The Performance-Based Standards National Leadership Cohort, launched this month by the Center for Improving Youth Justice (CIYJ), is a six‑month program designed to strengthen the emerging leaders closest to young people, staff, and daily operations. The cohort is designed to invest in supervisors, unit managers, program leads, and rising leaders from PbS facilities across the country who play a critical role in shaping safety, culture, and outcomes in youth justice settings.
Through a blend of expert coaching, peer connection, and individualized mentorship, participants will strengthen their leadership skills and deepen their ability to use PbS data to inform decisions and improve outcomes. Monthly communities of practice and one‑on‑one coaching will support participants as they turn insight into action and lead with clarity and confidence. The program will culminate in a graduation this August at our annual CIYJ Gala, celebrating growth and impact of cohort participants.
Systems are joining this cohort because it strengthens operational consistency, youth safety, staff retention and leadership readiness. It fills a critical gap for emerging leaders who carry significant responsibility but often lack structured leadership development.
This launch marks an important step forward, and CIYJ looks forward to building and expanding this opportunity in the future. The cohort is hosted by CIYJ and designed and facilitated by Just Us Consulting, with Felice Upton serving as Program Lead.
To learn more or register for future cohorts, contact Rachel Salop at rsalop@improvingyouthjustice.org.