Everyday Leaders

“I didn’t know Mrs. Reese, but now I feel like I do,” Chacho commented after hearing Jack and Robert’s effective presentation about their former teacher. 

Eighteen Grade 7 students in Mr. Ballaban and Mr. Creamer’s Leadership Lab embarked this fall on a provocative and multi-faceted project titled StoryCorps with the simple goal of getting to know everyday leaders on our campus. 

It is a complex task. Through a creative process akin to a fantasy football draft, Chacho, Carter, and their classmates selected members of Latin’s faculty and staff to interview. StoryCorps pairs crafted courteous, professional emails, avoiding the text-speak to which they are so accustomed, then based thoughtful interview questions on curiosity and research. Students arranged interviews and engaged with interviewees practicing the authentic qualities of empathy and active listening, taking detailed notes, and establishing an appreciation for members of our community.

“One of the forgotten qualities of a strong leader is one who is willing to listen,” a proud Mrs. K shared about her attentive interviewers.

Robert and Jack met with their former third-grade teacher, Mrs. Reese, who shared photos of the boys when they were in her class, sharing aspects of their own leadership journey at Latin. “Both boys were prepared with questions, made eye contact, and made personal connections to what I said. They took part of my answer and wove it into the next question showing they were active listeners.” 

The StoryCorps journey involves discovery, care, public speaking, knowledge, and purpose. Just as Chacho said, the depth of audience understanding and awareness allows the class as a whole to know the members of our community.