The conferences feature motivational speakers and exciting interactive workshops, which are designed to empower youth to seek out and engage in future leadership opportunities. Workshops focus on the development of communication skills, understanding individual strengths, and working in teams. Workshops are led by state 4-H faculty and staff members, 4-H center staff, and UGA county Extension agents, associates, and program assistants. When asked what she and her leadership students had learned through Step-Up and Lead, Susan Payne, an eighth grade teacher from Feagin Mill Middle School stated, “We have learned many things that the kids can actually take back to school with them and truly be a leader. They know what it means to be a leader and a role model for the other students at our school.” According to Mr. Beaver, “The University of Georgia Extension Service, Georgia Elementary School Principals, and Georgia Middle School Principals have developed a wonderful program called Step-Up and Lead. It fosters leadership development in elementary and middle school students. The standards that they have developed go right along with our state standards, and the program is located at different facilities throughout the state. We encourage you as a principal, as an educator, to get your students involved in this wonderful program.” The past five years of Step-Up and Lead have not only strengthened Georgia 4-H’s partnerships with schools, but the years have also strengthened the leadership abilities of elementary and middle school students across the state—an impact that will continue into the future.
13 . CLOVERLEAF 2015