here !

Lumiere Research Scholar Program

If conducting independent research in leadership, business, or workplace practices interests you, you could also consider applying to the Lumiere Research Scholar Program , a selective online high school program for students, founded with researchers at Harvard and Oxford. Last year, we had over 4000 students apply for 500 spots in the program! You can find the   application form  here.

Also check out the   Lumiere Research Inclusion Foundation , a non-profit research program for talented, low-income students.

Mandy Brenner is a current junior at Harvard University. She is concentrating in History and Literature and loves to read and write in her free time.

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Purpose of the Character Development and Leadership Curriculum for High School and Middle School Students

The Character Development & Leadership Curriculum for High School and Middle School changes students, changes schools and changes communities. It improves students' understanding of what character and leadership mean and naturally translates into more effective behavior in school and in life. It is used in more than 3,500 schools across the United States.

To provide a deeper understanding, we are providing you with lesson plans from an entire unit. This is Unit 15 on Responsibility, which is paired with the topic of Employability and Workplace Skills.

Unit 15 Sample Unit – Online Platform Unit 15 Sample Unit – Traditional Version

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Curriculum Format

The Character Development & Leadership Curriculum for High School and Middle School utilizes a consistent set of 14 lesson plans to teach each of the 18 character trait units. This is both the simplicity and the beauty of this curriculum. It’s what the teachers love and the students come to rely on. Once the students understand the 14 lesson plans, they know what to expect, which provides consistency. At the same time, one ethical dilemma (for example) doesn’t look like the next, so each lesson plan is unique and fresh.

Below you will find the format for the high school and middle school lesson plans. Each lesson plan is aligned with the common core standards for English and ties into a specific learning style.

We want to hear from you!

14 Lesson Plans for Each Unit

(1 & 2) Definition/Quote Exercise

This is a nice way to introduce the trait and get students thinking and reflecting. To make sure students are on the same page, students are given the opportunity to define the featured trait. Then students are given quotes that pertain to the trait from people throughout history and asked to personalize and provide context.

Quote Exercise Example - Week 15

(3) Ethical Dilemma

Students are confronted with real-life scenarios that force them to use critical thinking skills, recognize potential options, understand the consequences of their choices and to ultimately make better decisions. Students initially write their answers down on paper, but the hallmark of an effective classroom is getting students up and moving around, forming debates and looking at the issues from diverse perspectives.

Ethical Dilemma Example - Week 15

(4) Topic Lecture

It is essential to provide students with relevant and research-based information related to the topic of the week. This information helps students move forward by knowing the facts. In addition to the lecture notes, visuals and handouts are provided in the curriculum.

Topic Lecture Example - Week 15

(5) Character Movies

To immerse students in the character trait of the week, 18 movies are provided that exemplify each of the 18 traits covered in the curriculum. All of the movies are rated PG or PG-13 and come with the curriculum. Specific scenes are identified that allow students to focus on the character trait without requiring them to view the entire movie. Thought provoking questions for each movie are provided to facilitate meaningful class discussions. As you might expect, students routinely rate the videos as their favorite part.

Character Movie Example - Week 15 Character Movie List

(6 & 7) Two Role Model Chapters from the Role Models textbook per Trait

This is the textbook that the students read. Using the Traditional version, teachers order classroom sets of the text. For those using the online version, the chapters are embedded. This book was originally written in 2004. Certain role models were kicked out of the book and others were added over the years. In 2023, we doubled the amount of role models in the book, providing 2 role models per trait. This allowed us to provide more diversity for the reader (historical and contemporary; men and women; ethnicity and race; perspective and political persuasion). We believe this book provides the reader with excellent role models to look up to and emulate. Discussion questions accompany each chapter.

Textbook Chapter - Week 15 Textbook Quiz - Week 15

(8) Local Community Leaders

Individuals from the local community are invited into the classroom to serve as a role models. It was one of the favorite parts of the class. I hope every teacher does this. There is a handout for these guest speakers to follow, but essentially they are to provide their life lessons to the next generation, “If I die tomorrow, what are the life lessons I will leave behind for the next generation.” Everyone can do this if given time to prepare and rehearse.

(9) Basic Skills

In order to effectively teach character, kids must be challenged intellectually, emotionally and behaviorally. Basic skills emphasize the behavioral aspect of the class. These basic skills provide a skill set that they can utilize on a daily basis, which will ultimately create small & huge differences in their lives.

Basic Skill: Interview Example - Week 15

(10) Leadership Principles

We believe that leadership without character is a failure of leadership. We also believe that it is also possible to have tremendous character and still be a less-than-average leader. Therefore, 17 leadership principles are presented and studied in this curriculum. These principles are delivered in the form of virtual lectures on our website by Dr. Hoedel and other leaders. Discussion questions are provided to initiate classroom discussions.

(11) Leadership Exercises

Many believe that leadership is not something that can be taught, rather it needs to be experienced. For each unit we provide a leadership exercise to give students the opportunity to work together as a team and develop leadership skills. These hands-on activities get kids out of their chairs, learning by doing.

Leadership Exercise Example - Week 15

(12) On-Line Blog featuring Current Events

On the website, there is a link to the blog. On this blog, Dr. Hoedel provides weekly posts to spur discussions about current events related to character and leadership. Each post generally contains a video, a summary, the author’s perspective and a section called, "Your Turn" where students provide their perspectives.

Visit the Character Development and Leadership Curriculum for High School and Middle School Blog

(13) World Wide Web Assignment

According to research, teenagers spend 6-8 hours a day with a screen (tv, computer, tablet or phone). This time is not always used positively. The WWW assignment allows students to find a video clip that represents the featured trait and add it into the program. Students also provide a summary statement about why the clip was selected.  Creative students can film their own clip as an alternative.

(14) Expository Writing Assignment

Each of the 18 units culminates in an expository writing assignment and formal oral presentation. All final projects examine core beliefs and positive character-related issues. This is expository writing, requiring students to put what’s in their hearts and their heads on paper. These formal written and oral language outputs meet the Common Core ELA and ELD demands and support the academic language skills tested on high school exit, college readiness, military and work placement exams.

Weekly Assignment - Week 15

The 14 lesson plans (listed above) are repeated over and over about a different character trait that is paired with a different topic (listed below) .

18 Character Traits/Unit Topics Chart

To learn more about potential methods of implementation of the Character Development and Leadership Curriculum for High School and Middle School Students, click one of the buttons below.

High Schools Middle Schools Alternative Schools

What separates this curriculum from other Social-Emotional Learning curricula is an emphasis on reading and writing. For each unit, students write a two-page essay and read at least one chapter from the Role Models textbook. The literature is clear that all curricula needs to be rigorous and academically challenging. There are high expectations placed on each child – students can’t just show up and get an A in this course.

We also designed the topics to be relevant and meaningful to a child’s life. It is very important that every student understands how each lesson plan will impact their future. Detailed lesson plans, an online blog, virtual lectures on leadership, overheads, PowerPoint presentations, quizzes, final exams, a syllabus, grading scales and everything necessary to teach this course is included with this curriculum.

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Top 5 Leadership Skills to Develop in High School

It’s no secret being a good leader will help you succeed in business. High school is the ideal time to start developing leadership skills—not because it will help your college applications (though it definitely will!), but because high school is a time and place where you’re exposed to a wide variety of people and experiences. You’ll take classes and extracurriculars that will teach you different aspects of leadership, and you’ll be able to learn from and with the people around you. Read on for our top five leadership skills to develop in high school. 

1. Being a team player.  This can be a tough one to wrap your mind around: even when you’re in charge, it’s not all about you. One major element of being a good leader is working  with  other people, not expecting them to work  for  you. You’ll have the opportunity to work on plenty of group projects in your high school classes, and most extracurriculars—drama, sports, debate team, you name it—feature team involvement of some kind. Make sure that you’re encouraging every member of your teams in order to boost morale and increase productivity. Here’s what being a team player looks like:

• Listening to other people’s ideas  with the willingness to implement them.
• Compromising for the good of the team and the project.
• Delegating . You shouldn’t shoulder all the work just because you’re in charge of the project; a good leader knows what to assign to others.

2. Independence.  Yes, it’s important to be a team player. But you also need to develop your independence; you’re not expected to think the same as anyone else. If you can do the following things, you’ll be able to confidently present yourself to others in a positive way  and  be more productive.  Here’s what being an independent leader looks like:

• Working on your own and making decisions without constant affirmation or supervision.
• Developing your own opinion, regardless of what the popular opinion is.
• Being comfortable standing your ground on issues you’re passionate about.

3. Communication : Being able to  communicate with others  is absolutely necessary for becoming an effective leader. You’ll never be leading in a vacuum; there will always be other people involved that need to know what your plan is in order to accomplish their jobs. Classes and extracurriculars like theater, English, and student government will all teach you valuable communication skills, as well as give you lots of practice. Here’s what communicating well as a leader looks like:

• Being comfortable giving presentations to large and small groups.
• Writing clearly. Emails and reports are part of practically every degree and job.
• Keeping everyone in the loop with project updates and developments.
• Being accessible, both in the way you talk and by being physically present.

4. Accountability : Accountable leaders follow through on their promises, whether they seem like a big deal or not. Deadlines are less flexible in the real world than they are in high school, and the stakes are higher. Use high school to practice keeping your commitments and  taking responsibility  for your mistakes. In high school this looks like:

• Not checking out of your classes partway through the year (even if you have a serious case of senioritis!).
• Completing your portion of a group assignment on time.
• Showing up for practice or rehearsal.
• Communicating with teachers, group/team members, and anyone else involved if you need more time or more support.
• Admitting when you’re at fault.

5. Creativity : Being a creative leader doesn’t necessarily mean that you’re a great artist or musician. What it does mean is that you can think about problems from multiple angles. Good leaders aren’t stumped when they encounter a roadblock; instead, they brainstorm ideas of how to get around the roadblock. Creative problem-solving takes a lot of brainpower, but it’s a defining characteristic of good leaders. Here are a few examples of creative problem-solving in high school:

• Resolving a scheduling conflict, either in your own class schedule or the school’s calendar of events
• Finding a new, less expensive venue for an event you’re helping plan
• Trying new ideas to help encourage people to donate canned goods for a drive
• It also might mean noticing a pain point and coming up with ideas to remedy it; for example, if you notice students wondering how to get more community service hours for college applications, you might  create a club  focused on volunteer work or plan a school-sponsored blood drive. 

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25 Summer Leadership Programs for High School Students in 2024

What’s covered:, 25 summer leadership programs for high school students.

• Summer Programs and College Admissions 

When admitting students, colleges look for applicants who have drive, passion, and strong leadership skills. If you’re looking for a summer experience where you’ll gain valuable skills and become a better leader, look no further than this article. The lessons you learn at a summer leadership program are skills that you can apply at school and beyond. 

Below, we’ve compiled a list of the best programs. Even though some summer programs can be a bit expensive, many of the ones listed here are free. As you go through this list, keep in mind that some of the most impressive summer programs are free and selective. 

1. Bank of America Student Leaders Program

Dates: N/A (eight-week program) 

Location: Varies Application Deadline: January 17 

Cost: Free 

The Bank of America Student Leaders program prepares a diverse group of community-minded young people for success in the workforce through leadership training. While employed in these eight-week paid internships, high school juniors and seniors will gain firsthand experience working with nonprofits such as the Boys and Girls Clubs of America and Habitat for Humanity.

