This manual is written for adults working in the schools to organize student governments. It is based on the experience of the Youth Action Program (YAP) of East Harlem (New York City) in organizing and developing student leadership. The manual is divided into 10 sections. "Student Government: Leadership and Purposes" explores the relationship of youth and adults. "Organizing A Student Government" outlines the model developed in the YAP project. "School Improvement" suggests the role of student leadership in substantive change. "The School Conference" describes the organization of youth fairs, workshops, and other schoolwide events. "Community Involvement" discusses youth work with public officials and community action and service. "Ritual and Ceremony" suggests the value of pledges, installations, songs, and achievement banquets. "The Role of Adults in Developing Youth Leadership" discusses oppression, "adultism," and youth. "Leadership Training Components" explores the following topics: (1) "Developing a Concept of Good Leadership"; (2) "Taking Minutes and Keeping Notes"; (3) "How to Lead Good Meetings"; (4) "Developing Goals and an Action Plan"; (5) "Creating a Position Paper"; (6) "Mutual Appreciation"; (7) "Mutual Support"; (8) "Self-Estimation"; (9) "Building Alliances"; and (10) "Structures of Government.""Factors Contributing to Success of Student Government" outlines positive conditions. "Special Features of the YAP Model" reviews advantages and difficulties of the program. (AF)