Among members of the 2023-2024 class for Kosciusko Youth Leadership Academy are, in front, from left: Marisol Anahi Cervantes Maldonado, Warsaw Community High School; Piper Elrod, Lakeland Christian Academy; and Ella Beer, Wawasee High School. In back, from left: Colton Crabb, Tippecanoe Valley High School; Amy Brown, Whitko Junior-Senior High School; and Travis Barnhart, Triton Junior-Senior High School. Photo provided by Kosciusko Youth Leadership Academy.

News Release

WARSAW — The first meeting of the year was recently held at Warsaw Community Church for the Kosciusko Youth Leadership Academy Class of 2023–2024.

The 28 high school juniors in this year’s class are from Lakeland Christian Academy, Tippecanoe Valley High School, Triton Junior-Senior High School, Warsaw Community High School, Wawasee High School, Whitko Junior-Senior High School and home school. The attendees participated in mixer games and leadership role-playing exercises while also getting to know the KYLA board members and learning what to anticipate for the upcoming year.

Students in KYLA learn the fundamentals of leadership during monthly sessions held at various sites across Kosciusko County. At these meetings, they receive an overview of different aspects of the community, including government, health care, agriculture and service organizations. By undertaking a group community service project of their choosing and sharing their experiences, they will have the chance to further explore their leadership abilities.

The next KYLA meeting will take place Wednesday, Oct. 4, at Cardinal Services.

Kosciusko Youth Leadership Academy exists to provide a positive environment where aspiring high school juniors can learn the basics of leadership and become informed, capable leaders who assume active roles in the growth of the community. For more information, visit www.kosciuskoyouthleadership.org or follow KYLA on Facebook.