Participants leave the program with a direct look at how nonprofits, governments, and businesses collaborate to meet local needs, as well as the skills needed to bring about positive change. The program includes a one-week in-person summit in Washington, D.C. where students will congregate and continue to develop their skills. 

Students are expected to be able to commit to 35 hours a week in person to participate in this program. 

2. University of Notre Dame Leadership Seminars

Dates: July 20 – 31

Location: University of Notre Dame Application Deadline: January 22 

Cost: $210 (a $60 application fee and a $150 enrollment fee upon acceptance) 

The University of Notre Dame hosts a competitive summer leadership seminar for high school juniors—only about 100 students are admitted annually. During the program, students will gain an introduction to collegiate academics, develop a commitment to community service, and receive college social experience to develop stronger leadership skills and gain insight into higher education.

In order to apply, students must submit a comprehensive online application that includes their transcript, a counselor report, and one letter of recommendation from a teacher, with the option to submit standardized test scores as well.

Tuition for the program, housing, and meals are paid for by the university.

3. Sadie Nash Leadership Project Summer Institute

Dates: N/A (six-week program) 

Location: New York City, New York and Newark, New Jersey Application Deadline: April 15 

The Sadie Nash Leadership Project Summer Institute is a special leadership program for women and gender-expansive high school students who want to learn more about diversity and inclusion in the context of leadership. The program is typically six weeks long and participants go on field trips, participate in workshops, and listen to guest speakers and leaders around the greater NYC area.

4. University of Pennsylvania Wharton School | Leadership in the Business World

• Session 1: June 9 – 29 
• Session 2: June 30 – July 20 
• Session 3: July 21 – August 10 

Location: University of Pennsylvania 

Application Deadline: April 3 

Cost: $10,999

The University of Pennsylvania ’s business leadership program is one of the most reputable and selective programs in the country. Offered to high school juniors, the program teaches business in the context of leadership through modules on negotiation, organizational strategy, business models, and management. 

During the 20-day program, students will attend a multitude of lectures from esteemed faculty, conduct research and speak with business leaders, and participate in a variety of simulations and field trips all while staying on the University of Pennsylvania’s campus. 

5. Kelley Women’s Leadership Institute

Dates: Varies

Location: Indiana University and online Application Deadline: Varies  

The Kelley Women’s Leadership Institute at IU is sponsored through the IU Kelley School of Business. This program is with interest in business careers and learning more about the college experience. During the programs, students participate in workshops, interact with Kelley alumni and staff, explore a business case project, and build valuable leadership and communications skills. 

6. Yale Young Global Scholars

• Session 1: June 23 – July 5
• Session 2: July 7 – 19
• Session 3: July 21 – August 2 

Location: Yale University Application Deadline: N/A

Cost: $6,500 

The Yale Young Global Scholars program is a competitive summer experience for current high school sophomores or juniors. YYGS offers sessions covering topics including politics, STEM, global literature and culture, and solving global challenges. During the program, students will attend lectures and discussions as well as work on an overarching capstone project culminating in a final student showcase.

7. Mercy University – Summer Leadership Academy

• Session 1: June 23 – 23
• Session 2: July 7 – 13
• Session 3: July 21 – 27

Location: Mercy University Application Deadline: Rolling 

The Mercy University Summer Leadership program is an intensive one-week session for rising high school seniors who want to learn more about careers in management and business. Admissions are selective, and students must have a cumulative, weighted GPA of 90% or higher to apply. 

Throughout the program, students learn about successful team building, and professional development, along with getting to explore a variety of careers while staying on campus. Students even visit different companies in NYC during one day of the program. The program recommends that students be nominated by a counselor or instructor; however a recommendation isn’t necessary to apply. 

8. Bella Abzug Leadership Institute Summer Program

• Session 1: July 1 – 12
• Session 2: July 15 – 26
• Session 3: July 29 – August 9 

Location: Bella Abzug Leadership Institute Application Deadline: N/A

The Bella Abzug Leadership Institute is an institute for female-identifying and gender-expansive youth aged 13 to 21. During the program, participants will meet female leaders, learn the skills needed to win debates and influence audiences, and participate in a series of leadership-building workshops.

Priority admission is reserved for youth coming from underserved schools or areas and $500 stipends are given to students for their participation in the program. 

9. Lott Leadership Program at the University of Mississippi

• Session 1: May 26 – June 28 
• Session 2: June 23 – July 26 

Location: University of Mississippi Application Deadline: January 26 

Cost: $1,000 

The Lott Leadership Program is a competitive month-long summer program for rising seniors. Students participate in debates about current events, explore careers in the federal government, and learn skills to become more effective leaders in their high schools.

During the program, students will take three courses and spend a week in Washington, D.C., meeting with leaders in politics and the nonprofit sector. To apply, students must be nominated by their school. Applicants are selected based on their interest in public service and community service, as well as their academic achievement.  

10. Brown University Pre-College Leadership Institute

• On-campus session 1: June 23 – July 5 
• On-campus session 2: July 14 – 26
• Online: June 24 – July 19

Location: Brown University  

Application Deadline: May 10 

Cost: $4,318 – $5,498

The Brown Leadership Institute is a highly selective two-week in-person program or four-week online program for 9th-12th grade students who want to learn how to become empowered leaders in their communities.

Students learn about topics such as social movements, educational equality, restorative justice, and activism. Students in the in-person section experience college life through additional activities. 

11. Global Leadership Adventures

Location: Varies Application Deadline: May 15 

Cost: $3,099 – $6,999

Designed for students ages 14 to 18, Global Leadership Adventures is a program for student travelers who want to learn to become global leaders through international cultural travel and immersion in a foreign country of their choosing. During GLA’s programs, students gain leadership skills through language learning and volunteering in a foreign country.

Students can choose from a wide variety of in-person global programs, each of which will let them engage in service learning and adventure. Students can apply online at any point during the application window. However, it should be noted that most programs reach maximum capacity by March.

12. Subiendo: The Academy for Rising Leaders

Dates: June 9 – 13 

Location: University of Texas at Austin Application Deadline: February 14 

Subiendo is a competitive program hosted by UT Austin for rising juniors and seniors in high school. The program introduces students to the well-regarded McCombs School of Business through leadership seminars, case studies, campus visits, and tours with current students.

The program is completely free for students, and students from underrepresented groups are encouraged to apply. Students will stay on campus over the course of the week and all educational, food, and boarding costs will be covered by the University.

13. Barnard College NextGen Leadership Institute 

• Session 1: June 30 – July 19  
• Session 2: July 22 – August 10 

Location: Barnard College Application Deadline: April 15 

Cost: $7,772 – $9,687 

The Barnard College NextGen Leadership Institute helps develop female leaders by dividing students into interest-based “tracks” and having them complete small group projects throughout the program. Open to all rising sophomores, juniors, and seniors, participants can choose one of four tracks—STEMinist, Writing and Literature, Global Humanities, and Art Movement and Performance. 

14. Chicano Latino Youth Leadership Project – Los Angeles Institute

Dates: August 2 – 4 

Location: University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) Application Deadline: March 17 

The Chicano Latino Youth Leadership Project hosts a summer leadership program for Los Angeles County students enrolled in a California high school. 50 participants are chosen each year to network with leaders in education, business, and political roles to better understand the role of public service in society. Students also learn about college and post-high school opportunities over the span of the weekend. 

15. Tufts Leadership for Social Change

• On-campus: July 7 – 19 
• Online: July 28 – August 9 

Location: Tufts University and online Application Deadline: May 15 

Cost: $3,800 – $5,500 

Open to any rising junior, senior, or recent high school graduate, the Tufts Leadership for Social Change pre-college program offers students the opportunity to develop their leadership skills. Participants discuss issues including educational inequities, environmental justice, public policy, and more. 

Students can choose to participate in an in-person or virtual edition of the program and will receive a single Tufts credit upon completion of the program. Social activities will be a major part of the program experience in the in-person experience.  

16. MIT Leadership Training Institute

Dates: February 11 – May 11 

Location: Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) Application Deadline: December 1 

MIT offers its Leadership Training Institute annually which is held over the course of twelve Sundays in the spring. Students are separated into small groups led by Leadership Development Mentors. They will reflect on what it means to be a leader before embarking on a large-scale community service project that aims to tackle a problem in the community. The program culminates in a final presentation of each student’s project. 

17. FBI NAA Youth Leadership Program

Dates: June 20 – 28 

Location: Quantico, Virginia Application Deadline: February 2 

This Youth Leadership Program is hosted by the FBI National Academy Associates, a nonprofit law enforcement leadership network. In this eight-day intensive program, students will engage in extensive coursework and instruction focused on the issues facing today’s youth and their individual talents.

The program is offered to high school sophomores or juniors.   

18. West Point Summer Leaders Experience

• Session 1: June 1 – 7 
• Session 2: June 8 – 14 

Location: United States Military Academy West Point Application Deadline: N/A

Cost: $625 

The Summer Leaders Experience at West Point is offered to rising high school seniors. It gives students insight into the lives of cadets in the U.S. Military Academy. Students will be mentored by current West Point cadets to develop their leadership skills through problem-solving and team-building challenges, academics, and tests of athletic caliber.   

19. Economics for Leaders

Dates: Varies 

Location: Varies Application Deadline: Varies 

Cost: $800 – $2,300 

The Foundation for Teaching Economics offers leadership seminars teaching economics at college campuses across the country to interested high school sophomores and juniors. Over the course of a week, students will learn the basics of economics, engage in leadership exercises, and take on various challenges. The program’s goal is to inform students about various concepts in the global economy and to help them develop new leadership skills.

For students who are unable to participate in person, a virtual program is also offered.

20. Fordham Summer Leaders Academy

• Session 1: June 24 – 27
• Session 2: July 8 – 18
• Session 3: July 22 – August 1

Location: Fordham University Application Deadline: Varies

Cost: $1,225 – $4,550

This summer leadership program blends academic coursework, college preparation, career exploration, and activities outside of the classroom, such as excursions in New York City. Participants will develop their leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills and gain firsthand experience with the Jesuit tradition of educating people so they can contribute to the future well-being of the world.

The program is open to rising sophomores, juniors, and seniors.

21. Boston Leadership Institute

Location: Boston, MA

Application Deadline: N/A

Cost: $599 – $4,297

The Boston Leadership Institute offers a variety of programs ranging from week-long dives into single subjects to three-week research projects in fields including science, engineering, medicine, and business. Students can participate in the programs as either residents or commuters.

22. Sorensen Institute for Political Leadership High School Leaders Program (HSLP)

Dates: July 13 – 27

Location: University of Virginia

Application Deadline: March 25

Cost: $3,300 (shared room); $3,700 (individual room)

This program for Virginia high schoolers aims to prepare them for civic leadership and public service. Students connect with other leaders and peers, promote civic engagement, and develop the skills needed to become effective advocates in their communities. Students will spend the majority of their time during this two-week program on the University of Virginia ’s Charlottesville campus living and learning like a college student.

23. Indiana University Rising Leaders Program

Dates: June 9 – 12

Location: Indiana University Bloomington

Application Deadline: March 3

Rising high school juniors who understand the impact they can have on society—and who are interested in learning how to find their voice and use it for the greater good—will want to check out this summer program. Participants build their leadership and communication skills while exploring academic programs, internships, and career opportunities in this free, four-day, residential summer program.

