E/LEAD

E/LEAD students will be enrolled in LEADvisory as their advisory assignment. In this course, students will explore two key questions: What is identity? and What does it mean to be a leader? Through a combination of readings, discussions, reflective writing, field trips, and projects, students will engage with concepts of identity development and multiple models of leadership.

LEADvisors loop with their students from 9th through 12th grade, providing continuity, guidance, and support. During Grades 9 and 10, elements from Freshman Advisory Study Hall (FASH) and Sophomore Advisory Study Hall (SASH) are integrated into LEADvisory to ensure students receive foundational support while developing leadership skills. Over the course of four years, students will build a leadership portfolio that documents their growth, reflections, and accomplishments. This portfolio serves as the foundation for their senior capstone project, which is completed within the Advisory course and represents a culminating demonstration of learning, growth, and leadership.

E/LEAD students will take select core curriculum courses together as a cohort, such as Humanities and Physical Education. This model is designed to create a close-knit learning community within the larger school, where students can build meaningful relationships with peers who share similar goals and interests. By learning together over multiple years, students develop collaboration skills, peer accountability, and a sense of belonging that supports both academic success and personal growth.

E/LEAD students will participate in a variety of hands-on experiences designed to challenge, inspire, and expand their understanding of leadership. This includes retreats, field trips, community service projects, and learning treks that encourage students to explore their interests, discover new passions, and apply leadership skills in real-world settings. Through these experiences, students practice problem-solving, collaboration, and reflection in diverse settings.

Note: All E/LEAD travel and retreat experiences are integral parts of the program and are provided free of charge to families.

E/LEAD students engage in a variety of co- and extra-curricular opportunities designed to prepare them for life after ETHS. Connections with the Trade Collective, Ubuntu Leadership Institute, and ETHS Distinguished Alumni provide students with exposure to leadership in action and post-high school possibilities.

The E/LEAD program seeks to provide experiences that allow students to explore interests, develop leadership skills, and connect with mentors while gaining real-world exposure. Opportunities include:

• Field trips to explore careers, colleges, and leadership in action

• Internships or work-based experiences

• Pre-collegiate programs and enrichment activities

• Mentoring from teachers, community members, and alumni

These experiences complement academic learning and LEADvisory, helping students build skills, confidence, and a clearer vision for their future.

ETHS students have the potential to lead in many areas, both in and beyond the classroom. Some students may not yet see themselves as leaders, while others already do. E/LEAD is designed to provide a high school experience that supports students who have been underrepresented or under-engaged in leadership spaces. The program helps students connect academically and socially, develop a leadership identity, and explore core themes and frameworks of leadership and identity development. Students will have opportunities to put these concepts into action and experiment with leadership in ways that reflect who they are becoming. As our mission states, E/LEAD aims “to empower students to develop their unique leadership identities and potential as impactful leaders who inspire positive change within their communities.”

Yes! Students in E/LEAD are part of a cohort in Humanities, PE/Wellness, and LEADvisory Seminar. Students will still have choices in Mathematics, World Languages, and Arts electives.

The E/LEAD application will open in December for incoming freshmen. Eligible students who complete the application will be invited to sign up for an interview with the selection committee. Students will also receive instructions for the next steps, including preparing a brief presentation about a middle school project or accomplishment and providing a recommendation from a teacher or community member.

All application materials must be submitted by the deadline, and interviews will be scheduled at D65 and other middle schools. Selection decisions will be shared in mid-January.