From the desk of Tammy Hayes, Middle School Principal:

What does it mean to lead? How does the mere act of showing up to eat with someone qualify as leading? This is the topic we discussed with 30 of our students currently serving on the Middle School student leadership team.  Students were given the task of sitting and engaging in meaningful conversations with younger students in an effort to “encourage and be genuinely interested in others.” We discussed such things as choosing to go alone( not have to be with a buddy), picking topics that focus on the others around you (rather than self), and keeping the conversation going.  Students were eager to give it a try, which we did today on one of the most beautiful Monday afternoons we have had in a long time.

Mrs. Mize and I walked over to the lower school campus with our student leaders and ate lunch spread out among the 3rd, 4th, and 5th grade tables.  I was particularly struck with the enthusiasm with which they handled the task, and reminded of how many more of these types of opportunities need to be facilitated. Truthfully, we all want to be “the hero” for anyone else who needs one. I saw each of these students gladly sit at a table among small children, laugh and talk with them throughout the meal, play with their hair, hug, smile, and tell them all their knowledge of what it’s like to be in middle school.  It was quite a joy to see and, it definitely made me oh so proud of each and every one of them. It reminded me that these are indeed the types of exercises that offer students a glimpse into what they are truly gifted at doing, what they enjoy, and what they might want to be when they grow up

The buzz of excitement was electric as we left and began our jaunt back to class and all agreed that we needed to do this more often next year. It is definitely at the top of our list of repeats to put into place as often as we can.  Who knows what a little visit can do? Who knows what it might lead someone to discover about themselves as they focus their attentions on others instead of self. One thing I’m convinced of is that it builds confidence and teaches students in a safe environment how to engage in meaningful conversations, definitely a foundational component of leadership. Besides all that, it was just plain fun; another something we can’t get too much of!