MBE Lancers learning to lead
At the conclusion of the third year with implementation of the Leader in Me process, the Lancers continue to exhibit incredible leadership. A Lighthouse Team consisting of administrators, coaches and teachers acts as an advisory group that supports others in their efforts to develop personally and professionally with a focus on continuous improvement. Student-generated mission statements hang outside every classroom. Leadership quotes adorn the hallways. Every student holds a leadership role. At the start of this school year, 100 percent of students and teachers began goal-setting and collecting evidence of learning in leadership notebooks. The first of many schoolwide assemblies was held last fall where students were recognized for exemplary leadership. Each month, grade level teams come together to share a Morning Meeting experience and strengthen social interactions among peers.
Doors opened wide in January for parents to join their children in Morning Meetings where leadership principles and habits were reinforced. February brought with it an opportunity for every student and teacher to be involved in a club experience. Over 34 options were presented to students, from which they selected an area of interest ranging from Lego design to a 5K run. This kindergarten through sixth-grade event served as a chance to foster schoolwide community. Based on positive feedback from all involved, buzz about another club day is already in the air. MBE wants to empower students by highlighting individual talents and strengths in a way that develops the whole child.
As flowers began to bloom in March, so did our outreach efforts. MBE hosted a day of Community Coaching where over 25 affiliates from other Leader in Me schools around the state shared in action planning, evidence analysis, reflection and coaching simulations. As visitors entered the school building, they were greeted by Squires who serve on a student leadership team called the Lancer League. These students introduce guest speakers for special events and showcase MBE when giving tours to prospective families. Jennifer Jones, MBE speech/language pathologist noted, “I have enjoyed working with the Squires these past few years. These student leaders are the “voice” of our school when others come to visit. They are excited to share how MBE is unique!”
PTO representatives were also greeted by kindergarten through second-grade students during their March meeting. Attendees were invited to preview a sampling of leadership notebooks and hear from students about Club Day experiences. We are working at MBE to share our learning with a broader audience. Allyson Martin, a second-grade teacher at MBE and member of the school's Lighthouse Team, points out, “Leader in Me and its impact on all members of the MBE community continues to amaze me every day. This process gives all individuals an opportunity to be leaders and empowers students and staff with the techniques to be a positive force. Change is happening here!” The MBE community is full of leaders and learners, each adding unique value that enriches the lives of others.
– Submitted by Principal Ashley E. McCombs.