Eighteen city employees began their Leadership Academy experience this week. The group represents all departments and levels of the organization from maintenance staff and administrative assistants to department heads. The Menlo Park Leadership Academy aims to develop "leaders at all levels" by strengthening participants’ understanding of their own leadership style and emotional intelligence. Participants learn how highly effective teams function, how to engage in productive dialogue and conflict management. The experience takes place over six full days throughout a 12-week period. Former participants serve as the facilitators for each session and lead the current cohort through various activities, exercises and discussions. The cohort graduation occurs March 25.