Leaders In Training Program

LEADERS IN TRAINING PROGRAM

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LEADERS IN TRAINING (8-10)

A guided leadership development experience built for teens entering grades 8 through 10


View the Offering Guide 


The Leaders in Training (LIT) program is designed for rising 8th through 10th grade students who are ready to step into leadership in a meaningful way.  Our LITs work alongside professional educators, support younger campers, and learn what it truly means to lead with kindness, responsibility, and confidence. 

 

OUR PURPOSE

The purpose of the Leaders in Training program is to help teens develop real-world leadership skills in a supportive, structured environment. 

Throughout the summer, Leaders in Training will build skills in: 

  • Communication and public speaking
  • Supporting and mentoring younger campers
  • Conflict resolution and problem solving
  • Professionalism and workplace responsibility
  • Giving and receiving feedback
  • Reflection, goal setting, and growth  
     


Applications for Summer 2026 are now closed — check back next Spring for more information! 


 

WHAT MAKES OUR PROGRAM DIFFERENT


This summer, our Leaders in Training will experience a more hands-on leadership model. Rather than working under a single director, our entire summer leadership team will share responsibility in mentoring and coaching LITs. 

Each day, Leaders in Training will engage with different leaders across our program, including: 

  • Camp Directors
  • Assistant Directors
  • Specialist Teachers
  • Program Leads
  • Community partners and guest educators 

This approach allows Leaders in Training to: 

  • Experience multiple leadership styles
  • Receive more individualized feedback
  • Build strong relationships with staff across programs
  • Learn how leadership looks in different environments
  • Engage with leaders beyond our immediate camp team 

 

Older student leading younger group of students

HOW TO APPLY

Application

Applications for Summer 2026 are now closed — check back next Spring for more information! 

 

FAQs
Weekly Commitment & Structure 

The Leaders in Training program runs during our five-week summer session (July 6 through August 7, 2026).

We are accepting a maximum of 20 Leaders in Training total, with the goal of: 

  • 10 new LITs
  • 10 returning LITs
  • New LITs may register for Weeks 1, 2, and 3.
  • Returning LITs may register for Weeks 1, 4, and 5.

If a student is available and committed for all five weeks, they are welcome to participate for the full summer.

Consistency matters. Younger campers quickly build relationships with LITs, and we want our teens to feel invested in their role. 

What Leaders in Training Will Actually Do 

Leaders in Training are active participants in camp life. 

A typical day may include: 

  • Morning leadership check-ins and goal setting
  • Supporting camper groups during transitions and activities
  • Assisting specialist teachers in classrooms
  • Helping facilitate games or group activities
  • Modeling positive behavior and inclusion
  • Participating in structured reflection and feedback sessions 

    During one of their volunteer days, all LITs will design and lead a simple game or activity for campers. This allows them to practice planning, communication, and group management skills in a supported environment.
What Leaders in Training Gain 

By the end of the summer, our goal is that each LIT walks away with: 

  • Increased confidence
  • Clear leadership experience for resumes and applications
  • Stronger communication skills
  • Practical tools for working with children
  • Experience receiving professional feedback
  • A deeper understanding of responsibility and teamwork 
Training & Professional Development 

Before stepping into their roles, LITs participate in required training sessions focused on: 

  • Working with younger children
  • Behavior management strategies
  • Professional communication
  • Camp safety and expectations
  • Leadership identity and responsibility
  • Throughout the summer, LITs will also have opportunities to learn from:
    • Members of our camp leadership team
    • Specialist educators
    • Guest speakers and community professionals 

Volunteer hours will be documented for students who need them for school or service requirements.