Joy James Academy of Leadership Students Showcase Leadership Culture for Leader in Me National Symposium Attendees
Excitement and anticipation filled the halls of Joy James Academy of Leadership on Friday morning as weeks of thoughtful planning and preparation came to fruition. Joy James Academy of Leadership, an elementary school within Castleberry ISD, students and staff proudly welcomed 60 educators from across the country for an official Leader in Me school tour.
The Leader in Me National Symposium for 2023 was held in Dallas this year. The Symposium is an annual event that brings together educators throughout the United States who are on a common mission to grow and learn as they share best practices. In November, representatives from the Leader in Me organization approached the administration at Joy James encouraging the campus to apply to be a host campus for the 2023 Symposium. In January it was announced that Joy James had been chosen to be one of ten selected campuses.
Lion Ambassadors, Joy James’ student leadership team, led 11 groups on a comprehensive tour of the campus to showcase the many academic and social accomplishments. Students from pre-kindergarten through fifth grade were stationed throughout the campus to explain all the ways leadership is part of the campus culture.
The Leader in Me journey for Joy James started four years ago with a shared vision for growth in academics and student empowerment. The process included leadership training for staff and students based on the 7 Habits of Highly Effective People. Using these philosophies, students learn to take ownership of their learning by setting academic goals, tracking their progress, and celebrating their successes.
Joy James Academy of Leadership has continued to thrive and earned an A rating from TEA for the 2021-2022 school year. This was just one of many accomplishments shared with Symposium guests.
Students can definitely lead the way when empowered and given the opportunity. This was evident throughout the tour and every day at Joy James Academy of Leadership. Their accomplishments were inspiring to all.