EPIC LEADERSHIP ACADEMY

The EPIC Youth Council is a dynamic initiative designed to foster direct communication and collaboration between students and the EPIC staff. Comprising two student representatives from each grade, 7 through 12, the council plays a crucial role in shaping the direction and effectiveness of program activities. These representatives participate in quarterly meetings with EPIC staff, where they review ongoing and upcoming program activities, contribute valuable feedback, and propose innovative ideas.   

In addition to their advisory role, council members are tasked with reporting on current trends and the general state of young people in their environments. This includes insights into student interests, challenges, and cultural dynamics, ensuring that the EPIC program remains relevant and responsive to the actual needs of the students it serves. Through this structured engagement, the EPIC Youth Council empowers students to take an active role in their educational and extracurricular experiences, enhancing the program’s overall impact. 

 We aim to designate one boy and one girl representative for each grade level. However, our primary emphasis lies in assessing the qualifications and capacities of prospective council members, prioritizing capabilities over gender.  Membership will exclusively derive from the pool of applicants that meet the application deadline. 

OBJECTIVES: 

1. Enhance Student Involvement: Empower students by giving them a significant role in the decision-making processes related to program activities and policies, thereby fostering a sense of ownership and engagement. 
2. Facilitate Two-Way Communication: Establish a reliable communication channel between students and EPIC staff to ensure that student feedback and suggestions are heard and considered, enhancing the relevance and effectiveness of the program. 
3. Gather and Integrate Student Feedback: Regularly collect and discuss feedback from a diverse group of students to improve current programs and develop new initiatives that meet the evolving needs of the student body. 
4. Promote Leadership and Responsibility: Encourage leadership skills and a sense of responsibility among council members as they represent their peers and advocate for their interests and needs. 
5. Monitor Trends and Needs: Keep the EPIC staff updated on the latest trends, challenges, and interests affecting youth, ensuring that the program remains dynamic and responsive. 
6. Idea Generation and Problem Solving: Leverage the unique perspectives of students from different grades to generate creative solutions and ideas that enhance the educational and social experience offered by the program.

MEETING DATES: 

EPIC YOUTH COUNCIL RESPONSIBILITIES: 

• Attend Meetings: Participate in quarterly meetings with EPIC staff to discuss program strategies, review activities, and address student concerns. 
• Provide Feedback: Offer constructive feedback on program activities, including what is working well and what could be improved, based on their own experiences and those of their peers. 
• Report Trends: Regularly gather and report on current trends, interests, and issues affecting students within the school. This includes social, academic, and cultural trends that can influence program direction. 
• Serve as Liaisons: Act as intermediaries between the student body and the EPIC staff, ensuring that students’ voices are represented in the program’s planning and execution. 
• Propose Initiatives: Suggest new ideas and initiatives that could enhance student engagement and satisfaction with the EPIC program. 
• Promote Program Activities: Help in promoting program activities and encouraging participation among the student body to ensure wide-reaching involvement and engagement. 
• Lead by Example: Uphold the highest standards of conduct and academic commitment as role models for the student community. 

REQUIREMENTS FOR EPIC YOUTH COUNCIL MEMBERS: 

• Grade Level: Students must be enrolled in grades 7 through 12 
• 2.8 or higher GPA 
• Completed at least one (1) Eryn PiNK Girl Empowerment or Men of ICE Leadership Program

• Commitment: Willingness to commit to the full term of the council membership, typically one academic year, and actively participate in all scheduled meetings. 

• Communication Skills: Strong verbal and written communication skills to effectively share ideas, feedback, and concerns between students and EPIC staff. 

• Leadership Qualities: Demonstrated leadership potential and the ability to represent and advocate for the interests of their peers. 

• Academic Standing: Good academic standing within their school to ensure that council members are capable of balancing council responsibilities with their academic obligations. 

• Good Conduct: A record of good behavior in school, showing respect, responsibility, and maturity as they will serve as role models for their peers. 

• Engagement: A genuine interest in the enhancement and success of the EPIC program and the welfare of fellow students. 

• Collaborative Spirit: Ability to work cooperatively with others, including fellow council members and EPIC staff, to achieve common goals. 

• Innovative Thinking: A willingness to bring new ideas and fresh perspectives to the council to help improve and evolve the program. 

• Feedback Provision: Comfort with providing honest and constructive feedback on various aspects of the program.