Here at CAI Learning Academy, we make every effort to carry out the Leader in Me process with integrity. We believe doing so will help our students reach their full potential. We believe it will enhance their educational experience and make school a place where they thrive. More significantly, they will learn the importance of using their gifts and talents, not only for their own benefit, but for the benefit of their communities as well.
The 7 Habits are a combination of universal, timeless principles of personal and interpersonal effectiveness, such as responsibility, vision, integrity, teamwork, collaboration, and renewal, which are secular in nature and common to all people and cultures. In 2019 CAI Learning Academy added Stephen Covey’s 8th Habit. Here’s how the 8 Habits are taught to students in an age-appropriate format within The Leader in Me process:
You're in Charge: I am a responsible person. I take initiative. I choose my actions, attitudes, and moods. I do not blame others for my wrong actions. I do the right thing without being asked, even when no one is looking.
Have a Plan: I plan ahead and set goals. I do things that have meaning and make a difference. I am an important part of my classroom and contribute to my school’s mission and vision. I look for ways to be a good citizen.
Work First, Then Play: I spend my time on things that are most important. This means I say no to things I know I should not do. I set priorities, make a schedule, and follow my plan. I am disciplined and organized.
Everyone Can Win: I balance courage for getting what I want with consideration for what others want. I make deposits in others’ Emotional Bank Accounts. When conflicts arise, I look for third alternatives.
Listen Before You Talk: I listen to other people’s ideas and feelings. I try to see things from their viewpoints. I listen to others without interrupting. I am confident in voicing my ideas. I look people in the eyes when talking.
Together Is Better: I value other people’s strengths and learn from them. I get along well with others, even people who are different than me. I work well in groups. I seek out other people’s ideas to solve problems because I know that by teaming with others we can create better solutions than anyone of us can alone. I am humble.
Balance Feels Best: I take care of my body by eating right, exercising and getting sleep. I spend time with family and friends. I learn in lots of ways and lots of places, not just at school. I find meaningful ways to help others.
Inspire Others to Do the Same: I have found something I am good at and really like doing. I am proud, but do not boast. Instead, I use my expertise to help and inspire others.
What do students learn through The Leader in Me process?
The Leader in Me helps students develop the skills and self-confidence they need to lead their lives and succeed in school and beyond. Specifically, The Leader in Me focuses on students learning the following 21st-century skills: Self-confidence, Teamwork, Initiative, Responsibility, Communication, Creativity, Self-direction, Leadership, Problem-solving, and Social etiquette.
Students learn these skills through participating in goal setting, data tracking, leadership roles, student-led conferences, leadership environments, leadership events, and more.
A comprehensive list of questions and answers can be found at Leader in Me Questions & Answers.
How do parents support their children in The Leader in Me process?
Schools and districts typically make the decision to implement The Leader in Me; however, parents may choose to engage in the process as well. For example, some parents support their children by helping them set and achieve goals and track them in their Leadership Notebooks, and follow through on their leadership roles assigned by the school.
FranklinCovey also provides parents with additional information about The Leader in Me, as well as activities parents can utilize at home to help their children become leaders.
A comprehensive list of questions and answers can be found at Leader in Me Questions & Answers.
Leadership Day is a leadership event that is held each school year. Each spring, CAI Learning Academy opens its doors to family, friends, and community members to celebrate and spotlight the students’ leadership skills and their creative work. The event is developed and run by the Student and Staff Lighthouse Teams.
Please enjoy our pre-recorded Leadership Day 2021 celebration below!
Mindfulness is a way of being aware of what is happening within us and around us with a clear focus of attention on moment-to-moment experience that enables us to be fully present for life. Mindfulness cultivates integration within us, creating an inner sense of calm and clarity. Mindfulness cultivates an interpersonal way of being integrated with others as we become more empathic, compassionate, and connected to those around us. CAI Learning Academy incorporates mindfulness practices to increase students' focus, attention, self-control, classroom participation, conflict resolution, and all-over well-being. These techniques also help to decrease students' anxiety levels and disruptive behaviors.
