Dear Cape Horn-Skye Families,
For every student to reach their full potential, they need good instruction, activities that specifically meet their learning needs, and a safe, welcoming classroom environment. In addition, we feel students need specific leadership skills to take charge of their daily actions and learning. I am very excited to share some information with you about a new program we have started at Cape Horn-Skye.
Our new schoolwide leadership program is called The Leader in Me and is based on a book by Stephen Covey called The Leader in Me. This program is based on seven habits that empower children to reach their full potential and become true leaders. Below is a month-by-month list of the seven habits and how they will be introduced to your child.
September: Be Proactive.
I am a responsible person. I take initiative. I choose my actions, attitudes and moods. I do not blame others for my mistakes.
October: Begin with the End in Mind
I plan ahead and set goals. I do things that have meaning and make a difference. I am an important part of my classroom and contribute to my school’s mission and vision. I look for ways to become a good citizen.
November: Put First Things First
I spend my time on things that are the most important. This means I say no to things I should not do. I set priorities, make a schedule, and follow my plan. I am disciplined and organized.
January: Think Win-Win
I balance courage for getting what I want with consideration for what others want. When conflicts arise, I look for options that work for both sides.
February: Seek First to Understand, Then to Be Understood
I listen to other people’s ideas and feelings. I try to see things from their viewpoints. I listen to others without interrupting. I am confident in voicing my ideas. I look people in the eyes when talking.
March: Synergize
I value other people’s strengths and learn from them. I get along well with others, even people who are different than me. I work well in groups. I seek out other people’s ideas to solve problems because I know that teaming with others we can create better solutions. I am humble.
April: Sharpen the Saw
I take care of my body by eating right, exercise, and getting sleep. I spend time with family and friends. I learn in lots of ways and lots of places, not just at school. I take time to find meaningful ways to help others.
May: Leadership
Bringing all the habits together to create school leaders. We celebrate our students’ leadership strengths and habits. We reflect on our successes and where we need to go.
Each month, we will be introducing the theme and giving students ideas of how we can incorporate these habits into our daily lives. The monthly Kodiak Assemblies will be a time to celebrate our successes and showcase how students have contributed to our school’s culture and climate. As a staff, we are excited to see students using these habits to reach their full potential, become leaders of themselves and others, while connecting with family and friends in positive ways.
In June, we “pass the torch”. Our fifth graders, who are moving on to middle school, will be passing the torch to our fourth-grade students, who will become our new leaders that younger students will watch and learn from.
Please don’t hesitate to contact us if you have any questions.
Sincerely,
Penny Andrews
