Parent Information for Accepted Students
Thank you for supporting your child's participation in Regional Youth Leadership. Below are common topics that impact parents and guardians. Feel free to contact Ann Marie if you have questions.
When will we receive information about each session?
One-week before session, students and parents will receive an email with session information. Please review this important communication for the session address, parking instructions, lunch, attire, session objectives, etc.
Parents can also find up to date information on this website should there be questions regarding future sessions.
Parents can also find up to date information on this website should there be questions regarding future sessions.
How do we manage student drop off, pick up, & parking?
Monthly session emails will include information regarding drop off, pick up, and parking. While rare, there may be occasions in which the pick-up location will be different from the drop-off location. Be sure to read through session communications for possible changes.
We do our best to find free parking for our sessions yet there are times when this is not possible. On session days in which parking is not covered, we ask that students pay for their own parking fees or wait for a volunteer to accompany them to the pay machine so that we can help cover the cost.
Volunteers will remain with students until they have been picked up. We kindly ask that all students be picked up by 3:15.
We do our best to find free parking for our sessions yet there are times when this is not possible. On session days in which parking is not covered, we ask that students pay for their own parking fees or wait for a volunteer to accompany them to the pay machine so that we can help cover the cost.
Volunteers will remain with students until they have been picked up. We kindly ask that all students be picked up by 3:15.
How are sessions planned?
RYL Sessions are planned by the RYL Steering Committee, a group of dedicated volunteers. These individuals help to build the content of each session and rely on their personal networks to identify speakers and venues. Since most venues are donated, there are times when we must wait to confirm a date and location before sharing the information with the class.
What are the expectations of RYL Parents?
Our hope is that you will help your child take ownership of this experience. We view this as an opportunity for them to prepare for life after high school by managing their own communication, keeping up with session evaluations, asking thoughtful questions of speakers and volunteers, and keeping their parents informed of session logistics.
Parents are included on all session emails so that they have the logistical details for each meeting. For those that are providing transportation for their child, we ask that students arrive and depart in a timely manner. RYL volunteers will arrive to session locations by 7:30 a.m., if not sooner (8:00 am for Retreat). An adult will remain until all students have been picked up so if you are significantly delayed, please let us know.
Parents are included on all session emails so that they have the logistical details for each meeting. For those that are providing transportation for their child, we ask that students arrive and depart in a timely manner. RYL volunteers will arrive to session locations by 7:30 a.m., if not sooner (8:00 am for Retreat). An adult will remain until all students have been picked up so if you are significantly delayed, please let us know.
What leadership skills will my child learn?
As a community-based leadership program we strive to demonstrate the amazing and unique aspects of our region. The program is part of the talent attraction and retention strategy for GROW NKY and strives to develop the next generation of leaders. RYL focuses on team building and intercommunication skills. The content of each session varies but there is an overall balance of lecture, activity, and career information.
How can I help RYL?
Parents of RYL students and alumni can support the program in the following ways:
- Volunteer at the RYL Life Success Skills Session in February to help students practice their elevator pitch and networking skills.
- Join the RYL Steering Committee as a volunteer. Contact Ann Marie Whelan for additional information.
- Ask your company to host the class for a session or sponsor lunch.
- Visit the 'Support RYL' section of our website to learn about Kroger Community Rewards and Amazon Smile programs.
Will the school be notified of RYL Sessions?
Your school representative will receive a copy of the session reminder email. Most schools use this communication to document the absence. Students are encouraged to speak with teachers regarding missed work prior to the absence.
How was my child selected to participate in RYL?
Guidance counselors, school representatives, and RYL alumni help us to identify potential applicants to the program. Students are selected based on the quality of their responses to application questions as well as response alignment to the mission and vision of the program.
Advice from Past RYL Parents...
- "Talk through lessons with your child before and after each session. Plan ahead for several months to ensure school is aware of absences and transportation plan is made."
- "Encourage your child to take ownership of their RYL experience. This is a great opportunity for them to practice managing communication regarding absences or questions they may have."
- Have your child create their LinkedIn Account so that they can immediately connect with volunteers and speakers. They may find that they want to learn more about career opportunities presented."