We at Woodrow Wilson Elementary School are proud to be in our 3rd year as a Leader in Me School. Leader in Me is a whole-school improvement process based on the idea that everyone can be a leader. This evidence-based approach empowers students with the leadership and life-skills they need to thrive in the 21st century.
What to expect now that we’re a Leader in Me School?
Increased use of 7 Habits language
Leadership opportunities for students and families
The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People® is one of the key frameworks of the Leader in Me model. The 7 Habits help students learn and apply social-emotional skills. Additionally, the 7 Habits give students and staff members a common language and are essential in building a strong leadership culture. Learn about the 7 Habits in schools, or watch a free 7 Habits Webinar.
7 Habits for Kids
Habit 1 — Be Proactive
You're in Charge
I am a responsible person. I take initiative. I choose my actions, attitudes, and moods. I do not blame others for my wrong actions. I do the right thing without being asked, even when no one is looking.
Habit 2 — Begin with the End in Mind
Have a Plan
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 be a good citizen.
Habit 3 — Put First Things First
Work First, Then Play
I spend my time on things that are most important. This means I say no to things I know I should not do. I set priorities, make a schedule, and follow my plan. I am disciplined and organized.
Habit 4 — Think Win-Win
Everyone Can Win
I balance courage for getting what I want with consideration for what others want. I make deposits in others’ Emotional Bank Accounts. When conflicts arise, I look for third alternatives.
Habit 5 — Seek First to Understand, Then to Be Understood
Listen Before You Talk
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.
Habit 6 — Synergize
Together Is Better
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 by teaming with others we can create better solutions than anyone of us can alone. I am humble.
Habit 7 — Sharpen The Saw
Balance Feels Best
I take care of my body by eating right, exercising 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 find meaningful ways to help others.
The 4 Disciplines of Execution® is another key framework of the Leader in Me process. This world-renowned methodology helps our school, staff and students identify, track, and achieve school-wide/personal/professional/academic Wildly Important Goals (WIGS).
Parents play an important role in helping their children develop a deeper understanding and application of the leadership principles taught in the Leader in Me process.
Here are some things you can do to help:
Set goals with your family,
ask your child how he or she incorporated the 7 Habits in school,
Every year at Woodrow Wilson Elementary School we host a Leadership Day. This is an amazing day where we open our doors to the community. Students showcase their leadership skills, staff share their successes, and the leadership philosophy driving the culture of the school is tangibly “seen and felt.”
What to expect:
Student speeches
Students display projects
Performances by classrooms and individual students
