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 usually runs from January to December each year, however, due to COVID-19 the application process for the HYLA Class of 2021 has been delayed.

Hancock Youth Leadership Academy - 2020 High School Class

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