Leadership Philosophy 1.
Students define their individual values and purpose.
Without knowing one s personal foundation, it is impossible to be an effective leader of others. Teaching leadership skills only prepares an individual for aimless leadership, and since aimless leadership is not directed toward a focused mission, it accomplishes very little if anything. Exercising leadership is done best on the micro level, where the student is an integral component of a community effort. What America needs most in the twenty-first century is leaders who will lead in their own communities. Civic participation in America has been in a steep decline for many years, and since civic participation is critical to a functioning and healthy democracy, it is crucial for highly educated and talented youth to understand the value of community-based leadership and local civic participation.