24. Maryland Leadership Workshops Senior High Workshop (SHW)

Dates: July 28 – August 3

Location: Washington College

Application Deadline: May 15

Cost: $1,200

Participants in this program enjoy an immersive college experience. Students live in college housing and eat in dining halls while learning about everything from leadership styles to advocacy to conflict management. There’s also an abundance of social activities including a talent show and “messy games night.”

The program is open to high schoolers in grades 9 through 12.

25. Ronald Reagan Student Leadership Program

• Session 1: June 17 – 21
• Session 2: July 8 – 12
• Session 3: July 29 – August 2

Location: Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum

This program fosters the leaders of tomorrow by engaging with the history and values of Ronald Reagan, the 40th President of the United States. Students will build foundational leadership skills and get the chance to put them into practice, interacting and collaborating with their peers. The program culminates with the creation of a Leadership Action Plan, a roadmap designed to foster positive change within the community.

Summer Programs and College Admissions

Summer programs can be a great way to boost your chances of college admission. Generally, the best programs you can attend are the ones that are free and selective. There are four tiers of extracurricular activities that colleges think about when reviewing applicants’ activities.

Tier 1 and 2 activities are the most impressive as they represent the most unique and impactful activities, such as being a highly recruited athlete or an award-winning science fair competitor. Tier 3 and 4 activities tend to be more common extracurriculars, such as holding school leadership positions or being on a debate team. Selective summer programs often fall into Tiers 3 and 4, but extremely selective programs can sometimes be considered Tier 1 or 2 programs.

Are you curious about how a summer leadership program might affect your chances of college admission? Using our free chancing calculator , you can estimate your odds of getting into hundreds of colleges and universities!  Our innovative program can help you calculate your chances of admission using your test scores, extracurricular activities, GPA, and more.

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15 Leadership Programs for High School Students

By Eric Eng

Leadership programs for high school students are crucial stepping stones in shaping the leaders of tomorrow. These programs enhance students’ leadership skills and prepare them for the challenges and opportunities they will face in their personal and professional lives.

This blog will explore 15 leadership programs specifically designed for high school students. We will delve into how high school students can exhibit leadership, the importance of student leadership in high school, and strategies for developing leadership among students.

Preparing high school students for leadership roles in the future is crucial in today’s rapidly evolving world. Recognizing this need, several prestigious institutions offer specialized leadership programs to nurture the next generation of leaders. These programs equip students with the skills, knowledge, and confidence required to excel in various fields, from business to politics.

1. National Youth Leadership Forum: Business Innovation

• Location: University of California, Berkeley, Yale University
• Cost: $4,245
• Program Dates: June 25 – July 2, July 6 – July 13, July 15 – July 22
• Eligibility: High School students

The National Youth Leadership Forum: Business Innovation is an intensive 8-day program that guides high school students through the journey of launching a startup. Set in the esteemed environments of Yale and UC Berkeley , the program combines academic learning and real-world business experience. Students engage in the 8 Days to Startup Challenge, transforming ideas into viable products through hands-on activities like business site visits and interactions with industry leaders.

From ideating to pitching, students make decisions critical to an entrepreneur’s success. They also learn to crowdsource ideas, gaining insights into market needs and customer preferences. This practical approach is enriched by site visits, where students see successful businesses in action, and lectures from business leaders, offering knowledge and inspiration.

2. Yale Young Global Scholars (YYGS)

• Location: Yale University
• Cost: $70 Early Action fee or $85 Regular Decision fee
• Program Dates: Session I (June 23 – July 5), Session II (July 7 – July 19), Session III (July 21 – August 2)
• Application Deadline: November 1 (Early Action), January 10 (Regular Decision)
• Eligibility: Ages 16-18 by July 21, 2024, fluent in English, current high school sophomore or junior.

Yale Young Global Scholars (YYGS) is a top leadership program at Yale University, designed for high school students aged 16-18. It introduces participants to university-level academics and fosters global discussions among students worldwide. YYGS offers sessions in various academic areas, challenging students academically and expanding their worldviews.

The program consists of seminars, lectures, and projects led by Yale’s faculty and experts. It spans science, engineering, and social sciences, allowing students to deepen their knowledge or explore new interests. This can guide their future academic and career choices.

YYGS is a melting pot of cultures, with students from over 120 countries. This diversity promotes open discussions and learning from different perspectives, enriching the educational experience. The program encourages collaborative learning, critical thinking, and leadership—skills crucial for today’s global leaders.

3. National Youth Leadership Forum: Engineering

• Location: University of California, Berkeley, Georgia Tech , University of Michigan, Olin College of Engineering, Carnegie Melon University
• Cost: $4,195 – $4,245
• Program Dates: June 16-23, June 25-July 2, July 6-13, July 15-22

The National Youth Leadership Forum (NYLF) on Engineering introduces high school students to the vast world of engineering. Held at leading universities, this program combines theory with practical challenges to show what engineering is all about.

Over eight days, students engage in a hands-on project, the Capstone Impact Challenge, to solve real problems using engineering principles. This approach helps participants understand the importance of engineering in solving global issues and encourages innovative thinking.

Students will hear from industry experts about the realities of engineering careers, participate in site visits, and use simulations to explore different engineering fields. This experience is designed to clarify the diverse engineering pathways and help students make informed decisions about their future.

4. Brown Leadership Institute

• Location: Providence, Rhode Island (on campus); Online
• Cost: On Campus (2 weeks): $5,498; Online (4 weeks): $5,314
• Program Dates: On Campus: June 23 – July 5, July 14 – July 26, 2024; Online: June 24 – July 19, 2024
• Eligibility: Students completing grades 9 to 12, ages 14 to 18 by June 16, 2024.

As one of the top leadership programs, the Brown Leadership Institute equips high school students with the tools to lead social change. Available in both on-campus and online formats, it allows young individuals to discuss crucial topics such as law, social movements, and education equity. This program is ideal for those eager to enhance their understanding of societal issues and strengthen their leadership abilities.

It provides a curriculum that encourages exploring various societal challenges, fostering debate and informed viewpoints. The program’s flexible setup accommodates different preferences, with residential and virtual learning options. Students tackle an Action Plan for social change, motivating them to identify and solve societal issues they care about. This method boosts their problem-solving abilities and instills a proactive approach to initiating change.

Additionally, the program focuses on key leadership skills like public speaking, analytical thinking, and teamwork through practical workshops and activities. The Brown Leadership Institute prepares students with the knowledge for advocating change and the leadership skills necessary in any environment.

5. National Youth Leadership Forum: Medicine & Health Care

• Location: Emory University, St. John’s University, University of California, Los Angeles, University of Maryland, College Park, Washington University in St. Louis

This program gives high school students an in-depth look at the medical field, allowing them to experience what it’s like to be a physician. Hosted at leading universities, it combines simulations with hands-on clinical practice, sharpening participants’ medical skills and decision-making abilities.

One key feature is the Outdoor Medicine Simulation. Here, students learn crucial first-aid techniques like wound care and bleeding control, essential for emergencies where medical help is not readily available. This practical learning experience prepares students for real-life medical challenges.

Another significant aspect is the Triage Simulation, where students practice prioritizing patients in a disaster scenario. This teaches them to apply medical knowledge under pressure, enhancing their problem-solving and leadership skills. Beyond simulations, the program includes visits to top medical schools and interactive sessions led by seasoned advisors. Participants also engage in clinical skills rotations, gaining a comprehensive view of the medical profession.

6. National Student Leadership Conference (NSLC) on Leadership & Service

• Location: Georgetown University, Washington, DC; University of Miami, Miami, FL
• Cost: $2,995 RESIDENTIAL
• Program Dates: Georgetown University: Jul 11 – Jul 16, Jul 19 – Jul 24, Jul 27 – Aug 1, 2024; University of Miami: Jun 22 – Jun 27, Jul 1 – Jul 6, 2024
• Eligibility: Students aged 14-18, having completed at least one year of high school.

NSLC on Leadership & Service, one of the best leadership programs for high school students, empowers students to positively impact their communities while developing essential leadership skills. This program combines service projects with leadership training, offering students a platform to practice goal-setting, public speaking, and team collaboration. By participating in community service, students learn the value of civic engagement and social responsibility, enhancing their leadership profile.

Students experience college life firsthand, living on campus and engaging in a structured program that balances academic learning with real-world application. The NSLC curriculum is tailored to help students explore their leadership potential, providing them with the tools to lead effectively in diverse settings.

7. Bank of America Student Leaders Program

• Location: Multiple locations across the United States
• Cost: Unspecified
• Program Dates: 8-week program including a week-long summit in Washington, D.C. (July 22-27, 2024)
• Application Deadline: January 17
• Eligibility: High school juniors and seniors legally authorized to work in the U.S., available for an 8-week internship and summit participation.

The Bank of America Student Leaders Program is a key initiative for high school juniors and seniors throughout the United States, focusing on community service and leadership. Started in 2004, this program plays a vital role in readying students for the workforce through paid internships at local nonprofits and a leadership summit in Washington, D.C.

It offers real-world work experience, enhances leadership abilities, and highlights the importance of teamwork in tackling community issues. During the 8-week program, students engage in paid internships with nonprofits, working on projects that benefit their communities. This direct involvement applies their academic knowledge in practical settings and provides insight into the nonprofit sector’s workings and challenges.

The program also focuses on building essential leadership skills. Through teamwork and workshops, students learn to lead empathetically, innovate, and make impactful choices. They finish the program ready to contribute positively to society.

8. National Youth Leadership Forum: Advanced Medicine & Health Care

• Location: Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD
• Cost: $5,295
• Program Dates: June 19-28, July 2-11, July 16-25

This advanced program at Johns Hopkins University is tailored for students who are deeply interested in healthcare. Over ten days, it explores specialized medical fields, offering hands-on workshops and simulations covering various medical procedures and practices.

Participants will learn from medical professionals, practicing skills like measuring vital signs, understanding birthing processes, and addressing common complications. Workshops with The Apprentice Doctor teach crucial practices such as venipuncture and suturing, fostering critical thinking and practical application of medical knowledge.

9. National Youth Leadership Forum: National Security–Diplomacy, Intelligence & Defense

• Location: University of Maryland, College Park
• Cost: $4,195
• Program Dates: June 16-23, June 26-July 3, July 6-13, July 16-23

The National Youth Leadership Forum: National Security is an 8-day immersion into U.S. national security. Based at the University of Maryland and leveraging the resources of Washington, D.C., the program offers students a deep dive into diplomacy, intelligence, and defense careers. Through direct engagement with national security experts, participants gain insights into the sector’s challenges and the skills required to address them.

The program features a simulation that tests students’ decision-making and leadership skills, reflecting real-world national security scenarios. An exclusive college admissions panel gives students rare access to advice and information from higher education and professional realms, guiding them toward their career goals.

10. American Legion Boys State and Girls State

• Location: Various locations across the USA
• Program Dates and Application Deadline: Dates and deadlines vary by state.
• Eligibility: High school juniors demonstrating leadership, character, scholarship, loyalty, and service in their schools and community.

American Legion Boys State and Girls State leadership programs introduce high school students to American government operations. Students engage in hands-on activities, learning about citizenship rights, responsibilities, and operations. They participate in simulated governmental roles, experiencing legislative sessions, court proceedings, and political campaigns.

These programs focus on developing leadership qualities, emphasizing public speaking, negotiation, and collaboration. Students learn to work together towards common goals, reflecting the cooperative aspect of governance. They also comprehensively understand civic duties and the significance of democratic participation.

