2026-27 IDSA Student Leadership Workshop
IDSA’s Student Leadership Workshop is an opportunity for student leaders from across the state of Illinois to assemble and collaboratively develop leadership skills that will take their activities to the next level.
The workshop focuses on skills related to team-building, communication, learning through experience and evaluation, engaging more students, utilizing an individual’s strengths, risk-taking, and getting involved in a positive way!
SAVE THE DATE!!!
The 2026-27 IDSA Student Leadership will take place on Monday, November 9th, at Maine West High School.
Here is a link to the 2024-25 participating school group photos.
IDSA Student Leadership Workshop
Maine West High School
1755 South Wolf Road, Des Plaines, IL 60018
Schedule of Events
| Time | Event |
|---|---|
| 8:15 – 9:00 AM | Registration & Check-InFieldhouse Lobby |
| 9:00 – 9:30 AM | Opening: Rally and Energize! (Glow Pep Rally)Auditorium |
| 9:30 – 10:15 AM | Keynote Address: Dr. Laura RizoAuditorium |
| 10:25 – 10:55 AM | Session 1Rotating breakouts by group |
| 11:00 – 11:30 AM | Session 2Rotating breakouts by group |
| 11:30 AM – 12:15 PM | Lunch (pizza and snacks provided)Cafeteria |
| 12:20 – 12:50 PM | Session 3Rotating breakouts by group |
| 12:55 – 1:25 PM | Session 4Rotating breakouts by group |
| 1:25 – 2:00 PM | Closing: Pep Rally GamesSpectator Gym |
Breakout sessions include: Idea Exchange, ChatIDSA: 20-60-20, Give More Than You Ask / Leading Without Titles, Bring the Hype to Your Student Section, Digital Leadership & Social Media, Resilience, and a Featured Speaker session with Joe Bush.
What’s Included?
Students will rotate through a high-energy schedule designed to keep them engaged and inspired:
- Dr. Laura Rizo, Keynote Speaker: Insights from a premier leadership expert.
- Breakout Sessions: Focused workshops on specific leadership skills.
- Idea Exchanges: Collaborate and brainstorm with peers from across Illinois.
- Pep Rally & Games: Learn new ways to boost school spirit.
- Lunch: Pizza and snacks included with every registration.
Advisor Opportunities
Advisors don’t just supervise, they grow too!
- Advisor-Only Session: Network and collaborate with the IDSA Executive Board and fellow Illinois educators.
- Cost: Up to 2 advisors per school attend for free. Additional advisors/sponsors may attend at the standard student rate.
Registration Details
- Capacity: Limited to 600 students total. (We typically sell out, so register ASAP!)
- School Limit: Maximum of 20 students per school.
- Refund Policy: No refunds for cancellations.
- Substitutions: If you need to swap a student attendee, please contact Ashleigh Malec.
Media Notice
IDSA will be capturing the day’s highlights! Photos and videos will be shared on our social media @idsa.leads.