Jesus said “Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first among you must be your slave; just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life– a ransom for many.” (Mat 20:26-28 CSB)
Student Leadership Institute (SLI) is designed to guide students through a process of leadership development that helps to conform students to the image of Jesus. SLi purposes to develop Servant Leaders through a Biblically-based, practical, multi-faceted year long process that begins with an orientation/training session and ends with a celebration session. SLI is open to students in the ninth through twelfth grades and meets weekly throughout the school year.
Core Principles
Think
The Thinking Principle consists of leading students to be able to think biblically, critically and creatively. This takes place through lecture, Socratic discussion, debate, etc.
Serve
The Serving Principle consists of leading students to develop the skills necessary to lead in an active environment. This may involve serving each other through interactive activities, serving in leadership positions, serving as mentors, serving on advisory panels, etc. This principle also encourages students to lead through serving in their local churches and communities, thus further developing their leadership skills.
Engage
The Engaging Principle provides opportunities for students to creatively engage the larger society in the realm of evangelism and discipleship, as well as to provide creative solutions to societal problems.
Program Components
- Leadership Courses: Exposure to Issues, Critical & Creative Thinking Skills, Socratic Discussions
- Leadership Opportunities: Service Opportunities
- Leadership Skill Development: Speaking, Organizing, Disicpling/Mentoring
- Leadership Conferences: Summer conference opportunities through national SLi
Eligibility
- Students in grades 9-12
- Student demonstrates a personal commitment to Jesus Christ
- Student demonstrates high moral character and God-honoring lifestyle
- Student willing to make necessary commitment
- Parents/Guardians of student attend orientation and assist staff in holding student accountable
Application Process
- Complete and return application packet (available here)
- Attend mandatory one hour SLi Orientation/Training session
Other SLi Forms may be downloaded below (PDF links coming soon!)
- Application Packet
- Absence Form
- Record of Servant Leadership Guidelines
- Record of Servant Leadership
- Book Form
- Book Form to Request Book