HYLA High School Program

The HYLA High School Program is based on building college readiness, appreciation of community assets, and developing leadership potential.  This program is a traditional leadership program in that it targets eleventh grade students from all Hancock County schools (as well as their home-schooled equivalents) who aspire to sharpen already developed leadership skills and to embed those skills in civic commitment. The successful applicant will be the student who is able to:  1) balance academics and multiple activities while prioritizing this program; 2) plan and complete both individual and group projects; 3) be open-minded, have a positive attitude, and the capacity to enhance leadership skills; and 4) demonstrate a commitment to our community.  The program consists of an orientation, ten focused leadership training sessions,  and graduation.  Focused sessions include such topics as:  How to Affect Change; Civic Engagement; Career Planning and Budgeting; Economic Development and Entrepreneurship; College Planning (overnight "college cruise"); Community Assets; Diversity, Safety, and Wellness on Campus. The cost of the program is $250; applicants may request scholarships through the school that they attend.

The High School Program runs from January to December each year.  Applications for next year's class will be released in November 2020.

Hancock Youth Leadership Academy - 2020 High School Class

​For the 2019 HYLA High School Class Archive, click here.