Simply the Best 2017 will be held on March 11 from 12:30 to 9:30 p.m. at Nashville Middle School. The program is open to Washington County 6th, 7th, and 8th graders and promotes personal development and positive self-esteem. The theme for this year is “A Better World – Hope.” About 200 area youth have the opportunity to participate in workshops, which wrap up with a keynote speaker. The evening wraps up with a team challenge course, dinner and a dance. In addition to being a memorable and educational program for middle school age students, it provides a leadership opportunity for high school students who volunteer to be teen leaders. Teen leaders will be involved in training sessions, beginning this week, to prepare for the event. Students planning to participate in Simply the Best will need to register by February 17. Registration forms are available at school, and should be returned with a $10 registration fee payable to University of Illinois. For more information call Amanda Fox-Clark at the Washington County Extension Office, 618-327-8881.