Grants Pass is one of 10 high schools and 7 middle schools in the state receiving recognition as a high achieving leadership program. The award, sponsored by the Oregon Association of Student Councils (OASC), sets high standards for student councils and leadership programs, and honors them if they can reach or exceed these goals.

The leadership programs begin by setting goals in the fall and actively participate in leadership activities and events throughout the year. In order to receive the award, programs must create and encourage activities that promote inclusivity among all students at the school and provide a seriesof events that includes a variety of different areas/disciplines in the school. Along with involvement in the school, they must also demonstrate that they are gaining valuable leadership and professional skills that they can take with them outside the school.

"Student leaders have the opportunity to make a tremendous impact on their school's climate and the academic success of their student body by the activities that they create and sponsor," Sara Nilles, Executive Director for OASC. The schools were recognized at OASC's annual Spring Conference which was held at the Holiday Inn Portland Airport on April 27th & 28th.

The Oregon Association of Student Councils is a non-profit member association founded in 1949 which provides leadership development for middle schools and high schools across the entire state of Oregon. Their motto is "Committed to leadership development with a vision of service, involvement, and action." They are sponsored by the Confederation of Oregon School Administrators and are affiliated with the National Association of Student Councils.