Boys State and Girls State offers more than just educational experiences; they are transformative, inspiring students to become knowledgeable and active citizens. Alumni often describe these programs as crucial to their personal and professional growth, highlighting their profound impact. Participants leave with a better understanding of government and leadership, prepared to contribute positively to society.

11. MIT Leadership Training Institute (LTI)

• Location: Massachusetts Institute of Technology
• Program Dates: February 11 to May 11, 2024 (Sundays)
• Application Deadline: December 1
• Eligibility: Open to high school students interested in leadership and community service.

The MIT LTI is designed to build leadership skills through workshops and community service. Meeting on Sundays from February to May, the program focuses on practical leadership development and implementing service projects. Students work in small groups, fostering a supportive environment for personal growth. Topics include public speaking, emotional intelligence, and the importance of diversity in leadership.

The community service project component enables students to apply their newfound skills in real-world scenarios, benefiting local communities. Guidance from mentors ensures that students receive support and feedback throughout their journey. The LTI program aims to develop confident, skilled leaders ready to tackle future challenges.

12. Leadership in the Business World (LBW) by the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania

• Location: Philadelphia, USA (on campus)
• Cost: $10,999
• Program Dates: Jun 9 – Jun 29, 2024; Jun 30 – Jul 20, 2024; Jul 21 – Aug 10, 2024
• Application Deadline: Priority deadline: January 31, 2024; Final deadline: April 3, 2024
• Eligibility: High school students currently enrolled in grade 11 with demonstrated leadership experience and academic excellence of a 3.5 unweighted GPA or higher. International applicants are welcome.

LBW at Wharton stands out for its rigorous approach to business education, designed to mirror the undergraduate experience at one of the world’s leading business schools. Participants study the complexities of leadership in the 21st century through classes, simulations, and discussions led by Wharton professors and industry experts. The program emphasizes practical skills, from negotiating and strategic thinking to understanding customer focus and organizational strategy.

A typical day is packed with lectures, group activities, and digital simulations, ensuring students apply what they learn in real time. Beyond the classroom, LBW fosters a sense of community and teamwork, essential traits for any future leader. Admission is competitive, looking for students who excel academically and show a profound interest in business and leadership.

13. National Youth Leadership Forum: Law & CSI

• Location: University of Maryland, College Park, MD

As one of the top leadership programs for high school students, the National Youth Leadership Forum (NYLF) on Law & CSI at the University of Maryland is an immersive program for high school students interested in law and forensic science. This unique opportunity allows participants to select a legal or CSI track to study each field.

Students choosing the legal track will experience the legal system up close through mock trials and courthouse visits. They’ll learn about the steps to becoming a lawyer and explore various legal careers. Those on the CSI track will get hands-on with crime scene investigation, learning from experts about the latest technologies in forensics.

Beyond the specialized tracks, all students will benefit from workshops on college admissions, offering a peek into university life and the admissions process. The program’s tuition covers everything from accommodation and meals to transportation for site visits, ensuring a comprehensive learning experience.

14. Boston Leadership Institute (BLI)

• Location: Boston and surrounding areas
• Cost: $599 for one-week programs, $2,200 for three-week programs
• Program Dates: Various dates throughout the summer
• Application Deadline: Rolling admissions
• Eligibility: Open to students performing at or above grade level, competitive admissions for three-week programs.

BLI’s curriculum includes one-week and three-week programs designed to immerse students in their chosen field of interest. The one-week options are perfect for students with limited time, allowing them to experience different subjects and discover their passions. The Edge programs provide targeted preparation for students looking to excel in math, science, or AP courses.

Science programs give students extensive lab experience under the guidance of accomplished instructors. Engineering and tech programs challenge students with projects that require critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Medicine programs offer hands-on experience with procedures and research, ideal for pre-med students. Business programs introduce entrepreneurial skills and business management, which are valuable for future entrepreneurs.

BLI operates out of three campuses, offering day and residential programs to accommodate different needs. The day programs run from 9 AM to 3:30 PM with an optional extended day until 5:00 PM at no extra charge. Residential programs provide housing, meals, and supervision for a more immersive experience. Admission processes are straightforward, with a deposit required to secure a spot. Financial aid is available, demonstrating BLI’s commitment to accessibility.

15. Harvard Summer School’s Secondary School Program (SSP)

• Location: Harvard University
• Cost: $3,900 to $14,250, depending on the chosen program and format
• Program Dates: 4- or 7-week programs during the summer
• Application Deadline: January 10 (Early Application), February 14 (Regular Application)
• Eligibility: High school students graduating in 2024, 2025, or 2026, at least 16 years old by June 22, 2024.

The Harvard SSP invites high school students to a summer of academic growth at a top university. This program offers both 4-week and 7-week courses that allow students to live on campus, study online, or commute. Students can earn college credits in subjects ranging from humanities to STEM, preparing them for the college experience. The program balances study, extracurricular activities, and socializing, providing a realistic glimpse into college life.

Participants come from over 71 countries, bringing diverse perspectives to the classroom. The application process targets motivated students who are eager to challenge themselves academically. Financial aid is available for those who qualify, making this prestigious opportunity more accessible.

How Can High School Students Show Leadership?

High school is crucial for developing leadership skills for personal growth and future success. Leadership programs for high school students provide structured ways to cultivate these skills, enabling young individuals to learn, apply, and demonstrate leadership in various settings.

Participation in Student Organizations

Being active in student organizations is key for high school students to display leadership. These groups offer roles where students can practice organizing, team management, and communication. Leading club initiatives or serving in student government, students gain practical experience in guiding peers and managing events, enhancing their teamwork and problem-solving abilities.

Leading Community Service Projects

Community service projects offer significant opportunities for showcasing leadership. Initiating and guiding these projects, students identify community needs, devise plans to meet them, and gather necessary resources. These efforts demonstrate students’ dedication to societal improvement and build empathy and a deeper understanding of social challenges, highlighting leadership as a community service.

Initiatives in Collaborative Academic Projects

Academic projects that require collaboration present chances for students to lead by taking charge. Such projects demand coordinating with peers, sharing tasks, and ensuring the group achieves its objectives. High school students leading in these scenarios learn to inspire others, handle group dynamics, and produce quality work together, showing their capacity to improve group performance.

Positive Peer Influence

Leadership also involves positively influencing peers beyond formal positions. High school students who encourage kindness, respect, and academic integrity positively affect their atmosphere. By initiating actions to combat bullying or promote inclusivity, they exemplify leadership through the influence of their deeds on their school’s environment.

Resilience Through Challenges

Overcoming difficulties is a crucial aspect of leadership. High school students show leadership by displaying resilience—keeping a positive attitude, learning from setbacks, and persisting toward goals despite obstacles. This resilience motivates others, demonstrating that hurdles can lead to growth and achievement.

Role Modeling in Activities

Serving as a role model in academic and extracurricular pursuits is yet another form of leadership. Students who excel in their studies and interests set a high bar for their peers, embodying the traits that leadership programs aim to develop. Their dedication and integrity encourage others to reach for excellence, fostering ambition and a high-achievement culture.

Why Is Student Leadership Important in High School?

The importance of leadership programs for high school students stretches beyond just preparing them for upcoming challenges; it’s crucial for developing a generation ready to make thoughtful decisions and solve problems creatively. These programs offer young people structured opportunities to explore and enhance their leadership skills, bringing numerous advantages.

1. Developing Key Skills

Leadership programs focus on teaching important life skills. Communication, problem-solving, and teamwork are at the core of these lessons. Students learn to express themselves clearly, solve problems creatively, and work in groups. These are essential skills for success in both personal and professional settings.

2. Boosting Academic Success

Being part of leadership activities encourages students to manage their time well and prioritize their tasks. Leadership often means juggling various responsibilities, leading to improved focus and discipline in academic endeavors.

3. Readiness for College and Careers

Leadership skills make students more attractive to colleges and employers. Demonstrating leadership can enhance college applications and prepare students for future job markets where such skills are in high demand.

4. Personal Development

Leadership roles challenge students to step out of their comfort zones, fostering self-reflection and personal growth. They learn about their strengths and weaknesses, develop empathy, and practice making ethical decisions.

5. Influencing School Culture and Community

Student leaders significantly impact the atmosphere of their schools, promoting a culture of respect and inclusiveness. Leadership often involves community service, which helps those in need and instills a sense of civic duty among students.

6. Establishing a Leadership Foundation

The leadership experience gained in high school lays the groundwork for future roles. It prepares students to lead and make ethical decisions in their personal lives, careers, or community engagements.

Leadership programs for high school students transform participants into well-rounded individuals ready to tackle academic challenges and contribute positively to society. Investing in such programs unlocks students’ potential, guiding them toward a successful and fulfilling future.

How Do You Develop Leadership Among Students?

Cultivating leadership skills in high school students is crucial to their development, preparing them for personal and professional success. It involves several strategies to empower students with the necessary skills and confidence to take on leadership roles.

Providing Leadership Opportunities

Allowing students to assume leadership roles in activities such as student government, clubs, sports, or group projects offers practical experience. Schools can support this by offering a range of leadership roles that cater to diverse interests, ensuring every student has the chance to lead.

Mentorship plays a vital role in leadership development. Pairing students with mentors from different fields provides them with guidance and feedback on their leadership style. This relationship helps students understand the complexities of leadership and fosters a supportive environment for their growth.

Teaching Responsibility and Accountability

Teaching students the importance of responsibility and accountability for their actions as leaders. Schools can instill these critical qualities in students by setting clear expectations and teaching the value of reliability and ethical leadership.

Leadership Workshops

Workshops focused on leadership skills offer valuable learning opportunities. Covering topics like effective communication and conflict resolution, these workshops equip students with essential leadership skills and knowledge.

Student-Led Initiatives

Encouraging students to spearhead their projects allows them to address issues they’re passionate about. This hands-on approach teaches valuable lessons in leadership, teamwork, and perseverance.

Recognizing Achievements

Acknowledging the achievements of student leaders is crucial. Recognition can take many forms, from awards to public acknowledgment, and it serves to motivate students and highlight the importance of their contributions.

Developing leadership in high school students involves providing opportunities to lead, mentorship, fostering a sense of responsibility, organizing leadership workshops, supporting student-led initiatives, and recognizing their achievements.

Leadership programs for high school students are instrumental in this process, offering structured experiences to build their skills. Through these programs and targeted support, students can become effective, ethical leaders prepared for future challenges.

Leadership programs for high school students offer invaluable opportunities to develop the skills necessary for success in college and beyond. By participating in these programs, students gain a deeper understanding of leadership concepts and apply these skills in practical, real-world contexts.

As we prepare the next generation of leaders, supporting and encouraging high school students in their leadership journeys is essential, recognizing their pivotal role in shaping a better future for all.

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US School Assignment Asking Students If God Is Real Sparks Uproar Online

In a facebook post, the parent, olivia gray, posted her daughter nettie gray's world history assignment and described it as "some crazy shit"..

The assignment was titled "How did the world start?" (Representative pic)

A homework assignment given to high school students in the US has ignited uproar online after a concerned parent shared a photo of the questions a teacher wanted the child to answer, including "Is God read?" In a Facebook post, the parent, Olivia Gray, posted her daughter Nettie Gray's world history assignment and described it as "some crazy shit". The assignment - titled "How did the world start?" - ended with two questions that raised concerns: "Is God real?" and "Is Satan real?"

