Student Leadership Institute 2025: A Summer of Growth and Service
This summer, the Student Leadership Institute brought together passionate high school and middle school students from across Montgomery County for a season of growth, teamwork, and community impact.
At the heart of the program were nine high school co-instructors, selected for their leadership qualities and dedication to service. Many were returning co-instructors or former SLI participants, bringing valuable experience and insight. Beginning in June, they collaborated closely with the program manager to design every lesson, activity, and project. Their hard work paid off – every co-instructor reported growth in leadership skills and 100% satisfaction with their experience, while also earning up to 22 SSL hours.
Alongside them were 33 middle school participants, representing diverse backgrounds and schools across MCPS. Throughout the program, they explored leadership fundamentals – from public speaking and teamwork to problem solving and time management. They also studied the RIASEC framework used for college and career readiness, helping them identify their strengths and skills.
Service was central to their experience. Together, students completed four impactful service projects:
- Creating origami for Kits 2 Heart
- Decorating art journals for Kits 2 Heart
- Writing letters of gratitude for So What Else volunteers and local first responders
- Decorating bookmarks for Small Things Matter
Participants also practiced turning ideas into action during a mini-lesson with Dave Silbert, then formed teams to identify real-world challenges facing the community. Each team researched a problem, created a PSA video, and developed detailed service project plans. These thoughtful projects were presented to families and guests at the program’s closing showcase.
By the end of the summer, every participant walked away with new leadership skills, meaningful service experiences, and a stronger sense of how to make a difference. Middle school students earned up to 12 SSL hours for their work.
The 2025 Student Leadership Institute not only empowered students to grow as leaders but also reminded us all of the power of young people to spark change in their communities.
