The City of Sunrise is excited to welcome the Sunrise Leadership Academy (SLA) Class of 2026 (our 17th program year)! For the incoming class we are proud to open applications to juniors and seniors attending Broward County Public Schools (20 spots available).

The Sunrise Leadership Academy (SLA), launched in 2009, has been all about giving Sunrise high school juniors and seniors a real hands-on experience with how our community works. Through the program, the city helps teens explore ways they can get involved – from employment to activism. The goal is simple: to inspire and empower the next generation of leaders who really care about making a difference in their community.

The application deadline is Wednesday, October 8, 2025 at 10:30 am. For the SLA application, please email  SDiaz@sunrisefl.gov.  

To participate Sunrise high school juniors and seniors must meet the following criteria:

• SLA application/approval from BCPS Principal, VP, or BRACE Advisor (since it is an off-campus field trip)
• 3.2 + unweighted GPA;
• Interest in government/community impact;
• 10+ volunteer hours; and
• Demonstrated leadership through extracurricular involvement

 SLA 2026 Session Dates/Time: 10/22, 10/23, 10/29, 11/5, 11/20 | 7:30 a.m.– 3:00 p.m.

City staff curate the SLA’s core curriculum, complemented by community guest speakers who share expertise on key topics. Together, they explore career readiness, entrepreneurship, personal branding, bullying prevention, and resource conservation - with a strong emphasis on teamwork, ethics, and leadership development. The city provides breakfast, lunch, snacks, and all necessary supplies. Additionally, students complete an in-house service-learning project (earning 25–30 hours) and receive a graduation certificate and letter of recommendation upon successful completion.

In recent years, the SLA service learning project completed by teens in collaboration with local businesses/non-profits/schools include:

• Development of a Little Free Library network in Sunrise 
• Implementation of an Urban Gardening initiative
• Creation of a “Kids’ Guide to Sunrise” written and illustrated by students
• Launch of a Cyber-Seniors mentoring program with the Sunrise Senior Center

The SLA program is a recipient of the Florida League of Cities’ Florida Citizenship Award and the Broward League of Cities’ Community Spirit Award. However, the SLA’s greatest achievement is its positive and lasting impact on students. Program alumni remain in contact with the SLA facilitators – often requesting letters of reference, resume help, and networking opportunities.

For more information contact Sady Diaz, Public Engagement Manager –  SDiaz@sunrisefl.gov or 954.747.4662.