Tuesday, November 1, 2016

Growing Student Leaders

 US academic environments define leadership as "a process of social influence in which a person can enlist the aid and support of others in the accomplishment of a common task".  We have leaders surfacing everyday in our district, from our staff, students to our parent and partnerships with community members.  Today, I would like to highlight a few examples of students supporting each other and coming together to achieve a common outcome. Growing leaders everyday!  Enjoy just a few stories from this past week and be sure to celebrate and recognize the student leaders in your buildings!


GISH students attended UNL's Spanish Day.   They were able to hear stories from students that shared their cultural background, toured campus, and took the opportunity to learn about college life! These students took advantage of this visit as they consider the options for their future.  A shout out to the staff that initiated and lead this effort, making a difference for our students.

Walnut MS Student Council is making a difference.  Last week they organized a culminating assembly to end Red Ribbon Week. The message from Mayor Jensen and Past Nebraska and NFL football player and current Drug Prevention Counselor Anthony Steele focused on making positive life choices and overcoming challenges.  This next week, they are planning recognition and celebrations for all Walnut Veteran's.  Student leaders making a difference for their peers!
                                                

Rachel's Challenge
​Following the powerful message of Rachel's Challenge, a group of approximately 100 Westridge students participated in the formation of our first ever Friends of Rachel Club, (F.O.R.)The goal of this club is to build a chain reaction of kindness and respect for everyone.  Our hope is to to spread this message throughout Westridge and beyond. All students, staff and eventually parents, and community members will be asked to sign an "I Accept Rachel's Challenge" banner.

Pictured with the pledge banner are from Left to Right:  7th graders, Shelby Heckathorn, Katie Weaver, Taylor Paul, Jordan Johnson and Alex Lesiak.  

Leadership-Difined by a 5th Grader

An elementary principal recently shared the insights to leadership from the lens of a 5th-grade student. This was the outcome of a writing...