The 40th Annual SLS Conference is coming. Learn more →
Donate

40th Annual SLS High School Conference

Students Leading Students from across Michigan gather for three days of leadership training, peer-led workshops, and statewide networking, with an optional pre-conference day for advisors and new chapters.

March 5–7, 2027 · Bay City, MI

40th Annual SLS High School Conference

From the Student Advisory Board

Each spring, hundreds of students and advisors from SLS and STAND chapters across Michigan come together in Bay City for the SLS High School Conference — the highlight of the SLS year. Students lead workshops for their peers, build their skills in prevention and leadership, and carry new energy back to their schools.

What to expect

  • Peer-led workshops on substance use, mental health, healthy relationships, safe driving, and more

  • Keynote sessions and leadership training for student leaders and chapter advisors

  • A statewide network of chapters sharing what is working in their schools

  • An optional pre-conference day on March 5, 2027, for advisors and new chapters

The Student Advisory Board

Established in 1986, the Student Advisory Board (SAB) is the trained student face and voice of SLS. SAB members train SLS chapters to replicate proven peer-led strategies using SLS validated standards, building the executive functioning skills that prepare students for their futures. They focus on the issues students most want to influence in their own schools and across Michigan, and they develop and lead the conferences, assemblies, and workshops that bring chapters together. With their award-winning skills, the SAB sets the vision for SLS chapters statewide.

Conference traditions

The conference is as much celebration as it is training. Returning chapters look forward to the traditions that make it the highlight of the SLS year:

  • The "Big" Dance

  • SLS The Musical

  • The Door Decoration Contest

  • Happy and Perky, the SLS mascots

  • Awards and celebrations recognizing standout students, advisors, and chapters

  • The all-conference group photo

Event Details

Date March 5, 2027 – March 7, 2027
Location Bay City, MI

Support the Conference

Sponsor this year's Conference and connect with schools, families, and communities across Michigan.

Sponsorship Info

SLS Awards

Each year's chapter, advisor, student, and partner awards are presented at the Conference.

About the Awards

Speakers & Entertainment

Lawrence C. Harris

Lawrence C. Harris

Youth Empowerment Speaker and Author

Lawrence helps teens and young adults build self-worth, make healthier decisions, and create a clear vision for their future. Through his personal story and practical strategies, he teaches young people how to think differently, handle challenges without overthinking, and take steps toward the life they want.

Joel Tacey

Joel Tacey

Tiptop Entertainment

Get ready for mind-blowing magic, nonstop laughs, and an epic celebration! Joel Tacey of Tiptop Entertainment is bringing the energy to the SLS Conference with jaw-dropping magic, surprise birthday games, and plenty of dancing. Come ready to laugh, celebrate SLS’s 40th Birthday Conference, and show off your moves on the dance floor!

Workshops

Led by students, for students. More workshops are added as they are confirmed.

Learning to Deal With You!

Stress, big emotions, awkward moments: we all deal with them. In this fun, welcoming workshop, you’ll discover coping strategies that actually fit you and learn how to feel more in control socially and emotionally.

Presented by Mackenzie Burns, SAB, Clarenceville High School

Peek-A-You

Ready to get to know the real you? Through interactive activities, you’ll explore who you are, who you want to become, and how to turn your goals into a plan you can actually follow.

Presented by Kaley Long, SAB, Taylor High School

We Want You!

In this session you’ll learn what it means to serve on the SAB board, discover your strengths, and get hands-on guidance on how to throw your name into the ring with confidence. Whether you’re a big idea person, a behind-the-scenes builder, or a community connector, there’s a role for you.

Confidence Is a Skill, Not a Personality!

Think confidence is something you’re either born with or not? Think again! This interactive workshop will help you feel more comfortable in social situations, connect with others, and practice the habits that make you approachable, confident, and respected.

Presented by Myah Randolph, SAB, Brighton High School

Brainrot: How to Rebuild Your Attention Span

Have you found that hours of scrolling have made it feel impossible to get things done, focus on your homework, or eat without a YouTube video playing? This workshop will help you rebuild your attention span, become more mindful, and experience life in the moment instead of scrolling your life away.

Presented by Lawrence C. Harris, Youth Empowerment Speaker

Conference Costs

Price includes conference registration, one night’s lodging (Saturday) and four meals, and is based on the number of people sharing a room.

$267 Quad room per person
$277 Triple room per person
$299 Double room per person
$365 Single room per person, adults only
$125 Early arrival room per room, for pre-conference activities
$235 Day attendee, no overnight stay per person, registration and 4 meals

Agenda and registration coming soon!

Questions about this event?

Get in touch and we'll help with registration, sponsorship, or any other questions.