Summer

Leaders In Training Program

Summer Program Leader In Training Opportunities

The Leaders in Training program is designed for rising 8th through 10th grade students who are ready to step into leadership in a meaningful way. This is not just a volunteer position. It is a guided leadership development experience built for teens who want to grow, be challenged, and make an impact. Our LITs work alongside professional educators, support younger campers, and learn what it truly means to lead with kindness, responsibility, and confidence. 
Shape 
Our Purpose 
The purpose of the LIT program is to help teens develop real-world leadership skills in a supportive, structured environment. 
Throughout the summer, LITs 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 
Leadership at camp is not about being in charge. It is about serving others, staying curious, and showing up with integrity. 
Shape 
What Makes Our Program Different 
This summer, our LITs 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, LITs 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 LITs 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 
We are deeply committed to investing in the growth of every teen who joins this program. 

A Note from the Summer Program Manager 
The LIT program is one of the parts of summer I care most deeply about. 

Middle school and early high school years can feel uncertain. Teens are figuring out who they are, what they stand for, and how they want to show up in the world. This program exists to give them a safe place to practice leadership while being supported by adults who genuinely believe in them. 

We are not looking for perfect teens. We are looking for teens who are willing to grow. 

Our leadership team is committed to walking alongside each LIT, offering feedback, encouragement, and real responsibility. When a young person realizes that adults trust them to lead, something shifts. Confidence grows. Ownership develops. Character strengthens. 
If your child is ready to step into that kind of challenge, we would love to see them apply. 

— Chanel Sudds 
Summer Programs Manager 

How to Apply:

Weekly Commitment & Structure 
The LIT program runs during our five-week summer session (July 6 through August 7, 2026). 

We are accepting a maximum of 20 LITs 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. 
Shape 
What LITs Will Actually Do 
LITs 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. 

LITs are emerging leaders learning how to contribute to a dynamic summer program. 

What LITs 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 
Most importantly, they leave knowing they are capable of leading with heart. 
Shape 
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 
Our goal is for this program to feel intentional, structured, and growth-oriented.  Volunteer hours will be documented for students who need them for school or service requirements. 

Application Steps

To be considered for the program, applicants must complete the Microsoft Form by Friday, March 27.

Applicants who submit their completed application will hear from our team to set up times to volunteer in aftercare. Interviews will be held after applicants volunteer.

Applicants must volunteer twice in aftercare by Wednesday, April 29.

Applicants will be notified if they are accepted or not by Friday, May 1.

The team will register successful applicants into the program and communicate registration details with the parent/guardian.



Applications are now OPEN!

APPLY HERE 

L.I.T Fees:

  • $350 Tuition for 3 weeks
The LIT fee covers the cost of group training sessions and one-to-one guidance LITs will receive from the LIT Program Manager.


Responsibilities

We hold our LITs to a high standard because we believe they are capable of it. 

LITs are expected to: 
  • Arrive on time and prepared 
  • Commit fully to the weeks they register for 
  • Follow all camp policies 
  • Demonstrate maturity and professionalism 
  • Be open to feedback and growth 
  • Lead with kindness, inclusivity, respect, and responsibility 
When teens are treated like leaders, they rise to that expectation. 

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Open Window School

6128 168th Place SE,
Bellevue, WA 98006
Phone: 425.747.2911
Email: ows@ows.org
Open Window School provides a challenging academic curriculum blended with nurturing support from teachers that prepares students for long-term success.
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