When the word “leadership” comes to mind it is usually accompanied by ideas of large groups of people, teamwork, and high fives however the 2021 Junior Leadership Washington County was forced to think outside that box. 

            Due to the continued restrictions of the Covid-19 pandemic, Junior Leadership Washington County took on a hybrid approach with most days involving youth joining via Zoom from home. Lessons were designed to challenge the 7^th grade youth to develop their personal leadership style and skill independently through industry speakers, discussions, and kits that were packaged and distributed before the meeting date. By the final meeting, health restrictions had lifted which would allow our youth to meet together to showcase their growth and put their skills to the test. 

            The 2021 Junior Leadership Washington County class consisted of 20 youth from all three middle schools in Washington County. One member reported, “In the future I’ll use a lot of this. For example, some of the communication information was good because I misunderstand people a lot.” Another said, “I had a lot of fun but I know it was helpful because I try to look at things from other people’s perspective more now.”