Fifty students from the Rome City Schools Superintendent’s Student Advisory Council will take part in a new leadership development program through a partnership with the University of Georgia’s J.W. Fanning Institute for Leadership Development.
The students will engage in the Youth Leadership in Action (YLIA) program, which is based on research and developed by the Fanning Institute. The curriculum aligns with the Georgia Standards of Excellence and aims to build skills in communication, team building, goal setting, problem solving, and community engagement.
“Our goal is to empower students with the tools they need to be confident leaders not only in their schools, but also in their communities,” said Beverly E. Johnson, Ed.D., director of the J.W. Fanning Institute for Leadership Development.
The J.W. Fanning Institute for Leadership Development operates as part of UGA’s Office of Public Service and Outreach and offers leadership training across Georgia. The institute focuses on youth, community, nonprofit leadership, conflict resolution, and dialogue.
The Superintendent’s Youth Advisory Council includes student representatives from Rome Middle and Rome High School who work with district leaders on school improvement efforts.
Through participation in YLIA, students are expected to improve their leadership abilities, collaboration skills, and civic engagement experience. Over the school year, they will attend workshops and hands-on learning sessions aimed at increasing their understanding of leadership and preparing them for future academic or professional roles.
“Student voice matters. This partnership with UGA and the Fanning Institute helps elevate our commitment to developing thoughtful, compassionate student leaders who can positively influence their schools and communities,” said Rome City Schools Superintendent Dr. Eric L. Holland. “This is another great learning and growing opportunity that we are able to provide for our Youth Advisory Council members, and we’re excited for this great opportunity.”
Last year, members of the Youth Advisory Council addressed school issues with local officials such as Rome City Commissioners and visited the state capital to learn about broader topics affecting Georgia youth. The addition of YLIA is intended to further support these students’ growth as future leaders.
More information about the Youth Leadership in Action program can be found at www.fanning.uga.edu.
For details about the Superintendent’s Youth Advisory Council, contact Jim Alred at james.alred@rcs.rome.ga.us.
