Midland Independent School District (ISD) has approved a program aimed at fostering leadership skills, personal values, and community pride among students.
The iLead program, designed by John Maxwell, is a values-based leadership development initiative specifically tailored for students. It will now be implemented districtwide, as said in a news release. Maxwell is an American author, speaker, and pastor known for his books on leadership virtues.
"The iLead initiative will be a game-changer for our students," said Midland ISD Guidance and Counseling Director Heather Clark. "This program allows students to become role models for their peers, creating a ripple effect of positivity across our schools."
According to the Midland ISD news release, the Maxwell Leadership Foundation's iLead program is part of a nationwide effort to instill leadership skills in schools and their surrounding communities. In addition to leadership and community pride, the program emphasizes growth and well-being among students.
The news release also mentions that studies have linked leadership development with increased academic success, fewer behavioral issues, and a stronger sense of belonging within the school community. Students from kindergarten through 2nd grade will receive lessons from their teachers followed by group activities. Meanwhile, students from 3rd to 12th grade will use workbooks to lead discussions before participating in group activities.