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leader in me

Brookfield Academy: The Leader in Me

At Brookfield Academy, we believe in nurturing not just academic excellence, but also leadership skills in our students. By integrating "The Leader in Me" framework, we empower our Montessori students to take charge of their own learning and develop essential life skills.

Why the “7 Habits”:

Implementing "The Leader in Me" program and the 7 Habits of Highly Effective People in our schools offer numerous benefits that enhance both student learning and personal development. This holistic approach fosters essential life skills, empowering students to become proactive, responsible, and engaged citizens in and outside our Brookfield community.

Montessori education and the Leader in Me program complement each other beautifully, creating a holistic approach to student development. Montessori's emphasis on self-directed learning fosters independence, critical thinking, and collaboration. These skills align seamlessly with the Leader in Me framework, which promotes leadership and personal responsibility through the development of essential habits. Together, they cultivate a nurturing environment where students take ownership of their learning, set personal goals, and build strong interpersonal skills. This synergy not only empowers students academically, but also shapes them into proactive, compassionate leaders, equipping them with the tools to navigate both their education and future challenges effectively.

"The Leader in Me" program promotes social-emotional learning by encouraging collaboration and empathy among students. Habits, such as, "Think Win-Win" and "Seek First to Understand, Then to Be Understood", foster a culture of respect and teamwork. These skills are essential, not only for effective communication, but also for building healthy relationships with peers and teachers.

Moreover, "The Leader in Me" program cultivates leadership qualities in every student, regardless of their age or background. By engaging in leadership roles and participating in service projects, students develop a sense of purpose and community involvement. This sense of empowerment builds confidence and motivates students to contribute positively to their school and beyond.

Incorporating these principles into the already proven success of the Montessori curriculum creates a positive school culture where students feel valued and supported. Teachers, parents, and the community can work together to reinforce these habits, creating a unified approach to developing well-rounded individuals.

"The Leader in Me" and the 7 Habits of Highly Effective People are invaluable tools for fostering personal growth, enhancing academic performance, and nurturing a collaborative school environment, ultimately preparing students for success in life.

Key Principles:

  1. Student-Centered Learning: We foster an environment where students are encouraged to set personal goals, reflect on their progress, and take ownership of their education.

  2. The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People: Our curriculum incorporates the principles of the 7 Habits, helping students cultivate effective habits that will serve them throughout their lives.

  3. Collaboration and Communication: We emphasize teamwork, encouraging students to work together on projects, share ideas, and develop strong interpersonal skills.

  4. Community Involvement: Students are involved in service projects, fostering a sense of responsibility and connection to their community.

Implementation:

  • Leadership Roles: Students can take on classroom responsibilities, allowing them to practice leadership in a supportive environment.

  • Goal Setting: Regular sessions for setting and reviewing personal and academic goals.

  • Parental Involvement: Workshops and resources for parents to support their children’s leadership journey at home.

The Leader in Me Parent’s Guide is based on the timeless principles found in The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People and the Leader in Me. This introductory guide shares easy-to-understand ideas and activities, and a reading list to help you teach and model powerful 7 Habits principles to your children and/or teens at home. 

We understand that the journey of developing leadership skills is not limited to the classroom. We believe in empowering families to extend the principles of "The Leader in Me" framework into their homes, ensuring that our students thrive both academically and personally.

Key Concepts for Parents:

  1. Understanding the 7 Habits: Familiarize yourself with the 7 Habits of Highly Effective People. Each habit offers a foundational principle that can guide daily interactions and decision-making.

  2. Modeling Leadership: Demonstrate the principles of leadership in your daily life. Your behavior sets an example for your child, reinforcing the importance of being proactive and responsible.

  3. Encouraging Goal Setting: Help your child set realistic, achievable goals. Regularly review these goals together, celebrating their successes and discussing areas for improvement.

  4. Promoting Self-Reflection: Encourage your child to reflect on their experiences and choices. Ask guiding questions that prompt them to think critically about their actions and how they can improve.

  5. Fostering Communication: Create an open environment for dialogue. Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings, practicing effective communication skills that align with the habits.

  6. Engaging in Community Service: Participate in community service activities as a family. This not only reinforces the value of giving back but also strengthens your child's connection to the community.

Practical Strategies:

  • Family Meetings: Establish regular family meetings to discuss goals, achievements, and any challenges. This practice helps instill collaboration and accountability.

  • Leadership Projects: Encourage your child to take on leadership roles within family activities, whether it’s organizing a family event or leading a home project.

  • Resource Sharing: Utilize the resources provided in this guide, such as worksheets and activity ideas, to integrate the 7 Habits into your family's daily routine.

At Brookfield Academy, we are committed to developing future leaders who are not only academically prepared, but also socially and emotionally intelligent. Through "The Leader in Me," we equip our students with the skills they need to thrive in an ever-changing world.

For more information, please visit the ”Leader in Me” website or contact us directly!

 

7 habits tree