39th Annual SLS High School Conference
March 14-15, 2026
(Pre-Conference March 13, 2026)
Shanty Creek Resort
Who should attend? All high school student leaders, SLS chapter members, and advisors who want to strengthen their leadership skills with dynamic speakers, interactive workshops, health education and safety programs to challenge and inspire in this 100% student-led conference!
Workshops-Conference 2026
Interested in presenting? Email dmf@SLStoday.org to request Workshop Proposal Form (if slots are available)
Conference 2026 Speakers and Entertainment
SLS Student Advisory Board
Established in 1986, the Student Advisory Board (SAB) are highly trained to be the student face and voice of the SLS organization. The SAB trains SLS Chapters to replicate proven effective peer-led strategies using SLS validated standards. This process elevates studentsā success with
Executive Functioning Skills that prepare them for their future.Ā SAB focus on student issues that they and their peers want to influence in their schools and the State of Michigan. SAB, with their award-winning skills, creates a Vision for SLS Chapters.
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Jesse Cole is an author, leadership & empowerment coach, and
acclaimed speaker. A former college basketball player turned
educator, he is best known for his ability to weave together practical stories with transformational principles.
He is the author of 6 books, including his most recent release, Young, Hungry, Ambitious: Imagine What Could Happen If You Decided to Be the Leader You Were Created to Be.
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Allie Seibert ā Historian & True Crime Writer
Join us for a captivating session with Allie Seibert, former Michigan educator turned historian and acclaimed historical true crime writer. Allie specializes in uncovering Michigan stories lost to time from unsolved mysteries to overlooked moments that shaped our stateās legacy.
With a teacherās heart and a detectiveās curiosity, Allie brings history to life through gripping narratives, unexpected twists, and deep dives into the people and places behind Michiganās most haunting tales.
Sergeant Kendall Kretzschmer has dedicated eighteen years to serving the Livingston County Sheriffās Office. In his current role, he leads the Community Outreach Unit and oversees the School Resource Officers, working at the intersection of public safety and youth engagement. His mission is rooted in building trust, strengthening community relationships, and empowering young people to make informed, responsible choices. Through educational policing and open dialogue, Sergeant Kretzschmer strives to create safer environments and inspire positive decisionāmaking across the county.
āThe Game With No Winnersā
Sgt. K will break down the hard truth about impaired driving ā not the myths, not the excuses, and definitely not the versions teens hear from friends or social media. Heāll explain why driving drunk or high isnāt just risky but lifeāaltering, and how the idea that āit wonāt happen to meā is one of the most dangerous beliefs out there.
Through real stories, clear facts, and straight talk, Sgt. K will show why impaired driving is a game where no one walks away a winner.
When Students Lead: The Power of Peer PreventionĀ
Jeanine Kaltz and Jenn Pavlak, Preventionists with Hope Shores Alliance in Northeast Michigan, will share how students can strengthen their leadership skills and make their schools safer through Mentors in Violence Prevention (MVP),a nationally recognized, peer-led program that empowers young people to be active bystanders who prevent bullying, harassment, and relationship violence.Ā
SLS Award Nominations Open!
CONFERENCE COSTS
REGISTRATION MATERIALS 2026
Memories of Conference 2025
Congratulations SLS Award Winners 2025
- Student of the Year:
Kalee Knickerbocker, Atherton HS - Advisor of the Year:Ā Ā Ā Ā
Susan DeWolf, ClarencevilleĀ - Chapter of the Year:
Atherton HS - Most Improved Chapter: Hillman HS
Apply to the Student Advisory Board (SAB)
Established in 1986, we train each passionate group of emerging leaders to lead and teach their peers and younger students. They work with our team and member schools to promote youth involvement, networking and stakeholder partnerships. The Student Advisory Board (SAB) develops and leads conferences, assemblies and workshops. These students are dedicated to creating healthy, safe and inclusive schools and communities across Michigan and we are proud to help them do this important work!
Ā Applications for 2026-2027 will open in March 2026.Ā
Applications for the 2025-2026 SAB are closed.
Questions email Dawn at dmf@SLStoday.orgĀ