Laura Grace Nash

Madison Crossing Elementary School
Canton, Mississippi
laura.nash@madison-schools.com

Why do you think student leadership development is important for all students?

Developing leadership skills in students of all ages is essential. Over the past two years leading Madison Crossing’s Student Council, I have witnessed firsthand how students grow into confident young leaders with a stronger sense of responsibility and accountability. Leadership development not only builds confidence but also enhances communication skills, strengthens
problem-solving abilities, and fosters a sense of civic responsibility.

Providing leadership opportunities for all students is especially important because it allows those with quieter or more reserved personalities to step into leadership roles they might not have otherwise pursued. One student in particular comes to mind—a student council representative who has always been shy and faced behavioral and academic challenges. Despite these obstacles,
she took a bold step and decided to run for her class’s student council representative. She wrote an application, delivered a speech in front of her classmates, and won the election. Since then, I have watched her blossom. She now shares her ideas confidently in meetings, takes greater responsibility for her actions in class, and is eager to contribute to improving our school.

Students like her are the reason I believe so strongly in the value of student leadership. Too often, students with leadership potential go unnoticed or lack the encouragement needed to develop their skills. Programs like Student Council provide a structured environment where these students can grow, ultimately shaping them into confident, responsible adults who carry these
skills far beyond the school setting.