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We recommend student register online in order to expedite the application process.

Online Registration:

• Online registration MUST be completed by a Parent/Guardian.
• Go to www.lead-america.org and click on the "Apply Online" button and follow the instructions for online registration.
• You will need your Personal Invitation Number (PIN) located on your invitation letter. Please keep this PIN number in a secure place, as you will need the number to access post-registration materials on our website.  
• Once you have completed the online registration process you will receive an email from our Admissions Office confirming your registration and payment information. (To ensure receipt of this and future emails, please add "lead-america.org" to the domain safe list on any email account(s) that you and your child will use.)

1. Complete 2008 Enrollment Application.
Enrollment Application
Please write legibly. Both the Student and Parent/Guardian must sign the application, and include tuition payment (deposit or full tuition payment). The initial deposit is credited in full toward the tuition. Incomplete applications will not be processed. You may register online or submit applications by fax or mail to the LeadAmerica Admission Office.

Mail:
LeadAmerica
Admissions Office
1515 S. Federal Highway, Suite 301
Boca Raton, FL 33432

Fax:
(561) 368-8151
(If you fax the application, do not mail the original)

2. Select your payment method from page 6 (of the enrollment application). Be sure to include tuition payment (deposit or full tuition). Payments by non-U.S. participants must be made by credit card, money order in U.S. dollars, or by check drawn on a U.S. bank.

3. Keep a copy of the Application (front and back) for your records.

Questions:

Call our Admissions Office toll free at: (866) FYI-LEAD (394-5323) or (561) 368-8085

Email us at: info@lead-america.org

Visit our website at: www.lead-america.org

PRE-CONFERENCE HANDBOOK
After you are registered, you will receive an email with a link to access your Pre-Conference Handbook online using your PIN number. You also will receive the Pre-Conference Handbook via U.S. mail. The Handbook contains complete information on how to prepare for your conference. Please review this carefully as it answers most conference related questions.

MEDICAL INSURANCE
Students MUST have health insurance in order to participate in a LeadAmerica Conference. Proof of health insurance is required. For students who do not have medical insurance, short-term insurance is available through the Payment Protection Plan.

FUNDRAISING & SCHOLARSHIP OPPORTUNITIES
Fundraising is a great leadership activity and opportunity to get involved in your community. A large percentage of our students engage in fundraising activities to meet their tuition and transportation needs. The LeadAmerica Fundraising Guide provides detailed information on how students can raise funds toward tuition, including a list of fundraising opportunities, types of organizations that have sponsored LeadAmerica students in the past, and a sample fundraising letter.

Limited merit based (named) scholarships are also available.

Limited financial aid is available to students with demonstrated financial need. If you desire financial aid you must request it by submitting the Financial Aid Application with your Enrollment Application.

Financial Aid Applications will not be considered after a student has registered. Merit based scholarships have designated due dates.

ENROLLMENT & SELECTION PROCESS
Admission to LeadAmerica conferences is selective. LeadAmerica seeks outstanding high school students from across the United States and internationally who have demonstrated leadership potential, academic promise and will contribute to the quality and diversity of the Conference. There are several ways students are selected: Student Talent Identification Programs & Surveys, Educator Nominations, Alumni Nominations, and Clubs & Activities. Students who are not pre-selected may apply through the Merit Application process (see below).

• Student Talent Identification Programs and Surveys: National Student Talent Identification Programs and Surveys and listings identify students based on theiracademic achievements, school and extracurricular activities and future ambitions. Qualified students are pre-approved for admission and receive an invitation to enroll in a LeadAmerica session of their choice.
• Educator Nominations: High Schools from across the United States and 51 countries internationally participate in our Educator Nomination Program. Teachers, guidance counselors and school administrators who participate submit nominations of students who meet LeadAmerica's admissions requirements: scholastic achievement, involvement in community or extra-curricular activities and leadership potential. Nominated students are pre-approved for admission and receive an invitation to enroll in the LeadAmerica session of their choice.
• Alumni Nominations: LeadAmerica Alumni may submit nominations of outstanding students based on the same criteria as educator nominations. These students are pre-approved for admission and receive an invitation to enroll in the LeadAmerica session of their choice.
• Clubs & Activities: Invitations are also sent to students who participate in certain clubs or activities (e.g. Academic Honor Societies, Mock Trial, Debate, Model UN, Boy Scouts, Girls Scouts, Student Government, Athletics, etc.)
  
• Merit Applications: Students with a minimum "B" average, a record of involvement in community and extra-curricular activities, or demonstrated leadership potential may apply directly to LeadAmerica. A written recommendation from a teacher or counselor is also required.

CSLC and Ambassador Abroad: are accredited for two (2) college credits. One (1) college credit (normally $440) is included in the program tuition. A second college credit is available at a reduced tuition cost of $249 (no additional academic work is required after the program).

Leadership University: is accredited for one (1) college credit. That credit is optional and not included in the tuition and is available at the reduced cost of $249.