"This is a real assignment for a high school class on Oklahoma. This is one of Nettie's assignments for World History class. It's being called a research paper. This is some crazy shit overall and also on a technical level. Literally the kid had been in school ONE WEEK," Ms Gray wrote while sharing the picture of the assignment. 

Take a look below: 

Ms Gray shared the post a few days back. Since then, it has accumulated more than 375 likes and nearly 500 shares. Many reacted to the assignment in the comments section. 

"I could understand questions on world religions in World History class that may include Christianity as well as other religions but this is just plain weird and wrong. How would this even be graded fairly?" wrote one user. 

"This is insane. What sources is she supposed to use? I'm a teacher--and a challenging one. I have no trouble with a high school student (or even an upper middle school student) starting a research paper week one. But this assignment is absolutely wack. I never thought I'd say this, but she'd be better off at Catholic School!" said another. 

Also Read |  Experts Warn Of Gen Z's Growing Debt Crisis As Cost Of Living Surges: Report

"I'm stunned and horrified they are even being allowed to push or preach their own personal religion/religious bias like that onto students in a public school in the United States," commented a third user. "This is horrifying in soooo many ways...This teacher needs to be sent back to teaching Bible study and kept the hell away from public schools," added a fourth user. 

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Meanwhile, according to People , the school district has addressed the situation. In a statement, it said, "Skiatook Public Schools became aware of the World History assignment in question through a social media post. Once administration reviewed the assignment, it was determined that the presentation of the material was not conducive to our instructional plan."

"Administration and staff will continue to collaborate on best practices to meet the Oklahoma Academic Standards," the statement added.

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• 08/27/24 – KHSAA HYPE Student Leadership Conferences Registration Now Open

August 27, 2024 2024-2025 News Releases

For the 24th year, the KHSAA will host its HYPE Student Leadership Conference.  Mark your calendars to plan to attend one of the two events scheduled for September 19 or September 20 as both will be held at the Central Bank Center in Lexington

WHAT IS HYPE? HYPE is a one-day student leadership conference where students will enjoy educational interaction with each other to discuss issues and garner information to take back and share/implement with their teams and student body.  The event is staged and presented by the KHSAA Student-Athlete Group.

DATES/LOCATIONS

Thursday, September 19 – Central Bank Center (430 W. Vine St. Lexington, next to Rupp Arena) OR Friday, September 20 – Central Bank Center (430 W. Vine St. Lexington, next to Rupp Arena). 

COST There is no charge to attend.  Schools are responsible for transportation and meals.

REGISTER Register here .  The registration deadline is Friday, September 13.  A school is limited to a maximum of 18 students.  Conferences are first-come-first-served and registration has closed before the deadline due to capacity limitations (400) in the past. 

We ask that only new attendees be selected as the program content is the same as last year.

LUNCH Lunch will be “on your own”.

ATTENDEES Each school may select up to 18 individuals to attend.  Registration is first-come-first-served and is traditionally at capacity (400).  

SCHEDULE 8:15-8:40 a.m. – Registration 8:45-9:00 a.m. – Opening Session 9:05-9:55 a.m. – Breakout Session #1 10:05-10:55 a.m. – Breakout Session #2 11:05 a.m.-11:55 p.m. – Breakout Session #3 12:05-12:45 p.m. – Featured Speaker – Harvey Alston – “Be the Best”

BREAKOUT SESSIONS Brain Mapping and Goal Setting – Omari Pearson, Passion to Purpose Relationship Building & Maintenance – Deb Hult, Co-Founder, Core Trainings Team Building – Asbury University

SPONSORS In addition to the KHSAA, thank you to our sponsors Musco Sports Lighting, the Kentucky Coaches Association, and the NFHS Foundation.

2024-2025 KHSAA STUDENT-ATHLETE GROUP Kamryn Biliter (Pineville), Adam Weakley (Bethlehem), Hale Carr (Corbin), Caleb Biddle (Pendleton County), Abigail Hamilton (Graves County), Kyle Merrick (Marshall County), Ben Cauley (Bullitt Central), Kaileigh Gibson (Owen County), Colby Young (Owen County), Claire Roberts (Lexington Christian), Madeline Haller (DuPont Manual), Ari Rabin (Francis Parker), Maleya Giddens (Assumption), Ava Carver (Rowan County), Michael Smith (Scott), and Lucy Dalrymple (Bethlehem).

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Past Hall of Fame Blog Posts

• 02/02/24 – Introducing the Dawahares/KHSAA Hall of Fame Class of 2024
• 01/20/23 – Dawahares/KHSAA Hall of Fame Reveals Class of 2023
• 02/23/22 – 2022 Dawahares/KHSAA Hall of Fame Class Announced
• 03/01/21 – Dawahares/KHSAA Hall of Fame Banquet Set for July 24 in Lexington
• Greg Buckner goes from underappreciated to KHSAA Hall of Fame
• 10/31/19 – Dawahares/KHSAA Hall Of Fame Class Of 2020 Inductees Announced
• Hall of Famer Mary Custard-Austin: “If you tell me ‘no,’ I’m going after it even harder”
• Eric Shelton says KHSAA Hall of Fame honor was a team effort
• Hall of Famer Kandi Brown-Parker recalls her sweetest Sweet Sixteen
• Reggie Warford’s Hall of Fame credentials go beyond basketball
• 01/31/19 – Dawahares/KHSAA Hall Of Fame Class Of 2019 Inductees Announced
• Hall of Famer Brian Brohm: Multi-sport athlete cover boy
• Shon Walker’s Hall of Fame game wasn’t just the long ball
• Hall of Famer Angela Payne Starnes loves teaching as much as running
• 01/19/18 – Roberts Insurance To Become Presenting Sponsor of KHSAA Hall of Fame
• 11/19/17 – Dawahares/KHSAA Hall Of Fame Class Of 2018 Inductees Announced
• 11/14/17 – 2018 KHSAA Hall of Fame Press Conference This Sunday; Football Championship Tickets On Sale
• 02/28/17 – Tickets on Sale for Hall of Fame Banquet on March 18
• 10/23/16 – Dawahares/KHSAA Hall of Fame Class of 2017 Inductees Announced
• 02/23/16 – Swimming & Diving Championships Begin Thursday; Hall of Fame Tickets on Sale
• 06/08/14 – Dawahares/KHSAA Hall Of Fame Class Of 2015 Inductees Announced
• 06/03/14 – 2015 KHSAA Hall of Fame Press Conference Set For Sunday, June 8
• 04/22/14 – KHSAA Bass Fishing Championship, Hall of Fame Banquet This Weekend
• 06/2/13 – Dawahares/KHSAA Hall Of Fame Class Of 2014 Inductees Announced
• 6/1/13 REMINDER – 2014 Dawahares/KHSAA Hall of Fame Class to be Announced
• 05/20/13 – 2014 KHSAA Hall of Fame Press Conference; BA/FP District Tournaments; Spring Sport Media Credentials
• 04/9/13 – 2013 KHSAA Hall of Fame Class Honored This Saturday; Regional Sportsmanship Winners Announced
• 06/19/12 – Dawahares/KHSAA Hall of Fame class of 2013 introduced

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KHSAA News and Notes

• 08/16/2024- KHSAA School Directory Available via ArbiterLive
• 08/02/24 – Board of Control Conducts First Meeting of 2024-25
• 07/31/24 – MileSplit Named Online Registration Provider for KHSAA Cross Country, Track & Field
• 07/15/24 – NFHS Announces Softball Playing Rule Changes
• 07/10/24 – NFHS Announces Track & Field Rule Changes
• 07/09/24 – Officials Supervisor of the Year Announced
• 07/09/24 – Softball Official of the Year Announced
• 07/08/24 – Baseball Official of the Year Announced
• 07/08/24 – Track & Field Official of the Year Announced
• 06/27/24 – NFHS Announces Baseball Playing Rule Changes
• 06/24/24 – Abby Jackson Hired as KHSAA Assistant Commissioner
• 06/24/24 – ArbiterSports, KHSAA, Riherds.com Announce Revolutionary Partnership for School Data Management Services
• 06/05/24 – Baseball, Softball State Tournaments to Begin in Lexington
• 06/04/24 – Thurmond, Germann Named 2023-24 Midway/KHSAA Student-Athletes of the Year
• 05/30/24 – Times Set for First Rounds of Baseball, Softball State Tournaments
• 05/29/24 – Track & Field State Championships to Run Thursday, Friday, Saturday in Lexington
• 05/27/24 – Tennis State Championships to Begin at UK, EKU, Berea College
• 05/14/24 – First, Second Rounds of Baseball State Tournament to Return to Legends Field
• 05/14/24 – NFHS Announces Basketball Playing Rule Changes
• 05/10/24 – Watch the Spring Draw Show May 14 on KHSAA.tv
• 05/09/24 – KHSAA Student Advisory Group Selected for 2024-25
• 05/09/24 – Board of Control Approves Final Football Alignment for 2025, 2026; Sets Tentative Season Parameters for Lacrosse, Boys’ Volleyball for 2025
• 05/07/24 – Bass Fishing State Championships Scheduled for Friday, Saturday at Kentucky Lake
• 04/30/24 – NFHS Announces Wrestling Rule Changes
• 04/24/24 – Esports Spring State Championships to Debut Pair of New Titles
• 04/10/24 – Basketball Official of the Year Announced
• 04/10/24 – Media Credentials Now Available for Spring Championships
• 04/09/24- KHSAA Partners with Advance NIL for Comprehensive Education Effort
• 04/08/24 – NFHS Announces Soccer Playing Rule Changes
• 04/08/24 – SWIMMING & DIVING OFFICIAL OF THE YEAR ANNOUNCED
• 04/08/24 – Initial RPI Rankings Released for Baseball and Softball
• 04/02/24- Advisory Concerning Outdoor Sports, Monday April 8
• 04/02/24- KDPH Resource Documents Related to April 8, 2024 Solar Eclipse
• 04/01/24 – Initial Stat Leader Reports Available for Baseball, Softball
• 04/01/24 – Wrestling Official of the Year Announced
• 03/18/24- KHSAA Seeks Fifth Assistant Commissioner (new position)
• 03/11/24 – Mingua Beef Jerky Girls’ Basketball Sweet 16® to Tip Off at Rupp Arena
• 03/21/24 – Recipients Announced for Ninth Annual Louis Stout Memorial Scholarships
• Mingua Beef Jerky Girls’ Sweet
• 03/01/24 – Inaugural Indoor Track & Field State Championships to Debut in Louisville
• 02/21/24 – Sweet 16® Media Credential Applications Now Open
• 02/20/24 – Board of Control Approves Draft of 2025, 2026 Football Alignment
• 02/16/24 – Swimming State First Round to Start Saturday
• 02/14/24 – Boys’/Coed, Inaugural Girls’ Wrestling State Championships to Begin in Lexington
• 02/08/24 – NFHS Announces Football Playing Rule Changes
• 02/08/24 – NFHS Announces Volleyball Playing Rule Changes
• 02/05/24 – Sweet 16® Draw Show to Air Feb. 12 on NFHS Network
• 02/02/24 – NFHS Announces Field Hockey Playing Rule Changes
• 02/02/24 – Nominations for KHSAA Student Advisory Group-NFHS National Student Leadership Summit Being Accepted
• 02/01/24 – Bowling State Championships Return to Jeffersontown Next Week
• 01/17/24 – Board of Control Looks Ahead to Winter State Championships
• 11/16/24 – Start of Regularly Scheduled Board of Control Meeting Delayed Two Hours Due to Weather
• 01/08/24 – Applications Being Accepted for Louis Stout Memorial Scholarships for 2023-2024
• 01/04/24 – The Dairy Alliance Champions High School Athletics With Nature’s Drink
• 01/02/24 – Initial RPI Rankings Released for Basketball
• 12/18/23 – Initial Stat Leader Reports Released for Basketball
• 12/13/23 – Two KHSAA Coaches Tabbed as NFHS Section II Coaches of the Year
• 12/11/23 – Football Official of the Year Announced
• 12/06/23 – Tedi Henderson of DuPont Manual Selected to NFHS National Student Advisory Council
• 12/06/23 – George Rogers Clark to Host Cheer, Dance State Championships Over Weekend
• 12/04/23 – Media Credentials Now Available for Winter Championships
• 11/29/23 – UK HealthCare Sports Medicine Football State Finals to Kick Off at Kroger Field
• 11/28/23 – UK Healthcare Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine Seeks Nominations for Kentucky Comeback Athlete of the Year Award
• 11/21/23 – Volleyball Official of the Year Announced
• 11/21/23 – Soccer Official of the Year Announced
• 11/17/23- Vacancy Announcement for Office Manager (Regular, Full-time) – Search Extended
• 11/16/23 – Field Hockey Official of the Year Announced
• 11/15/23 – Board of Control Adopts Changes to State Formats For Swimming, Indoor Track & Field, Girls’ Wrestling; Sets State Archery Site, Accepts Results of Bylaw 9 Amendment
• 11/13/2023 – Starting Spring 24, PlayVS and KHSAA Announce That Esports Will be Free To Participate
• 2023 KHSAA Football Third-Round Playoff Pairings Released
• 11/07/23 – KHSAA Announces RefReps Partnership to Address Officials Shortage
• 11/6/23- 5 Tips for Creating a Culture of Caring in Our High Schools
• 10/29/23 – Volleyball State Tournament to Start On Monday
• 10/27/23 – Cross Country State Championships Return to Kentucky Horse Park
• 10/18/23 – Field Hockey State Tournament to Begin In Louisville
• 10/16/23 – KHSAA member school students invited to apply for 2024 Kentucky Ag Athletes-of-the-Year
• 10/16/23 – Soccer State Tournaments to Kick Off Around the State
• 10/06/23 – KHSAA Announces 2022-23 NFHS State Coaches of the Year
• 10/03/23 – KHSAA Hires Longtime Official Scott Bottoms as Supervisor of Officials Licensing
• 09/26/23 – Fall Draw Show to Air Thursday On KHSAA.tv
• 09/23/23 – Fall State Championships to Begin On Golf Course
• 09/22/23 – Media Credentials Now Available for Fall Championships
• 09/13/23 – Board of Control Approves Distribution of Bylaw 9 Referendum, Adjusts Swimming & Diving Starting Date
• 09/12/23 – Initial RPI Rankings Released for Football, Volleyball, Field Hockey
• 09/05/23 – Initial Stat Leader Reports Released for Football, Volleyball, Field Hockey; RPI Rankings Released for Soccer
• 08/28/23 – Initial Stat Leader Reports Released for Soccer
• 08/23/23- Review Complete for End of Somerset-Perry County Central Football Contest
• 08/11/23 – KHSAA HYPE Student Leadership Conferences Registration Now Open
• 08/11/23- Reminders about Approved Amendments to Bylaw 9 for 2023-24 (Basketball Organized Play Prior to Practice)
• 07/27/23 – Cross Country State Championships to Return to Kentucky Horse Park in 2023-24
• 07/24/23- Vacancy Announcement for Supervisor of Officials Licensing (Regular, Part-time)
• 07/24/23- Vacancy Announcement for Office Manager (Regular, Full-time)
• 07/24/23 – Corresponding Calendar Reminders, Updates, References
• 07/18/23 – Board of Control Conducts First Meeting of 2023-24
• 07/11/23 – NFHS Announces Track & Field Rule Changes
• 07/10/23 – NFHS Announces Softball Playing Rule Changes
• 07/10/23 – NFHS Announces Baseball Playing Rule Changes
• 06/30/23- Assistant Commissioner Darren Bilberry Receives NFHS Citation for Section 2
• 06/30/23 – Officials Supervisor of the Year Announced
• 06/30/23 – Official of the Year Winner Announced for Baseball
• 06/30/23 – Official of the Year Winner Announced for Softball
• 06/30/23 – Official of the Year Winner Announced for Track & Field
• 06/08/23 – How to Watch Baseball, Softball State Tournaments on KHSAA.tv
• 06/06/23 – Johnson, Ferree Named 2022-23 Midway/KHSAA Student-Athletes of the Year
• 05/31/23 – Track & Field, Baseball, Softball to Wrap Up 2022-23 Championship Season
• 05/29/23 – Tennis State Championships Start Tuesday
• 05/22/23- Update on Site for State Baseball First and Second Rounds
• 05/15/23 – NFHS Announces Basketball Playing Rule Changes
• 05/10/23 – Board of Control Accepts Reports of Member Survey Results, State Legislation, Officials Licensing
• 05/09/23 – Catch the Bass Fishing State Championships This Weekend on Kentucky Lake
• 05/04/23 – Spring Draw Show Tabbed for May 9 on NFHS Network
• 05/02/23 – NFHS Announces Wrestling Rule Changes
• 05/01/23 – KHSAA Student Advisory Group Selected for National Student Leadership Summit
• 04/24/23 – Esports Spring State Championships to Be Held Wednesday at UK
• 04/17/23 – Archery State Championships Take Aim Tuesday in Bowling Green
• 04/14/23- NFHS Announces Swimming & Diving Rule Changes
• 04/13/23 – Media Credentials Now Available for Spring Championships
• 04/11/23 – Two KHSAA Coaches Earn NFHS Section II Coach of the Year Honors
• 04/03/23 – Initial RPI Rankings, Stat Leader Reports Available for Baseball, Softball
• 03/29/23 – Official of the Year Winner Announced for Basketball
• 03/29/23 – Official of the Year Winner Announced for Wrestling
• 03/29/23 – Official of the Year Winner Announced for Swimming & Diving
• 03/24/23 – NFHS Announces Competitive Cheer, Dance Rule Changes
• 03/23/23- Basketball Scheduling and Corresponding Dates Reminders for 2023-24 and 2024-25
• 03/22/23- Off Season Football Activity and Practice Reminders
• 03/13/23 – UK HealthCare Boys’ Sweet 16® to Tip Off at Rupp Arena
• 03/07/23 – Mingua Beef Jerky Girls’ Sweet 16® to Tip Off at Rupp Arena
• 03/02/23- NFHS Announces Soccer Playing Rule Changes
• 02/27/23 – Recipients Announced for Eighth Annual Louis Stout Memorial Scholarships
• 02/22/23 – Board of Control Approves Adoption of Girls’ Wrestling
• 02/20/23 – Sweet 16® Media Credentials Now Available
• 02/16/23 – Wrestling State Championships to Kick Off at First Round Sites
• 02/14/23 – Swimming & Diving State Championships Ready to Start in Lexington
• 03/2/23 – Nominations for KHSAA Student Advisory Group-NFHS National Student Leadership Summit Being Accepted
• 02/07/23- NFHS Announces Field Hockey Playing Rule Changes
• 02/03/23- NFHS Announces Volleyball Playing Rule Changes
• 02/03/23 – Sweet 16® Draw Show Set for Feb. 15 on NFHS Network
• 02/03/23 – Bowling State Championships Head to Kingpin Lanes in Jeffersontown
• 02/02/23- NFHS Announces Football Playing Rule Changes
• 01/25/23 Archery Nominations Sought for Midway/KHSAA Student Athlete-of-the-Year Awards
• 01/18/23 – Board of Control Approves Football Realignment, RPI Revision, Jenkins Placement in Region 14
• 2023 Approved Final Football Alignment for 2023 and 2024 Playing Seasons
• 2023 DRAFT Football Alignment for Final Consideration
• 2023 Football Realignment – Responses from Membership on Class Boundaries
• 12/20/22 – Initial RPI Rankings, Stat Leader Reports Released for Basketball
• 12/19/22 – KHSAA Announces NFHS State Coach of the Year Honorees for 2021-22 Seasons
• 12/18/22 – Applications Being Accepted for Louis Stout Memorial Scholarships for 2022-2023
• 12/15/22 – Esports Winter State Championships to Cap Off Calendar Year
• 12/08/22 – Competitive Cheer, Dance State Championships Return to George Rogers Clark
• 12/07/22 – Official of the Year Winner Announced for Football
• 12/07/22 – Media Credentials Now Available for Winter Championships
• 12/01/22 – UK HealthCare Sports Medicine Football State Finals Return to Kroger Field
• 11/17/22- Rupp Arena Signs Multi-Year deal to Continue Partnership with KHSAA
• 11/16/22 – Board of Control Approves Items Passed at Annual Meeting, Distribution of Enrollment Information, Wrestling State First Round Site
• 11/16/22 – Clark’s Pump-N-Shop Expands Partnership as Official Fuel of KHSAA
• 11/14/22- Information to Order Football Finals Tickets
