Central Lee Elementary has been named a Lighthouse School, becoming the latest in the district to earn the national recognition awarded by Franklin Covey for outstanding implementation of leadership principles.
With this designation, Central Lee Elementary joins both Central Lee Middle School and Central Lee High School, which have also earned Lighthouse status recently.
The Lighthouse designation is directly connected to Stephen Covey’s “7 Habits of Highly Effective People” through the Leader in Me framework.
“Achieving Lighthouse status is a reflection of the purposeful work happening daily in our classrooms and throughout our district,” said Central Lee Community School District Superintendent Dr. Andy Crozier. “Having all three schools earn this recognition highlights the strength and consistency of our efforts. We are particularly proud of Central Lee Elementary for this accomplishment and its focus on developing leadership skills at an early age.”
To qualify for Lighthouse certification, schools must demonstrate that leadership is embedded throughout the school environment. Across all Central Lee schools, students are given authentic opportunities to set goals, track their progress, take ownership of their learning, and contribute to their school communities. Staff members participate in ongoing professional learning and intentionally model leadership practices in their daily interactions with students.
"Earning Lighthouse recognition is a reflection of the heart and commitment of our entire school community. From our youngest learners to our high school students, we are intentionally building leadership skills, creating opportunities for student voice, and practicing habits that will last a lifetime,” said CLES Principal Heather Fuger. “This work has transformed how we function as a school, and I am deeply proud of our staff for modeling what it means to lead with purpose and belief. When everyone believes that every child can be a leader, incredible things happen, and together, we shine bright and lead the way."
For more information about the Leader in Me Lighthouse designation, visit www.leaderinme.org/faq/what-is-a-leader-in-me-lighthouse-school/.