Prince George’s County Public Schools (PGCPS), in partnership with The Grimes Firm, local and state elected
officials, and non-profit leaders, is offering a leadership development program for students focused on social
justice. The program will immerse 50 high school students in analysis of historical social justice movements,
evaluation of current County conditions and a series of developmental learning sessions to build advocacy
and change leadership skills. The partnership will culminate with a week-long residential program combining
elements of leadership development, retreat planning and community building.
GOAL
The Social Justice Academy will develop high-impact student leaders by empowering them with the leadership
skills and tools they need to execute transformative civic engagement, while also building their self-esteem
and tenacity.
PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS
• Social Justice Academy sessions will take place two Saturdays each month from 10 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.
and will include a weeklong summer experience that builds on students’ skills and learning.
• Students will take part in a customized curriculum that examines social justice movements, builds
knowledge of county systems and operations, and develops skills that support effective change leadership.
• Students will assess their own leadership skills to identify areas of proficiency and growth and create their
own Leadership Development Plan.
• Students will engage with program staff and County mentors to reflect on their life experiences and gain
new insights.
• Students will develop a Draft Social Justice Action Plan detailing their recommendations for social impact
change in Prince George’s County.
APPLICATION PROCESS
Interested students must complete a pre-assessment survey and register online. Fifty applicants will be selected
through a competitive review by the Academy Advisory Board. Online applications will be accepted from
March 10 through March 24, 2021. Acceptance notifications will be sent out March 25-28.
MORE INFORMATION
For more information, visit the PGCPS webpage at www.pgcps.org.
To apply online go to:
Social Justice Academy Application
