Ready, Set, Learn! The Future Leaders Program is Back in Session

September 12, 2024 – Nearly 140 Future Leaders kicked off the 2024-25 school year on Saturday, August 31, on the campus of the Episcopal School of Dallas (ESD). 

Founded in 2001 by the Brewer Foundation, the Future Leaders Program (FLP) is an academic and leadership development program for select Dallas Independent School District students. Through year-round academic courses, leadership training, and exposure to a wide array of cultural programs, the FLP helps prepare its “future leaders” for success in college and beyond.

On their first day, students made introductions, shared experiences, and connected with their peers. Following this, FLP Director Rosie De La Garza spoke to students about the structure and goals of the program.

Students were divided by grade level – to facilitate the delivery of a customized curriculum. The youngest students focused on Humanities education, 8th graders engaged in mock trial preparation, 9th graders studied Geometry, 10th graders began PSAT preparation, 11th graders talked about their upcoming transition to senior year and the college application process, and seniors focused on college counseling.

The senior class also had an alumni speaker, Raul Lopez. Lopez graduated from the FLP in 2023 and now attends Northwestern University. Students enjoyed engaging with Lopez on how FLP prepared him for success at a prestigious university.

Prior to the first day of class, the FLP hosted a “Pastries with Parents” event at the Yvonne A. Ewell Townview Center. The event was an opportunity to discuss the program's expectations for its student participants and the schedule for this academic year.

“For every FLP student, this promises to be another exciting year of academic progress and personal growth,” says Ms. De La Garza. “There is something special about the start of a new year – with students and faculty brimming with hope and promise.”