NORWICH – Select sophomores, juniors and seniors at the Norwich High School received a crash course in dynamic leadership Wednesday during the first of what school administrators hope to be many student leadership seminars.
Approximately 50 students filed into the high school library early Wednesday morning for an interactive workshop titled Student Leadership 101, a brief course intended to develop the skills needed for effective leadership in the school and community. The three-hour seminar, facilitated by newly appointed High School Principal Kermit Moyer, touched on subjects such as active collaboration with classmates and teachers, maintaining positive relationships, affirmative image, and taking pride in one’s work.
The underlying goal, said Moyer, is to boost a positive climate and culture for the 600-plus students attending Norwich.
“Students do have a voice, they are important, they are valued and we as educators are here to provide for them,” he explained.
Students for the first leadership seminar were hand-picked by Moyer and referred by various NHS teachers as well as other students. Selected students were asked at the end of the seminar to consider their own replacement for the next leadership workshop to be held in the coming months. Moyer said hopes are to have three to four leadership seminars for different students throughout the upcoming school year.
He added, “I want these kids to feel a sense of ownership in their school and being in something like this sets the stage for a positive school year.”
During the course of the seminar, students participated in engaging activities that ranged from large group discussions to simple mind mapping. They brainstormed the characteristics of a leader, learned about the importance of effective communication, and even took on the burning question: Am I ready to lead?
“This was something that really helps kids learn about leadership,” said NHS senior Cody Barnes, one of more than ten seniors who attended Leadership 101. “I felt like this will help kids become leaders because it goes back to values that we can instill in others. It helps us and it helps the school.”
“What we talked about was very useful and it was good to do this before the school year starts,” added sophomore Michaela Fazio, an active member of NHS student council. “We know our work is not going unnoticed and I think because of it there are going to be more (students) who are willing to step up.”
Several NHS teachers and mentors were also on hand during the seminar to help guide students toward their newfound leadership goals. Said Social Studies teacher Michael Chrystie, “Our goal is to have them take what they learn today, the different strategies and the goals, and put them into action throughout the year. And applying what they learn, I think, will be a real challenge for students.”
“I think this was an outstanding experience for them,” added Moyer. “I felt these students were passionate and committed to providing change for a positive 2013-2014 school year.”