Being a leader is more than telling people what to do—that's what students at Evans Middle School are learning as part of a leadership course, “Tomorrow’s Leaders.” Currently, 36 seventh graders are taking the semester-long course, taught by JROTC instructors Chief Wynn and Chief Reinier. The course is open to eighth graders second semester.
The course, started in 2010, meets every other day. After students sign up, they go through a selection process. Grades and behavior must reflect that they are responsible students. “Slots in the program have been very competitive,” said Reinier. “We have had up to 75 students sign up, but the class size is limited to 60.”
The goals of the class are to improve teamwork skills; enhance leadership skills that can be used in the classroom and the community; and get students to work outside of their comfort zone. Students learn the principles of problem-solving and apply them to a project that is assigned by the instructor. Although taught by Army JROTC instructors, the Leaders course, as well as the JROTC program, has no interest in recruiting but is centered around teaching students to become better citizens.
During a recent class, students were completing an After Action Review of the school’s Veteran’s Day event. “This is an important leadership function,” Reinier told the class. Not only does it provide an opportunity to reflect on the success of an event but also to make recommendations for future events that may be coordinated by future team members.
The class is divided into four teams, with rotating leaders at each table. Students take the course for a variety of reasons. “This class will help when I grow up,” said Jessica Klostermann. “I want to be in Student Council in high school. My sister is the Student Council president this year.”
“I want to be a doctor but I need to learn to be a leader first,” said Kasey Wainwright. She enjoys the class because it is hands-on. Wainwright also said the course has helped her in other classes to give everyone a chance to participate.
Students have learned the five levels of leadership and about personality types. Several students concurred it is their favorite class. “Since I’ve been in this class, students (in other classes) just make me the leader,” said Dawson Greene. His learning has also helped him when participating in team sports.
Students also get experience in public speaking and critical and creative thinking. “It motivates you to try harder,” said Paulina Ocegueda.
