The Youth Academy empowers over 80 high school students each year with the skills, mentorship, and experiences they need to lead with confidence, serve their community, and build a strong foundation for future success.
The Student Leadership Academy is a year-round leadership and development program dedicated to equipping the next generation of leaders in Prince George’s County. Now serving nearly 300 high school students across the district, the Academy provides structured opportunities that build confidence, strengthen communication skills, and cultivate professional readiness. Through workshops, mentorship, service initiatives, and career exposure experiences, students gain the tools and perspective needed to thrive academically, personally, and professionally.
The Summer Recreation Series serves as an extension of this work, keeping students engaged beyond the school year through enrichment, team-building, and experiential learning. By blending growth with meaningful connection and exposure, the Academy ensures students are supported consistently — investing not only in their future success, but in who they are becoming every day.
The Youth Academy is built on creating moments that inspire, challenge, and expand possibilities for young leaders. Through hands-on experiences—from civic engagement to cultural exploration and community celebrations—students gain opportunities to learn, grow, and see the world through new perspectives.
Our Student Leadership Academy’s trip to Massanutten was more than a getaway — it was an intentional opportunity for growth, connection, and community-building. Over several days, our young leaders stepped outside their comfort zones through snow tubing, skiing, snowboarding, and other adventure-based activities designed to build confidence and resilience.
Beyond the slopes, the experience created space for deeper conversations, laughter, and authentic peer connection. From team bonding over meals and bowling strikes to basketball runs, arcade games, and shared reflection, students strengthened relationships that will carry far beyond the trip itself.
For many of our student leaders, attending WWE Live was a first — and the energy in the arena was unforgettable. What may look like a night of entertainment was also an intentional opportunity for exposure, celebration, and shared experience.
At the Student Leadership Academy, we believe development includes moments of joy. Experiences like this allow our students to explore new environments, bond with their peers, and celebrate the hard work they commit to both inside and outside the classroom. By creating space for fun alongside growth, we reinforce that leadership is about balance — striving for excellence while also embracing the moments that make the journey memorable.
Attending A Step Afrika! Holiday performance was a vibrant and culturally rich experience for our Student Leadership Academy. From the powerful rhythms to the dynamic choreography, our students were immersed in an art form that celebrates history, storytelling, and community.
More than just a show, the experience created space for cultural appreciation, confidence, and joyful expression — with a few of our students even stepping onto the dance floor themselves. Moments like these allow our young leaders to connect with the arts, celebrate the holiday season together, and build shared memories that strengthen their sense of belonging.
Our District 8 Student Leadership Academy explored the Prince George’s County Courthouse— gaining firsthand exposure to the justice system, civic engagement, and the many careers that support our courts and community.
Opportunities like this help our students see beyond the classroom, expand their understanding of the world around them, and imagine themselves in roles they may have never considered before.
Our students joined the Susan G. Komen Foundation for their local 5K Walk — standing in solidarity with survivors, families, and advocates in the fight against breast cancer.
These moments remind us what leadership truly looks like — showing up, serving others, and giving back to the community that gives so much to us.
Our students attended the Can We Talk? 2025 Arts & Wellness Multicultural Summit, and what a weekend it was — three days filled with impact, inspiration, wellness, and reflection.
From hip-hop therapy and yoga to art, dance, and real conversations, our students explored what it means to show up as their best selves — individually and collectively.
We’re deeply grateful to the Boris L. Henson Foundation and County Council Chair Edward Burroughs III for investing in the wellness of our community and creating spaces where our youth can heal, express, and grow.
From vision boarding to powerful workshops, our young women came together for a retreat focused on growth, connection, and self-discovery. Surrounded by encouragement and equipped with new skills, they left inspired to step boldly into the next chapter of their journeys. We believe in creating spaces where our student leaders can dream big, build confidence, and develop the tools they need to thrive.
Just a few miles up the road, our students stepped into the electric atmosphere of an NFL game to cheer on the hometown Ravens against the Washington Commanders. The energy was contagious, the connections were meaningful, and the moment was made even more special by having our council members join us for a day of community and excitement.
Students rolled up their sleeves for a hands-on car workshop designed to teach practical life skills. From changing a tire and checking under-the-hood maintenance to cleaning and detailing, they learned the importance of caring for their vehicles. This experience was more than just mechanics—it was about building confidence, independence, and responsibility.
Crossing the border into Canada, our students explored a new culture while creating unforgettable memories together. From visiting the aquarium to enjoying amusement parks and local attractions, the trip was filled with opportunities for learning, bonding, and broadening their view of the world. It was more than a getaway—it was a journey of discovery and connection.
To wrap up the summer before the school year began, our student leaders enjoyed an evening of bowling, laughter, and friendly competition. This simple yet memorable activity gave students a chance to bond, celebrate the season, and head into the new year with renewed energy and connection.
