Our Story

Our mission is to help young people develop their most valuable asset – themselves!

A word from Flo Brett

A Word from Flo Brett

ELA Founder & Executive Director

Through a variety of hands-on, engaging activities our students take a “journey of self-discovery” and gain essential tools for success along the way. Watch this video to learn more about Effective Leadership Academy from Founder & Executive Director Flo Brett.

I usually don’t think outside the box, just listen to everyone – but this program changed that.

2019 Warrensville LEADS Participant

"I LOVED this program, it really helped me change ME and shape me for real life, deeper situations! I’m so thankful I was selected to be a part of this program."

2019 Parma LEADS Participant

"It changed the way I look at people."

2019 Warrensville LEADS Participant

"I like that it got me to be all the things we learned in our tool-kit. I’m more open-minded, creative, I know myself better, and so much more. I loved interacting with all of you leaders!"

2018 Parma LEADS Participant

Program Participants

Identifying a Significant Gap

Effective Leadership Academy (ELA) began when Founder and Executive Director Flo Brett recognized the struggle of new corporate professionals who were expected to assume leadership positions, but lacked the necessary skills. In response, Brett developed and led an intensive adult leadership-training program with outstanding results. Brett then went on to identify a significant gap in student leadership training in middle and secondary schools.

Perfect success rate with alumni

Taking lessons learned and successes from her corporate curricula, Brett adapted it to serve the needs of students in grades 5-12, college students and educators to ensure they received essential life-skills education during their most formative years. The concept of training young people, and those who impact the lives of young people, with essential life skills led to the creation of ELA in 2008.

Dedication

And, most importantly, our staff and facilitators are dedicated to each student we serve.

Meet the ELA Team

Learn about us

Crafting a Solution

You'll get step-by-step instructions from start to finish, and you can ask questions and get feedback from our community of designers.

Track your growth and performance

Since its inception, ELA’s expert trainers have provided tens of thousands of students and professionals from throughout Northeast Ohio with custom designed and award-winning programs that turn potential into performance. ELA’s interactive programs focus on the development and enhancement of critical soft-skills and give youth the tools they need to succeed in the 21st Century.

Want to know more? Reach out.

Connect with an ELA team member today.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the core concepts of the program?

LEADS focuses on critical thinking, creativity, communication, and collaboration. Students learn about themselves and how best to navigate and lead within group settings.

How long is the series?

The series includes 3, 3- hour sessions for high school students, and 3, 2-hour sessions for middle school students.

Who is this series geared toward?

High school or middle school students who are identified as student leaders, demonstrate leadership potential, or even students who may be leading but leading in a negative manner.

What is the limit for group size?

Up to 100 high school studentsUp to 50 middle school students.

What is the cost?

The cost is $10,000 for high school and $8,000 for middle school.

What are the core concepts of the program?

Developing key 21st Century leadership skills for identified student leaders.