Leadership

Innovative Leadership Academy for High School Students

The need for teen community involvement has been identified as a priority issue relating to youth development across the Commonwealth. 4-H InnoVAtive Leadership Academy was designed to address this issue. This program for high school students incorporates the six modules outlined in VCE’s InnoVAtive Leadership curriculum covering leadership qualities and styles, communication skills, decision making, and strategic planning. Participants will work in groups to identify and prioritize issues facing the community. They will then develop goals and strategies to address these issues. As a capstone event, groups will present their work in a public forum. As a result of participating in this program, teens will gain a better understanding of the characteristics and behaviors of a leader. They will see local government at work in order to better understand decision-making processes.

Middle School Leadership Programs

4-H utilizes a number of available curricula and resources to help middle school students develop leadership skills. Similar to Innovative Leadership Academy, middle schoolers will learn about leadership traits and styles. They will discuss ways to communicate effectively and decision making strategies. Middle school leadership programs also focus on teamwork skills and helping youth work together to solve problems.

If you are interested in learning more about 4-H Leadership programs and how they can work for your students, please contact Jennifer Bowen - jebowen1@vt.edu or (434)738-6191 ext. 4371.