For years, Prefects have been selected through a thorough process, including multiple rounds of interviews. While Prefects and affinity group leaders receive robust leadership training, this year, Mr. Steven Moll, Upper School Dean of Students, introduced a new program to bring similar opportunities to the wider student body.
“The goal is to expose every student who goes through GA Upper School to at least participate in one leadership opportunity every year that they’re here,” Mr. Moll said. “And that builds throughout those years, like more responsibility. It was a need for developing leadership entry points in all grades.”
Responsibilities increase with grade level: 9th graders begin with introductory roles, while seniors take on higher-stakes tasks and serve as mentors. For students concerned about having prior experience, this opportunity does not require any prerequisites or qualifications to participate.
“So [for] the 9th, 10th, 11th [grades], it’s their job to facilitate and plan these leadership opportunities,” Mr. Moll said. “But what the 12th grade is in charge with is to be mentors.”
By fostering skills in accountability, mentoring and teamwork, this program prepares underclassmen to take on greater responsibilities and contribute as leaders in the GA community.
Younger students in the program have opportunities to interact with older students through various roles, which gives them a chance to develop a sense of social confidence in their passions and concerns. Every day, students are encouraged to contribute, whether it’s as small as saying a thing or two in class or something bigger like running a community time.
It is hoped that these new responsibilities will help students learn through experiences and with one another. Another of these goals is that the leadership program will translate to the classroom and even beyond that. For example, while playing sports, students can bring the leadership skills they learn from the program to their teams by setting a good example and knowing how to take action.
Mr. Moll’s new leadership program is an opportunity for students to get involved and step up into new leadership roles. Everyone can contribute to this cause in whatever way makes them comfortable, and students can take away good leadership skills from the program, no matter what role they take on.