• 11/15/22 – UK Healthcare Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine Seeks Nominations for Kentucky Comeback Athlete of the Year Award
• 11/10/22 – Official of the Year Winner Announced for Volleyball
• 11/02/22 – Volleyball State Tournament to Continue at George Rogers Clark
• 11/01/22 – Official of the Year Winner Announced for Soccer
• 11/01/22 – Official of the Year Winner Announced for Field Hockey
• 10/27/22 – Cross Country State Championships to Be Held at Bourbon County XC Course
• 10/25/22 – Soccer State Tournaments to Conclude This Week at Frederick Douglass
• 10/22/22 – Field Hockey State Tournament to Conclude at Christian Academy-Louisville
• 10/18/22- Enough is Enough: Bad Behavior by Coaches, Parents and Fans Must Stop
• 10/17/22- KHSAA member school students encouraged to apply for 2023 Kentucky Ag Athletes of the Year
• 10/11/22 – Fall Draw Show to Air Wednesday on KHSAA.tv
• 10/02/22 – Leachman/KHSAA Golf State Finals Head to Bowling Green
• 09/23/22 – Media Credentials Now Available for Fall Championships
• 09/19/22 – Initial RPI Rankings Released for Football
• 09/13/22 – Board of Control Approves Amended Sanctioning Policy, Expansion of Officials Licensing
• 09/07/22 – Initial RPI Rankings, Stat Leader Reports Released for Volleyball, Soccer, Field Hockey; Stat Leader Reports Released for Football
• 09/07/22 – Volleyball Nominations Sought For Midway/KHSAA Student Athlete-of-the-Year Award
• 09/06/22 Soccer Nominations Sought for Midway/KHSAA Student Athlete-of-the-Year Awards
• 09/02/22 – Golf Nominations Sought for Male & Female Midway/KHSAA Student Athlete-of-the-Year Awards
• 08/19/22 – HYPE Student Leadership Conferences Registration Now Open
• 08/08/22- Scam Social Media Account Response
• 07/25/22- Reminders About Realignment/Reclassification Processes for 2023-24 and beyond (FB, TR, XC)
• 07/22/22- Board of Control conducts first meeting of 2022-23 year
• 07/14/22- Guidance for Officials, Rule Organization Focal Points of 2023 Track and Field/Cross Country Rules Revisions
• 07/12/22- Jewelry Permitted in 2023 High School Softball Rules Changes
• 07/11/22- Prohibition of Jewelry Removed in High School Baseball Rules
• 06/28/22 – Official of the Year Winners Announced for Winter, Spring Sports
• 06/23/22 – Board of Control Approves Agreed Order Involving Bowling Green High School
• 06/22/22 – Board of Control to Hold Special Meeting on Thursday
• 06/10/22- Additional Revisions Announced in COVID Return to Play Protocol
• 06/13/22- Guidance Related to 2021 HB563 (KRS156.070)
• 06/11/22- Kopser, Gloyd Named 2021-22 Midway/KHSAA Student-Athletes of the Year
• 06/08/22 – 2022 Clark’s Pump-N-Shop Baseball, Softball State Tournaments to Conclude This Weekend
• 06/02/22 – Track & Field, Baseball, Softball Set to Kick Off in Lexington
• 05/31/22 – KHSAA Tennis State Championships Presented by UK HealthCare to Begin Tuesday
• 05/17/22 – Baseball, Softball State Tournament Draw Show Set for Thursday
• 05/12/22 – Bass Fishing State Championship to Begin Friday at Kentucky Dam Marina
• 05/12/22 – Board of Control approves girls’ basketball hosting extension, volleyball schedule adjustment, state first-round golf format
• 05/03/22- Hair Adornment Use Clarified; Shot Clock Guidelines Adjusted in Basketball Rules
• 04/28/22 – Spring 2022 KHSAA Esports State Championships Presented by UK HealthCare Slated for Saturday
• 04/27/22 – KHSAA Student Advisory Group Tabbed for National Student Leadership Summit
• 04/19/22 – Archery State Championships to Begin Tuesday in Bowling Green
• 04/18/22 – Pool Markings Focal Point of 2022-23 High School Swimming and Diving Rules Changes
• 04/15/22- NCAA Issues Additional COVID Eligibility Guidance for 2023-24
• 04/13/22 – Media Credentials Now Available for Spring Championships
• 04/11/22 – Official of the Year Winners Announced for Fall Sports
• 04/11/22 – Initial RPI Rankings, Stat Leader Reports Released for Baseball, Softball
• 04/11/22 – Baseball Nominations Sought for Midway/KHSAA Student Athlete-of-the-Year Award
• 04/08/22- Information Relative to Bylaw 7 and CSIET
• 03/21/22 – Nominations for KHSAA Student Advisory Group/NFHS National Student Leadership Summit Now Being Accepted
• 03/16/22 – UK HealthCare Boys’ Sweet 16® set to return to Rupp Arena at Central Bank Center
• Hair Adornments, Padding Requirements Among Risk-Based Rules Changes Set for High School Spirit in 2022-23
• 03/09/22 – Mingua Beef Jerky Girls’ Sweet 16® set to return to Rupp Arena at Central Bank Center
• 03/08/22 – Ron Kordes Joins National High School Hall of Fame Class of 2022
• 03/07/22 – Recipients Announced for Seventh Annual Louis Stout Memorial Scholarships
• 03/03/22- Hair Adornments Permitted in High School Soccer
• 02/25/22- UK HealthCare Boys’ Sweet 16® Tickets on Sale Now!
• 02/24/22 – Wrestling State Championships set to begin
• 02/20/22 – Sweet 16® online media credential system now live
• 02/19/22 – St. Xavier, Sacred Heart earn team titles at 2022 Swimming & Diving State Championships
• 02/19/22- Girls’ Sweet 16® Tickets on Sale Now!
• 02/17/22- Revised Intentional Grounding, Chop Block Rules Headline 2022 High School Football Rules Changes
• 02/17/22 – Swimming State Championships continue Friday, Saturday
• 02/17/22 – Board of Control approves football bracketing adjustments, new President-elect; Reviews potential amendments to Bylaws
• 02/12/22- Hair Adornment Adjustments, Addition of Team Time-Out Highlight 2022 High School Field Hockey Rules Changes
• 02/11/22 – Diving State Championships Begin Saturday
• 02/11/22- Relaxed Hair Adornment, Uniform Rules Among Administrative Changes Set for High School Volleyball in 2022
• 02/09/22 – KHSAA Bowling State Championships Conclude at Executive Strike & Spare
• 02/08/22 – Sweet 16® Draw Show to Air Feb. 11 on CW Lexington, KHSAA.tv
• 02/05/22 – Bowling State Championships to begin Monday at Executive Strike & Spare
• 02/01/22 – Winter Sports Championship Credentials
• 01/21/22 – Revision to Start of FP Softball Season Coincides with Baseball Change (Revised 01/25/22)
• 01/21/22- Jenny Elder, Connor Link join KHSAA Executive Staff
• 01/21/22- Board Adopts Change to Baseball Season for 2022
• 01/20/22- Revisions Announced in COVID Return to Play Protocol
• 01/19/22- Board of Control approves expansion of State Qualifiers and Teams, Realignment of Basketball Region 4, Declines to adopt Basketball Shot Clock and Expands Baseball and Softball Seasons
• 01/12/22 – Applications Being Accepted for Louis Stout Memorial Scholarships for 2021-2022
• 01/06/22- KHSAA member school students encouraged to apply for 2022 Kentucky Ag Athletes of the Year
• 12/28/21 – Wrestling Nominations Sought for Male and Female Midway/KHSAA Student-Athlete of the Year
• 12/21/21 – Initial Basketball RPI Rankings, Stat Leaders Released
• 12/15/21 – PlayVS/KHSAA Esports Winter State Championships Decided Thursday at UK
• 12/09/21 – State Competitive Cheer, State Dance Championships Start Friday at George Rogers Clark
• 12/08/21 – UK Healthcare Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine Seeks Nominations for Kentucky Comeback Athlete of the Year Award
• 12/08/21- KHSAA Announces NFHS State Coach of the Year Honorees for 2020-21 Seasons
• 12/01/21 – 2021 UK Orthopaedics State Football Finals Begin Friday at Kroger Field
• 11/03/21 – State Volleyball Tournament Picks Back Up Friday at George Rogers Clark
• 10/27/21- Immediate Vacancy Announcement for the Position of Communications Director
• 10/28/21 – KHSAA State Cross Country Championships Return to Bourbon County XC Course
• 10/26/21 – KHSAA State Soccer Championships Resume This Week at Frederick Douglass
• 10/21/21 – Field Hockey State Tournament Starts Tonight at Campus Sites
• 10/11/21 – Fall Draw Show Airing Wednesday on KHSAA.tv
• 10/08/21- Changes in COVID-19 RTA/RTP Implemented Per SMAC Guidance
• 10/04/21-Vacancy Announcement for Entry-Level Event Staff Position(s) (Regular, Full-time)
• 10/01/21 – Leachman/KHSAA State Golf to Kick Off the 2021-22 State Championships Next Week
• 09/22/21 – Board of Control Approves Changes to Wrestling Alignment for 2021-22
• 09/20/21 – Initial RPI Rankings Released for Football
• 09/17/21 – Initial RPI Rankings Released for Field Hockey, Soccer and Volleyball
• 09/01/21 – Stat Leader Reports for Field Hockey, Football, Soccer and Volleyball Now Available
• 08/24/21 – HYPE Student Leadership Conference Registration Now Open
• 08/18/21- Updates and Reminders on Schedule Change and Score Reporting
• 08/06/21 – Angolia, White Promoted to New Roles at the KHSAA
• 07/27/21- Update and Information Relative to NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) for Kentucky High School Students
• 07/26/21 – Board of Control to Determine Lacrosse Sanctioning in September
• 07/15/2021- COVID Return to Play Protocol
• 07/13/21 – Spring Officials, Supervisor of the Year Winners Announced
• 07/07/21 – Official of the Year Winners Announced for Winter Sports
• 07/06/21 – Introductory Esports Course Launched by NFHS Learning Center
• 06/23/21 – Official of the Year Winners Announced for Fall Sports
• 06/22/21 – Seven Former Standout High School Athletes Headline 2021 Class of National High School Hall of Fame
• 06/17/21 – State Softball Tournament Resumes Friday at UK
• 06/15/21 – State Baseball Tournament Resumes Wednesday at Legends Field
• 06/11/21 – Friday’s Softball Semi-State Games Postponed Until Sunday
• 06/08/21 – Track and Field Championships Begin Thursday at UK
• 06/07/21- Lehmkuhler, Smallwood Named Midway/KHSAA Student-Athletes of the Year
• 05/28/21 – State Tennis Championships Begin Tuesday at UK and Top Seed Tennis Club
• 05/25/21 – Baseball and Softball State Tournament Draws Set for Thursday
• 05/19/21- NCAA Additional Flexibility for High School Seniors in 20-21 Utilizing the SSYP Under SB128
• 05/12/21 – Shot Clock Allowed by State Adoption for High School Basketball in 2022-23
• 05/12/21 – KHSAA State Competitive Cheer, State Dance Championships Head to George Rogers Clark HS
• 05/10/21 – Recipients Announced for Sixth Annual Louis Stout Memorial Scholarships
• 05/10/21- Senate Bill 128: Supplemental School Year Program Additional Guidance Related to NCAA
• 05/05/21 – Board of Control Approves Football Playoff Format Changes for 2023
• 05/05/21 – State Bass Fishing Championship Begins Friday at Kentucky Dam Marina
• 04/26/21- Change in Masking Requirements for OUTDOOR Sports and Sport-Activities With Less than 1,000 attendees
• 04/23/21 – Initial RPI Rankings, Stat Leader Reports Released for Baseball and Softball
• 04/21/21 – KHSAA State Championships Begin Thursday For Swimming & Diving and Archery
• 04/13/21 – State Archery Championships To Be Conducted Across Four Sites
• 04/12/21- Senate Bill 128: Supplemental School Year Program Guidance for Sports and Sport-Activities
• 04/11/21- Reminders about Off-season Team Sport Allowances and Restrictions
• 04/06/21 – Mingua Beef Jerky Girls’ Sweet 16® Begins Wednesday at Rupp Arena
• 03/30/21 – Boys’ Sweet 16® Returns Wednesday at Rupp Arena
• 03/25/21 – State Wrestling Championships Conclude Saturday at George Rogers Clark HS
• 03/23/21 – Interim Advisory to Basketball Ticket Holders, Rupp Arena Ticket Transfer Process, Between Games and Clear Bag Policy
• 03/22/21 – Last Call for Complete Sets of Tickets to KHSAA Boys’ Sweet 16® Presented by UK HealthCare & Orthopaedics
• 03/21/21 – State Bowling Championships Begin Monday at Executive Strike & Spare
• 03/19/21 – Fan Cutouts Available for Boys’ and Girls’ Sweet Sixteen®
• 03/19/21- Welcome Back Media to Winter Championships
• 03/17/21 – Boys’ Sweet 16® Adds UK HealthCare Orthopaedic Surgery & Sports Medicine as Presenting Sponsor
• 03/16/21 – KMEA’s John Stroube Named NFHS Heart of the Arts Section 2 Award Winner
• Anxiously Awaiting Return of Fans in High School Sports, Performing Arts

