Rockdale Youth Leadership is looking for sophomore nominees for this leadership development program.

RYL provides leadership development and community awareness training for 10th grade students in Rockdale County. Through collaboration with the Conyers-Rockdale Chamber of Commerce and Rockdale County Public Schools, aspiring youth leaders will have the opportunity to interact with local decision makers and participate in community service activities.

During the program, students will interact with community leaders, local elected officials, and school administrators to enhance their awareness of community needs and resources.Through interactive workshops, special tours, and community service projects, RYL participants develop the knowledge and skills necessary to become confident, caring leaders in their community and respective schools.

To be nominated for participation in RYL, students must have met the following criteria:

• Demonstrate leadership potential. (school/community)
• Minimum 2.5 GPA.
• Student in good standing with clear attendance and behavior records.
• Willing to participate in community volunteerism.
• Willing to participate in all sessions after school including some Saturdays.
• Willing to pursue a school leadership role following participation in the program.

The RYL program is held from September 2014 through April 2015. Please review the entire RYL application packet to understand all of the requirements. The RYL Class of 2015 will kick-off on Thursday, September 25, with an orientation session. Program sessions include: Leadership Retreat, Protecting Our Community, Working in Our Community, Teen Leadership Summit at RCA, Culture in Our Community, Caring in Our Community, Leading in Our Community, Educating Our Community, Giving Back to Our Community, and Graduation.

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact Caroline St. John, RCPS Work-Based Learning & Youth Apprenticeship Coordinator, 770-388-5677 x 31303 or cstjohn@rockdale.k12.ga.us.