Lyon Students Lead The Way

What are some qualities of effective leadership? What can middle school students do now to make a difference in the future? These were the questions Lyon Middle School students were asked to ponder at a two-day Leadership Retreat held in St. George last week. Approximately twenty students representing Student Council, National Junior Honor Society (NJHS), BETA, and Yearbook Club, took part in planning and team building activities in preparation for the new school year.

The highlight of the second day was a visit to Dixie State College, where students were given a tour of the campus. They visited the College of Business, medical and science buildings, and the gym. The students participated in team building activities with Dixie State’s Student Body President and Vice President. In one such activity, they were challenged to line up in chronological order according to the month in which they were born. But there was one catch. Participants had to complete the task without talking; they could only mouth words or sign to each other. They were required to think on their feet and employ problem solving strategies.

Dixie’s Dean of Students was also on hand to address the students. His message was clear: speak for those who can’t speak for themselves, have the courage to leave your group and meet new people, and always be willing to welcome others into your circle of friends.

Lyon principal, Rod Adams, who was among several staff members to chaperone the trip, had the highest praise for his students. Adams stressed the value of experiences such as these. He hoped these activities would give students the desire to continue after high school and helps them recognize the role leadership will play in their future.

“It was an amazing experience,” NJHS President, Jeremy Waite said of the retreat. ” I learned a lot about leadership. I hope I can use what I learned to be a better president for NJHS.”