Athletic Department Reminders

• 08/27/24 – Wrestling Season Dates and New OPC Pricing Structure
• 08/23/24- Additional Clarification and Guidance – WBGT and Fall Competitions
• 08/22/24 – Dance Declaration Form for KHSAA Postseason Now Open
• 08/22/24 – Competitive Cheer Declaration Form for KHSAA Postseason Now Open
• 08/06/24 – Board revises and finalizes Boys’ Volleyball Season Limitations
• 8/05/24 – Soccer Online Rules Clinic for Coaches & Officials Now Available
• 08/05/24 – Volleyball Online Rules Clinic for Coaches & Officials Now Available
• 08/05/24 – Field Hockey Online Rules Clinic Now Available
• 08/02/24 – Golf Online Rules Clinic Now Available
• 06/12/24- 2024-2025 Regional Meetings for Athletic Administrators
• 06/01/24 – Softball State Tournament
• 05/29/24 – State Track & Field Traffic/Parking Updates
• 05/28/24 – Match Times Published for Team Tennis Championships
• 05/27/24 – State Outdoor Track & Field Lane Assignments, Starting Heights, & Final Details
• 05/24/24 – Tennis State Championship Brackets Published
• 05/23/24 – Class 1A State Track & Field Performance Listing and Roster by School Available
• 05/22/24 – Class 2A State Track & Field Performance Listing and Roster by School Available
• 05/22/24 – Class 3A State Track & Field Performance Listing and Roster by School Available
• 05/15/24 – Tennis State Championship Updates
• 5/15/24 – Softball District/Region Instructions Available
• 05/13/24 – Board of Control Adjusts Swimming & Diving Competition Start Date for 2024-2025
• 05/10/24 – Boys’ Volleyball 2025 Season Updates
• 05/07/24- Reminders about Academic All State and Triple Threat Awards
• 04/20/24 – State Bass Fishing Regional Results and State Registration
• 04/29/2024 – Title IX Report Error in Calculation of Historical Team Matrix
• 4/26/2024 – Bass Fishing State Instructions Available
• 4/24/24 – Region 1 Bass Fishing Tournament Postponed
• 04/15/2024 – Esports Spring Championship Update
• 04/11/24 – Bass Fishing Regional Instructions Available
• 4/2/24 – KHSAA Archery State Championship Registration Now Open
• 04/02/24 – Baseball Nominations Sought for Midway/KHSAA Student Athlete-of-the-Year Award
• 4/2/24 – Softball Nominations Sought for Midway/KHSAA Student-Athlete-of-the-Year Awards
• 4/1/24 – 2023-2024 Title IX Annual Report and Participation List Submission
• 2023-2024 Archery State Championship Qualifiers By School
• 03/26/24 – Tennis Nominations Sought for Midway/KHSAA Student-Athlete of the Year
• 3/19/24 – Bass Fishing Nominations Sought For Midway/KHSAA Student-Athlete of the Year Awards
• 03/11/2024- Expansion Announced of KHSAA Partnership with ArbiterSports To Include School/Coach Data Management
• 03/09/24 – Spring Esports Enrollment Update + Splatoon 3 and NBA 2K 24 Make it to State
• 03/08/24 – Competitive Cheer & Dance Tryout Window and Spring Allowances Reminders
• 03/07/24 – Track & Field Online Rules Clinic Now Available
• 3/7/24 – Bass Fishing Online Rules Clinic Now Available
• 3/7/24 – Softball Online Rules Clinic Now Available for Coaches & Umpires
• 03/07/24 – 2024 KHSAA & UTR Sports Tennis Information
• 03/07/24 – Baseball Online Rules Clinic Now Available for Coaches & Umpires
• 03/07/24 – Tennis Online Rules Clinic Now Available
• 02/29/24 – State Indoor Track & Field Final Details
• 02/25/24 – Inaugural State Indoor Track & Field Meet Qualifiers
• 02/23/24 – Updated Details for State Indoor Track & Field
• 02/21/24 – State Swimming & Diving Final Details
• 02/17/24 – State Swimming & Diving Psych Sheet and Meet Information Now Available
• 02/16/24 – Updated Top Performances for Indoor Track & Field
• 02/15/24 – State First Round Swimming Final Details
• 02/12/24 – Board of Control Election Procedures
• 2/12/24 – Archery Regional Instructions Available
• 02/12/24 – Brackets Now Available for Boys’/Coed Wrestling Championship
• 02/11/24 – State Wrestling Championships Update
• 02/11/24 – State First Round Swimming Psych Sheets & Information Available
• 2/9/24 – Esports Spring Enrollment Update & Additional Information
• 02/02/24 – Indoor Track & Field Updates
• 2/2/24 – KHSAA / PlayVS Spring 24 Esports Dashboard and Other Updates
• 01/31/24 – Diving Postseason Reminders
• 1/30/24 – State Bowling Lane Assignments and Roster By School Posted
• 01/26/24 – Bowling State Information
• 01/24/24 – Basketball Nominations Sought for Midway/KHSAA Student Athlete-of-the-Year
• 1/24/24 Archery Nominations Sought for Midway/KHSAA Student Athlete-of-the-Year Awards
• 01/24/24 – Archery Online Rules Clinic Now Available
• 01/24/24- Spring Esports Online Rules Clinic for Coaches Now Available
• 01/23/24 – Wrestling Postseason Updates
• 01/22/24 – Postseason Diving Entry Requirements Adjusted Due to Weather
• 01/18/24 – PlayVS Nintendo Switch System Spring ‘24 Promotion
• 01/16/24 – Indoor Track & Field State Meet Updates
• 01/11/24 – Swimming & Diving Regional Instructions and Additional Postseason Information
• 01/09/24 – Regional Bowling Entries for Unified & Adapted Athletes
• 01/09/24 – Regional Bowling Entries
• 01/09/24 – REMINDER: KHSAA/PlayVS Spring 2024 Esports Interest Survey with Special Offer
• 01/05/24 – Bowling Regional Instructions Available
• 01/02/24 – Bowling Postseason Updates
• 01/01/24 – Wrestling Nominations Sought for Midway/KHSAA Student-Athlete of the Year
• 12/29/23 – First Phase (T-35 Report) Open for Title IX Reporting Entry for 2023-2024
• 12/18/23 – Swimming & Diving Nominations Sought for Midway/KHSAA Student-Athlete-Of the Year
• 12/15/23 – List of Items Needed for Annual Required Financial Aid Report
• 12/15/23 – Nominations Sought For Midway/KHSAA Student-Athlete of the Year
• 12/05/23 – State Outdoor Track & Field Postseason Dates & Reminders
• 12/14/23 – Wrestling Mat Offer & Scholarship Opportunity
• 12/5/23 – Esports Winter Championship Update
• 12/4/2023 – KHSAA/PlayVS Spring 2024 Esports Interest Survey With Special Offer
• 11/30/23 – State Archery to be Held at Central Bank Center in Lexington
• 11/21/2023 – KHSAA Winter Esports State Championship Presented by UK HealthCare Field Is Set
• 11/16/23 – KHSAA Inaugural Indoor Track & Field Meet
• 11/16/23 – Swimming Postseason Updates
• 11/15/23 – Girls’ Wrestling Weight Classes and Season Implementation
• 11/15/2023 – Esports Spring 2024 Enrollment Is Now Open
• 11/14/23 – Basketball Roster/Schedule Entry/Prime Date Reminder
• 11/08/23 – Online Roster Maintenance Reminders Concerning Expanded Sport/Activities Offerings & Former Coed Only Teams
• 10/17/23- Wrestling Schools Reminded about Needed Information, Girls’ Wrestling; Wrestling Survey Results
• 10/16/23- REMINDER- KHSAA to Again Conduct Title IX Meetings, See Registration for 2023-2024
• 10/12/23 – KHSAA School Subdomain Control Panel/Sports Offerings Update
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US high school assignment asks students to answer 'Is God Real', Internet furious

The assignment, titled "how did the world start", included a question "is god real", that has sparked widespread debate online, with many questioning the appropriateness of the topic..

Listen to Story

• Oklahoma school assignment sparks controversy
• Questions about God and Satan included in assignment
• Parent's Facebook post ignites online debate

An assignment given to high-school students in the US state of Oklahoma has generated significant controversy after a parent shared a picture of the questions on Facebook. The assignment, titled "How did the world start?", included a question "Is God real?", that has sparked widespread debate online, with many questioning the appropriateness of the topic.

In a Facebook post, Olivia Gray shared her daughter Nettie’s world history assignment from a Skiatook Public Schools teacher.

“Is Satan real,” was also one of the questions in the assignment that asked students to provide sources using APA Style to support their answers.

The comments section was flooded with angry opinions as most users said that the assignment was “wrong on more than ten levels.”

One of the users also described the assignment as “disturbing”.

“I'm stunned and horrified they are even being allowed to push or preach their own personal religion/religious bias like that onto students in a public school in the United States. This is a clear violation of the first amendment,” a user said.

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‘Is God real? Is Satan real?’: US high school assignment sparks outrage, furious mother shares questions

High school students in oklahoma, us, were given a complex assignment that outrage parents and other social media users..

A new student at a high school in Oklahoma, United States, was given a tough assignment just one week into school. A woman shared on Facebook the world history homework assignment of her daughter earlier this month. The assignment was titled “How did the world start?”.

The assignment included questions such as "Is God real?", "Is Satan real?", and "What does it mean to be a Christian ?". The assignment also required students to answer the questions and provide a source using the APA (American Psychological Association) style of writing to support their answers.

The questions on religion, directed at high school students, made people question if they are suitable for an assignment.

Also Read: 5-year-old US boy finds gun in parent's bedroom, accidentally shoots himself dead: ‘Our hearts are shattered’

The Oklahoma student's mother, Olivia Gray, posted with a caption, “This is one of Nettie’s assignments for World History class. It’s being called a research paper. This is some crazy sh*t overall and also on a technical level. Literally the kid had been in school one week”.

Take a look at the post here:

Here's how people reacted to the post:

A user, Jenna Walkingstick, commented, "I would love to see the teacher’s grading rubric… that’s an assignment I would struggle with as a college level student. What are the “right” answers? I don’t think I even wanna know".

A second user, Lisa Lawson-Wallace, commented, “So now she is being forced to spill her personal beliefs and will be graded on such?”.

Also Read: Tired of alcoholics drinking on streets, Mumbai women beat them up with brooms

Another user, Jane Maslanka, commented, “This is insane. What sources is she supposed to use? I'm a teacher--and a challenging one. I have no trouble with a high school student (or even an upper middle school student) starting a research paper in week one. But this assignment is absolutely wack. I never thought I'd say this, but she'd be better off at Catholic School!”.

The mother's viral post garnered 375 reactions, 633 comments and 477 shares.

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Students are asked to explore the universe's beginnings and answer who created it. They are asked to comment on the origin of evil and whether evil had a specific start or has always existed. Students are also asked to discuss whether humans are naturally good, evil or neither.

The questions call for examining morality and religion, including an overview of Christianity , its beliefs, practices and values. Lastly, students are asked questions like, “Is God real? Is satan real?”

Netizens react

Netizens reacted to the questions and expressed surprise and shock at the same time.

“That’s an assignment I would struggle with as a college level student. What are the “right” answers? I don’t think I even wanna know,” wrote one user.

“I find it extremely disturbing content...And I thought there was separation of church and state in the US Constitution?” wrote another.

“So now she is being FORCED to spill her personal beliefs and will be graded on such?” posted another.

“A clear Violation of the Establishment Clause (U.S. Const. amend I). The school district's veiled attempt to recognize one religion over another. Why not let the student choose which religion they are to write about?” another Facebook user wrote.

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