RYL > Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible to participate?
Sophomores who have leadership potential, are well rounded, enjoy community service and are a B student or better and receive approval from their school may apply. Please check with your school's RYL administrator for approval procedures. If you are not sure who the appropriate contact at your school is, please email our office.
How do I apply?
Please complete the application online and print; obtain parent/guardian approval and submit to your school's RYL administrator.
Who is my school's RYL administrator?
Normally, but not always, the RYL program is administered through the school's guidance counselor. Our office can provide you with the appropriate contact person for your school Please email us for more information.
How are the participants selected?
The RYL Steering Committee, comprised of local area business leaders, review all submitted applications. Applicants from each school are selected based on community service, school activities, essay answers, and diversity.
When are the applications due?
The application deadline is March and listed on the application.
When will I be notified of selection?
ALL applicants and schools will be notified within four weeks after the application deadline - normally in April. Notification date is listed on the application.
What is the cost?
There is no cost to the participating student or the school. The program is funded through generous sponsors and volunteers.
When are the sessions?
The sessions are held once a month, September to March. They are held during the school day 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. unless otherwise noted. The dates, times, locations and descriptions are listed on the session schedule.
Where are the sessions?
See the session schedule.
What will we do at the sessions?
The sessions are very interactive and involve role-playing, presentations,s imulations and exercises covering such topics as diversity, law, criminal justice, government, money, health, economic development, arts and human services. You will also have the chance to meet and work toegether with a diverse group of students.
Is transportation provided?
Students are required to provide their own transportation to and from the session sites. They may drive, have their parents drop off and pick up, or car pool with another student. Transportation is provided to the retreat and during sessions where tours are planned within the day.
Do I need to attend every session?
Development of a successful leadership class takes time and commitment. Participants must be present for the experience and for their input. RYL attendance is closely monitored and is credited towards graduation. Participants are strongly encouraged to attend every session. Two unexcused absences result in immediate termination and not graduating from the program.
There may be times when students must miss for a school function, exam, or other commitment. It is the student's responsibility to inform RYL representatives of their excused absence. If you do not attend a session and we have not been notified, we will contact your school.
PLEASE NOTE, IT IS VERY IMPORTANT AND MANDATORY THAT YOU ATTEND THE RETREAT.
What is the dress code?
Attire for most sessions is business casual – no jeans or inappropriate t-shirts, please. However, if the session requires something more casual or more formal, you will be notified before the session. It is also a good idea to call the office the day before of the day of your session to remind them of your abscence.
Will the school excuse my absence for attending RYL?
Your principal must approve your application and is made aware at that time of your absence for the sessions. In addition, your school will be sent an email reminder notice about a week before each session. It is your responsibility to remind your teachers and retrieve any missed assignments.
Will you cancel a session due to inclement weather?
We will only cancel if absolutely necessary. If we must cancel, there will be a voice message on the office phone (859) 578-6398 and attempt to post the cancellation with the other closures listed on the TV stations.
How can I update my contact information?
You can update your information on the Update My Information screen once you have logged in.
How do I find contact information for my classmates?
You can find basic information on your class using the Student Directory Search. If you need detailed information, login is required.
What is my username and password and how can I change it?
To obtain information on your username and password, please email our office.