Spring break was no vacation for a cross-section of Swinomish youth.

Pre-teen and high school-aged tribal students sacrificed sleeping in and lounging in front of the TV to take part in a four-day conference at the Swinomish Gym designed to build self-esteem and develop lifelong leadership skills. It was hosted by Swinomish Health Programs.

By all accounts it was time well spent for the large percentage attending all four days. They were introduced to the Gathering of Native Americans (GONA) curriculum that focuses on identifying personal and community strengths, daily and long-term challenges...