In an effort to foster leadership skills, St. Bernard has launched an innovative Student Leadership Club. This club offers students in grades 6-8 a unique opportunity to take on the role of mentors and educators for their younger peers.
Student Leadership Club aims to instill leadership qualities in students from an early age by providing a platform for older students to teach and guide their younger counterparts. Club members go into younger classrooms (grades K-5) to teach leadership lessons at five different times throughout the year. Topics include things such as what it means to be a leader, feelings, self-awareness, and more. The initiative not only nurtures a sense of responsibility but also promotes a positive and collaborative learning environment.
The heart of the program lies in the bi-weekly meetings where club members gather to brainstorm and plan engaging leadership lessons. These sessions not only serve as a space for creativity and idea exchange but also allow the students to develop their organizational and teamwork skills. Members also participate in activities that range from interactive workshops on effective communication to team-building exercises designed to enhance problem-solving skills.
Ms. Dudzik, the advisor for Student Leadership Club, expressed her excitement about the program. “This club is not just about teaching leadership skills but also about fostering a sense of community within our school. The idea is to create a cycle of mentorship where students learn from each other, creating a supportive environment for personal and academic growth.”
The club currently consists of 12 members amongst grades 6-8 and each of them has embraced their new responsibilities with enthusiasm. One of the club members, Grace, shared, “Being part of Student Leadership Club has given me a chance to step into a leadership role. I get to plan and teach lessons with my friends, and it’s amazing to see the younger students excited about learning from us.”
The impact of Student Leadership Club is already evident in the school community. Younger students look up to their mentors, fostering a sense of camaraderie and encouragement within the student body. Teachers have also recognized the importance of the program in fostering character development and positive peer relationships. “I was so impressed with the students that came into my classroom to teach this past month. They did a really great job and my students were so engaged. I think each of them learned something from their leadership mentors,” said Mrs. Hellmann, kindergarten teacher.
As the program gains momentum, Ms. Dudzik hopes to expand the club’s reach and impact. By providing students with a platform to lead and inspire, St. Bernard is nurturing the next generation of leaders who will undoubtedly leave a lasting imprint on their school and beyond.
St. Bernard Catholic School (PK3-8) is part of the Green Bay Area Catholic Education (GRACE) School System. It is a private Catholic school with open enrollment serving preschool students and elementary students from Kindergarten through 8th grade. St. Bernard provides an individualized education in a faith-based environment. Each child is supported not only academically, but spiritually.