CSLC, Ambassadors Abroad & Leadership University college credit is issued by Loras College, www.loras.edu, a fully accredited liberal arts college. Credit is issued on a pass/fail basis and its transferability is dependent upon the policies and discretion of the college to be attended. College credit is earned by successful completion of and participation in all aspects of the program. College credit may be denied at LeadAmerica’s discretion for failure to participate fully in all aspects of the program. There are no refunds for denial of college credit or for students who are dismissed from the program.

Washington Summer Scholars: is accredited for three (3) college credits. The cost of these three credits (normally $2,574) is included in the program tuition. Credit is issued by American University, a fully accredited University. The course is graded on an A-F basis by American University Faculty.

College Credit is earned by successful completion of and participation in all aspects of the program. College Credit may be denied at LeadAmerica's discretion for failure to participate fully in all aspects of the program. There are no refunds for denial of college credit.

TRANSPORTATION

Ambassadors Abroad:
Tuition includes roundtrip airfare from the designated U.S. departure airport to the Ambassadors Abroad country and all transportation within the foreign country. Students are responsible for their airfare or transportation costs to and from the domestic departure city. Ambassadors Abroad attendees are responsible for the cost of obtaining a valid passport and VISA (if required).

SUPERVISION
The safety and supervision of our students is of paramount importance. Students are carefully supervised throughout the program by LeadAmerica faculty and staff. Resident Advisors and administrative staff reside on-site and are available to students at any time. Students are not permitted to leave campus on their own. Transportation during the program is by air-conditioned chartered motor coach. During certain field trips and off-site activities students may have limited supervision. This means students have freedom to visit specific sites within designated areas without direct supervision utilizing designated check-in and check-out procedures (e.g. - Capitol Hill visits, Faneuil Hall, Miracle Mile, etc.). Washington Summer Scholars will also use the DC Metro for certain off-site activities.

FACULTY & STAFF

TEACHING FACULTY
LeadAmerica faculty includes university and graduate school professors, practicing professionals and leaders in the fields of study. They are carefully selected to ensure that our students receive the highest quality educational experience. Their role is to bring the core curriculum to life and stimulate thinking and discussion.
 

TEAM LEADERS
Our Team Leaders are assigned to groups of approximately 12-18 students and facilitate simulations, discussions and other practical experiences and serve as chaperones for off-site activities and non-academic events. They inspire our students and serve as positive role models. Team Leaders and Faculty Advisors are adult professionals and college and graduate level students from leading colleges and universities including Harvard, MIT, Cornell, Columbia, Boston University, Johns Hopkins, Loyola, UCLA, University of Chicago, The Citadel and VMI. Most have academic and/or work experience in the field of study and many are pursuing degrees in education and have peer counseling, tutorial and leadership experience. In addition to their own experience, Team Leaders and Faculty Advisors receive approximately 40 hours of LeadAmerica training.
 
RESIDENT ADVISORS
Team Leaders and staff serve as Resident Advisors. They live in the residence halls and are available to our students at any time, day or night.
 
ADMINISTRATIVE STAFF

• The Program Director oversees day-to-day operations of the program and ensures the quality and integrity of the academic experience.
• The Site Director is responsible for student safety and facilities.
• Office and other Administrative Staff are always on site and work with our Faculty, Team Leaders and students.

TERMS & CONDITIONS OF PARTICIPATION

TUITION & PAYMENT TERMS

Please refer to the Application and Enrollment & Other Details included in your invitation package or the Tuition & Payment Terms section of the online application.

• Students enrolling in more than one program must submit a deposit for each program.
• Cancelled/returned checks will be subject to a $25 non-sufficient funds fee.
• Students electing the Tuition & Travel Insurance for more than one program must submit a Premium for each program.
• Payments not made by the due date will be subject to a $25 administrative fee.
• Students declining Optional Tuition & Travel Insurance should pay full tuition or deposit amount only.

OPTIONAL TUITION & TRAVEL INSURANCE
Tuition & Travel insurance safeguards the Student's tuition and other covered expenses while traveling, provided the student cancels for a covered reason as set forth in the Description of Coverage. Students who cancel for covered reasons will be reimbursed under the plan for the non-refundable tuition paid (refundable tuition reimbursed by LeadAmerica) and airfare cancellation charges associated with the program. The Plan also includes coverage for Medical Protection, Baggage Protection, Trip Interruption and Delay and Emergency Assistance Services. For complete Plan details and Description Coverage please visit our website at www.lead-america.org/conferences/travelprotection or call the Plan Administrator, BerkelyCare at 1-800-453-4067, Mon - Fri 9:00am - 5:00pm (EST) ), referencing policy HTP05224. The Premiums are: $99 for 6-day or 10-day, $159 for Washington Summer Scholars, and Ambassadors Abroad. Plan Premiums are not refundable. Should you choose not to participate in the above-described Tuition & Travel Insurance, or cancellation is not for a covered reason (a qualifying event) in the Plan, LeadAmerica's Cancellation & Refund Policy will apply.

CANCELLATION & REFUND POLICY
Because the operation of LeadAmerica programs requires extensive advanced planning, costs are incurred long before the start of the conference. Accordingly the following Cancellation & Refund Policy will apply.

