How to Start a Student Leadership Program in Your School
Let’s be real for a second, a student leadership team means you have to let students be leaders. They need to experience authentic leadership situations and responsibilities. The experience is where the knowledge comes from on how to be a leader.
So, if you are going to empower your students to be student leaders, truly empower them. Give them responsibility so they experience connection and meaning.
Starting a student leadership program does wonders when the power is in the students’ hands.
To build a transformative initiative that fosters the development of future leaders, enhances school culture, and prepares students for lifelong success, check out this guide - it’s a step by step process to initiate and sustain the robust program.
1. Define the Mission and Objectives
Before launching the program, it is crucial to define its mission, vision, and objectives. This clarity will help guide the program's direction and ensure everyone involved is working towards the same goals. For example, the Central Wisconsin High School Leadership Program aims to develop leadership skills, confidence, and character in high school students through project-based learning and interactive activities.
Now that they have established a clear mission with solid objectives, they can start building what leads to those outcomes. The idea is, you have to know what you are shooting for, what direction you want to go. Otherwise, you won’t know when you get there.
2. Identify Existing Programs and Opportunities
Assess the current landscape of student leadership opportunities within your school and community. This includes extracurricular activities, sports teams, clubs, and classroom projects. Integrating the new program with existing structures can help leverage resources and avoid duplication of efforts. (2)
3. Create Additional Leadership Opportunities
Expand student leadership roles by decentralizing community service outings, project-based learning activities, and other school events. Ensure these roles come with clear guidance, training, and resources. This could include positions such as team captains, club presidents, or project leaders. (3)
Whatever you choose to do for projects, it is vital that students see project management structure that can be used to clarify roles, responsibilities, and timelines.
4. Incorporate Experiential Learning Opportunities
Combine leadership education (theoretical concepts) with practical training (application of concepts). This can include workshops on communication, teamwork, conflict resolution, and other essential leadership skills. The curriculum should be designed to be engaging, interactive, and relevant to the students' lives. (4)
Students have a preference in experiencing leadership skills through activities in the school building first. It is a safe area to practice and learned skill before going out to perform public relation campaigns.
5. Engage Community and Business Partners
Collaborate with local businesses, civic organizations, and community leaders to provide students with real-world experiences and mentorship. This partnership can offer students valuable insights into different industries and leadership roles. (4)
6. Select and Train Participants
Establish a selection process that identifies students with leadership potential. Provide these students with the necessary training, resources, and feedback to help them grow. This could involve applications, interviews, or nominations by teachers. (5)
The programs that are the most successful incorporate a diverse population of students. From grade level diversity to activity enrollment diversity. It is vital to have students from all groups and backgrounds be part of the team. If this is not present, the student body will likely reject the peer team.
7. Provide Ongoing Support and Feedback
Ensure that student leaders receive regular feedback and support. This can be achieved through monthly leadership roundtables, coaching sessions, and assessments of their leadership skills. Continuous feedback helps students refine their skills and address areas for improvement. (4).
8. Evaluate and Improve the Program
Regularly assess the effectiveness of the program. Gather feedback from students, teachers, and community partners to make necessary improvements and ensure the program remains relevant and effective.
Each school will develop unique processes and systems when structuring their student body leadership team. That is okay. Each school has its own unique context. Yet, by following a structure such as the one above, many of the vital elements are present to make a successful program.
Sources
Central Wisconsin High School Leadership Program: Central Wisconsin High School Leadership Program
Guide to Implementing Peer Leadership Programs: Alberta Health Services - Peer Leadership Manual