Our student leaders had the chance to quite literally take flight at iFly Indoor Skydiving! This thrilling adventure gave them a taste of life off the ground while encouraging them to embrace new experiences with confidence. Beyond the fun, it was a powerful reminder that with courage and curiosity, the sky is never the limit.
Our students had the unforgettable opportunity to explore the vibrant culture and beauty of Puerto Rico. From sightseeing historic landmarks to late-night kayaking under the stars, arcade games, and so much more, the trip was both adventurous and enriching—offering students a chance to connect with each other while experiencing a new culture firsthand
Adventure and bonding came alive in the Poconos! Students took on outdoor challenges, including ziplining through the trees, team activities, and nature exploration. The trip created space for fun, courage, and connection as students built stronger relationships with each other.
Though just around the corner, this trip was a first for more than half of our students. Attending a Washington Nationals game provided exposure to the excitement of live professional sports while also offering a chance for students to enjoy community, connection, and hometown pride.
The trip to Chicago blended exploration and fun with cultural connection. Students visited iconic landmarks like The Bean, explored neighborhoods, and participated in group activities that deepened their relationships while opening their eyes to one of the country’s great cities.
The District Youth Leadership Awards served as the capstone celebration of the academic year, recognizing and honoring students for their dedication, growth, and leadership. Scholarships were awarded, achievements were highlighted, and students were celebrated for their resilience and hard work. The evening marked not just the end of a chapter, but the beginning of bright futures for the young leaders who continue to inspire their communities.
For many students, the New York City trip was their first time experiencing one of the world’s most iconic cities. Over the course of the visit, students explored cultural landmarks, sampled diverse cuisines, and took part in guided tours that highlighted the city’s rich history and vibrant neighborhoods. This immersive experience expanded their horizons, sparked curiosity, and offered unforgettable memories of learning beyond the classroom.
Students enjoyed an afternoon of friendly competition while strengthening bonds with peers and mentors. Beyond the games, the experience underscored the importance of balance—reminding students that leadership is also about building community, celebrating wins, and creating joyful moments along the journey.
The Boris L. Henson Men’s Health Symposium gave students an opportunity to engage with critical conversations around health, wellness, and resilience. The event emphasized mental and physical well-being, particularly within communities of color, and connected students with experts who offered strategies for leading healthier lives. Students left with a deeper understanding of the importance of prioritizing self-care as they step into leadership and adulthood.
Students stepped inside the fast-paced world of journalism during a visit to WUSA9, their local news station. They explored careers in broadcasting, communications, and production while witnessing where their community’s stories are told each day. From the newsroom to the studio, this experience gave students an inside look at media’s role in shaping narratives, amplifying voices, and keeping communities informed.
The Youth Leadership Conference was a full-day summit dedicated to equipping students with the tools to lead, grow, and succeed. Through inspiring keynote speakers, hands-on skill-building workshops, and career-focused sessions, students gained practical strategies for implementation, motivation to pursue their goals, and exposure to new professional pathways. The conference created an energizing environment where future leaders were challenged to think bigger and act boldly.
Attending a Washington Wizards game gave students a chance to experience professional sports, teamwork, and community pride in action. Beyond the excitement of the game, this outing reinforced lessons in leadership, perseverance, and the importance of engaging with the broader community.
At the Maryland State House in Annapolis, students engaged with legislators and observed the legislative process in action. This trip provided insight into state governance, advocacy, and public service, inspiring students to understand the power of civic involvement and their potential impact in shaping policy.
Through guided mock interviews, students practiced professional communication, self-presentation, and career readiness. This experience gave them the chance to sharpen their skills in a real-world setting, receive constructive feedback, and build confidence in pursuing future academic and career opportunities.
Students gained hands-on training in CPR and first aid, equipping them with practical, life-saving skills that build both confidence and responsibility. This experience reinforced the importance of being prepared to respond in critical situations and highlighted the impact of using knowledge to serve and protect their communities.
Our students celebrated a year of growth and achievement with a fun-filled trip to Dave & Buster’s. This experience combined recreation with reflection, giving students a chance to bond, celebrate accomplishments, and reinforce the value of teamwork, leadership, and community engagement.
The Student Leadership Academy has helped me lay a foundation for my future career at zero cost, by building my confidence in leadership, public speaking, networking, and so much more, and for that I am more than grateful.
The District 8 Student Leadership Academy gave me a space to be my full, authentic self—and I was welcomed with open arms. As someone who often feels the need to shrink themselves, it was refreshing to be embraced exactly as I am. Throughout the program, I’ve gained not only valuable skills like public speaking and career readiness, but also genuine friendships with like-minded peers who inspire and uplift me.
The District 8 Student Leadership Academy helped me improve my confidence, public speaking skills, and connected me with making lifelong friends and mentors.
The District 8 Student Leadership Academy helped me advocate better for myself, learn to ask important questions, and network professionally. It also helped me meet new people and step out of my comfort zone.