Spring Conferences: For cancellations prior to and including February 15, 2008 there is a cancellation fee of $500; after February 15, 2008 there are no refunds.

U.S. Summer Conferences: For cancellations prior to and including April 1, 2008 there is a cancellation fee of $350; after April 1, 2008 and prior to May 15, 2008 there is a cancellation fee of $500; after May 15, 2008 there are no refunds.

Ambassadors Abroad Conferences: For cancellations prior to and including April 1, 2008 there is a cancellation fee of $750; after April 1, 2008 and prior to and including May 1, 2008 there is a cancellation fee of 40% of total tuition; after May 1, 2008 there are no refunds.

• Any cancellation and refund request must be submitted either through the LeadAmerica website (requires PIN) or by written notice to the Admissions Office in Boca Raton, Florida received by email, fax, U.S. Postal Service, or overnight delivery signed by the Parent/Guardian who signed the enrollment application. Additionally, if you have the Payment Protection Plan you must also immediately notify the Plan Administrator at BerkelyCare of your cancellation.
• Optional Payment Protection Plan premiums are non-refundable.
• Tuition payments will be refunded in full in the event the Student's application is not accepted or if space is not available in the selected program.
• In the event that LeadAmerica cancels a program, all tuition will be refunded. LeadAmerica shall not be responsible for any expenses incurred by student other than tuition paid.
• There is a $50 administrative fee if the Student transfers to another LeadAmerica session or program after enrollment. Transfers within 60 days of the start date of the session the student is registered to attend will be subject to other terms and conditions.
• Students who are dismissed from the program for disciplinary reasons or leave the program early for any reason are not eligible for a refund. Parents are responsible for any expenses incurred for housing or transportation after dismissal.

POSTPONEMENT OR CANCELLATION OF PROGRAM
LeadAmerica reserves the right to modify, postpone or cancel a program because of safety, health or other issues including, but not limited to Acts of God, acts or omissions of government authority, compliance with government regulations or any other cause or event beyond the control of LeadAmerica. In the event that LeadAmerica postpones the program, tuition payments received prior to the postponement will be applied to the new program dates. If a student/parent elects to cancel enrollment in a postponed program, tuition will be refunded less a $350 non-refundable fee. Any cancellation and/or request for refund must be submitted in writing according to the Cancellation and Refund Policy Schedule. In the event that LeadAmerica cancels a program, all tuition paid will be refunded.

STUDENTS WITH SPECIAL NEEDS
LeadAmerica encourages participation by physically challenged students. Wheelchair-equipped vehicles may be available for those with limited mobility. Additionally, certain designated sessions will be interpreted for the deaf and hard of hearing. Parents are encouraged to call LeadAmerica for more information and to discuss particular needs before they apply.

WAIT LIST
Applications from qualified students are processed in the order of receipt and may exceed spaces available. This is an application for participation and enrollment is contingent upon final approval by LeadAmerica, with whom sole discretion resides. If the Student's first choice is filled, the Student will be placed in his/her second choice of session. If the Student does not have a second choice, the Student will be placed on a wait list. Student's tuition will not be processed until such time as they are enrolled in a conference.

CODE OF CONDUCT
The Student and Parent understand that participation in LeadAmerica demands the highest standards of conduct and personal responsibility. The Student agrees not to use or possess tobacco, alcohol, controlled substances without prescription, weapons or firearms of any kind during the program. Additionally, the Student agrees to abide by all LeadAmerica rules and standards of conduct throughout the program. Further, the Student and Parent understand that LeadAmerica follows a zero tolerance policy. Infraction of any rule or standard of conduct may result in immediate dismissal, forfeiture of tuition and any other fees paid, loss of college credit (and related fee) and return home at the Student/Parent’s sole expense. Dismissed students are not permitted to remain on campus or with the program and parents are responsible for any expenses incurred for housing or transportation after dismissal. The comprehensive LeadAmerica Student Code of Conduct is available at www.lead-america.org/documents and is incorporated herein by reference.

ON CAMPUS HOUSING
LeadAmerica and/or Conference Facility/University personnel (LeadAmerica) may enter a Student’s room, without permission, for emergency purposes, for maintenance and housekeeping purposes, for fire and safety inspections, to inspect for damage, or if LeadAmerica has any reason to believe that a violation of a LeadAmerica rule, Conference facility rule, regulation, local ordinance, state or federal law or statute has occurred. General room inspections may be conducted periodically without prior notice. Students are responsible for maintaining their rooms in a clean manner. The Student will be charged for damages to, unauthorized use of, or alterations to rooms, furnishings, appliances, equipment or locks (the “Room”) and for any special cleaning necessitated by improper care of the Room. All Students occupying a room jointly and severally are responsible for any and all damage and/or cleaning charges associated with that Room as well as public areas. In the event that damages or theft of University and/or Conference Facility property cannot be assigned to specific individuals the charges will be divided equally among the residents of the room, suite, floor or building at LeadAmerica’s discretion. Additionally, students will be billed for any meal cards, access cards, or keys not returned at the checkout equal to the fee billed to LeadAmerica by the conference facility.