Youth Leadership St. Johns Government & Law Day

Tara Howard reported to the St. Johns County local news desk that the Youth Leadership St. Johns – Class of 2010, enjoyed Government and Law Day, January 19th; including a visit to the Government Complex where they heard from St. Johns County Commissioners.

Youth Leadership St. Johns, a program of the St. Johns County Chamber of Commerce, is a series of fun and educational program days designed to give high school juniors a hands-on exploration of St. Johns County. Participants meet community leaders and learn about community resources they might not otherwise.

The mission is to develop a corps of informed, committed and qualified young people; capable of providing dynamic leadership in their schools, careers and communities as they mature into adulthood.

Participants of the program learn the importance of teamwork and gain a better understanding of what it means to be a leader during the two-day opening retreat. Then, they put those teamwork and leadership skills to use over the course of eight program days; including Law Day, Social Services Day, and Business Day.

At the end of the program, students have met a number of key contacts throughout their community; have a clear idea of what makes St. Johns County work and a ton of fun memories from the experience!

Three students are selected from each of the six St. Johns County high schools accredited by Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, as well as two students from St. Joseph Academy and Florida School for the Deaf and Blind.

Those interested in applying must have a cumulative grade point average of 2.0 and must maintain that average throughout the course of the year.

Students chosen for the program have demonstrated a high standard of character and behavior, an interest in leadership and extra-curricular activities and a desire to learn about and help their community.

The deadline for application and reference forms is February 26, 2010. Enrollment is open to all qualified St. Johns County high school sophomores who would like to participate during their junior year in 2010-2011.

If you are a high school sophomore, or their parent, and are interested in Youth Leadership St. Johns, contact Tara Howard at 904-829-5681.