YOUTH LEADERSHIP ACADEMY
Three years to discover the leader inside every Stark County student.
The Youth Leadership Academy (YLA) is a premier leadership development program for Stark County high school students.
Over three years, participants engage in experiential learning that builds self-awareness, community knowledge, and professional skills, preparing them to be the next generation of leaders.
Who it’s for
Stark County students entering 10th grade
Length
3 years
Sophomore–Senior year
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6 Sophomore days + opening retreat
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6 Junior days
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2 Senior days
Schedule
School-day sessions, typically 7:45 AM–1:30 PM
Cost
Free to students
Covered by participating high schools
How the three years build
Year 1 · LEARN
Sophomore
Personal Leadership & Awareness
The foundation year helps students understand who they are as leaders, how Stark County works, and how to begin building meaningful connections. Sutdejt cliffton strenghs
Year 2 · GROW
Junior
Community Systems & Exploration
Juniors explore education pathways, leadership skills, and career readiness while thinking more intentionally about their future role in the community.
Year 3 · SERVE
Senior
Service & Graduation
The capstone year focuses on putting leadership into action through service, reflecting on the full YLA journey, and preparing for life beyond high school
Participating High Schools
➤ Wants to build confidence and leadership skills
➤ Is interested in meeting students from across Stark County
➤ Wants to learn more about themselves and their strengths
YLA is a great fit if your student…
➤ Enjoys hands-on experiences, service, and trying new things
➤ Wants to make a positive impact at school and in their community
➤ Is curious about careers, colleges, and opportunities in the community
Skills students build along the way
➤ Managing Conflict: Healthy ways to navigate disagreements.
➤ Communication Skills: Effective verbal and written engagement.
➤ Appreciation of Differences: Learning from diverse perspectives.
➤ Trust Building: Earning and granting trust in collaborative teams.
➤ Problem Solving: Addressing community challenges with creative thinking.
➤ Self-awareness of their unique Strengths (CliftonStrengths).
➤ Deeper connection to Stark County and its community resources.
➤ A cohort of peers from across the county.
➤ Confidence to take on leadership roles in school and clubs.
➤ Practical networking skills with community and business leaders.
➤ A recognized certification of completion from Leadership Stark County.
What students walk away with
Youth Leadership Academy FAQ's
EXPLORE PROGRAMS
Leadership for every step.
I have learned about amazing organizations and individuals in Stark.
The program has broadened my perspective on what it means to be a leader.