Student Leadership in Focus

It was all about leadership this week during an intense two-day Leader in Me program hosted by the Henderson County Public Schools (HCPS) and Buncombe County Schools (BCS) and their respective foundations.

Developed by FranklinCovey, Leader in Me is a whole-school transformation program, creating a culture of student empowerment by teaching 21st-century leadership and life skills to students. The nationwide Symposiums are the most prominent and inspiring Leader In Me event series for educators interested in implementing the model in their schools.

“This important event brought together educators of a similar mindset to reignite the leader in them,” said John Barbour, Interim Dir. of the BCS Foundation. “It was inspiring to see both Buncombe and Henderson counties coming together to share their personal experiences...both the successes and the struggles.”

The two-day leadership symposium, held at the Crown Plaza in Asheville, was intended to showcase Leader in Me programs for school professionals from around the region who are interested in bringing this program to their schools. The two days were packed with student-led panels, break out sessions, and entertainment.

“Most importantly, the symposium was about showcasing student leaders. Students took center stage and demonstrated their many skills and talents. Ultimately, it was all about the students, and how we define and nurture their success and leadership,” said Barbour.

Emma, Glen Arden, and Estes Elementary Schools and Koontz Intermediate school staff and students represented BCS at the symposium. As of the 2019-20 school year, BCS is home to nine Leader In Me Schools with one set to begin training soon.

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Buncombe County Schools