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Parent Guide to SCLA Benefits



A clear overview for parents and guardians explaining what the Scholar Career & Leadership Association (SCLA) is, how students participate, and how SCLA supports leadership development, academic growth, and college and career readiness.

What This Guide Covers

This guide is designed to help parents understand:

  • What the SCLA is and how it works

  • What students gain from participation

  • How leadership activities are tracked and verified

  • How SCLA supports college and career readiness

  • How parents can support their student’s involvement

What Is the SCLA? (Parent Overview)

The Scholar Career & Leadership Association (SCLA) is a national student organization that helps students develop leadership skills, participate in service and enrichment activities, and receive formal recognition for their efforts.

SCLA works in partnership with schools and educators to provide a structured, credible framework for leadership development. Participation is guided by advisors and aligned with academic and personal growth goals.

Learn more about SCLA’s mission here:
https://www.thescla.org

3. How Students Participate in the SCLA

Students typically participate through school-based SCLA chapters led by an advisor.

Participation may include:

  • Leadership projects

  • Community service

  • Chapter meetings and initiatives

  • Workshops, programs, or events

  • Reflection and documentation of activities

Students are encouraged to take responsibility for their involvement while receiving guidance from educators.

 

How Leadership & Service Are Tracked

One of the most important aspects of SCLA is verified leadership and service tracking.

Students:

  • Complete leadership or service activities

  • Log their hours and activities

  • Have participation verified by an advisor or chapter leader

This ensures that student achievements are accurate, credible, and meaningful — not self-reported without oversight.


What Are the Benefits for Students?

Parents often ask how SCLA helps their child long-term. Key benefits include:

✔ Leadership Skill Development

Students build skills such as:

  • Communication

  • Responsibility

  • Organization

  • Teamwork

  • Initiative

These skills support success in both academics and life beyond school.

✔ College & Career Readiness

SCLA helps students:

  • Document leadership experience

  • Translate activities into resume-ready achievements

  • Prepare for college applications and interviews

This gives students a competitive advantage during the admissions and scholarship process.

Learn more: Benefits of SCLA Membership
https://www.thescla.org/benefits

✔ Recognition & Achievement

Students may earn:

  • Leadership certificates

  • Awards and recognition levels

  • Verified achievement records

These recognitions can be included in:

  • College applications

  • Scholarship submissions

  • Academic portfolios

✔ Exposure to Programs & Events

Students may have opportunities to attend:

  • Leadership conferences

  • Educational workshops

  • Virtual programs and webinars

Are There Scholarships or Financial Opportunities?

Eligible SCLA members may apply for:

  • Scholarships

  • Recognition awards

  • Leadership-based financial opportunities

Scholarships often consider:

  • Leadership involvement

  • Service commitment

  • Personal growth

What Is the Role of Parents?

Parents support their student’s success by:

  • Encouraging consistent participation

  • Helping students manage time and responsibilities

  • Reviewing leadership goals together

  • Celebrating achievements and milestones

While SCLA is student-driven, parental encouragement plays an important role.

Common Parent Questions

Is SCLA a school-approved program?
Yes. SCLA chapters operate with school involvement and advisor oversight.

Does SCLA require a high GPA?
No. Leadership development and involvement are the focus.

Is participation safe and appropriate?
Yes. Programs are age-appropriate and supervised by educators.

Is there a cost to participate?
Enrollment details are provided by the school or chapter advisor.

How Parents Can Learn More or Get Support

If you have questions: