April 05th, 2017

I've tried to get away from the idea that youth are merely "our future leaders." This statement isn't incorrect - it's just not all there is. Youth can be, need to be, TODAY's leaders. We need them at the decision making table, we need them serving in our communities, we need them to help adults make wise decisions especially when it comes to policies that impacts their lives. And it's our responsibility, as teachers, parents, and stakeholders, to help them realize and become the leaders that they are capable of being. And we need to widen the scope of what it means to a leader. No, not all leaders are good public speakers, well-groomed, and well-healed. Some of the best leaders are the quiet ones, working in the background, never drawing attention to themselves, but slowly but surely getting the job done. In short, good leadership is humble, unselfish, passionate service - period. And I know a lot of people who possess these qualities - and most of those "leading" unfortunately - do not.
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As a teacher, it took me a long time to "let go of the reins."  But once I did, and learned to trust my students, they often blew past my wildest expectations. And yes, youth never cease to amaze me! Of course, there often needs to be some front-loading w/ modeling, discipline, background information, etc... and phasing in of taking on greater roles of leadership and responsibility. But in my experience, providing a variety of opportunities for students to lead and then trusting them (w/ guidance along the way as needed of course) leads to some amazing outcomes. Sure, there will be mistakes made along the way, but this is part of the learning process.