Rob Maldonado

Nancy Young Elementary School
Aurora, Illinois
rob_maldonado@ipsd.org

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

Student leadership holds an important place in the development of the emerging leader. Development of student leadership skills is critical for all students because it teaches valuable experiences and real skills that students gain that will be used in their adult life.

In the area of public and community service, we as the human race owe it to the rest of society to give because the single greatest thing you can do in your life is to help another person. Thinking forward in a global society, there is no shortage of help that student leaders can provide. I believe it is a privilege and fundamental right to serve others.

Working with teams and toward common goals will be part of your life as an adult, and the world needs people that can collaborate, communicate effectively, and take initiative. The world is a busy and competitive place and participating in group activities shapes that part of your mind and your practice that puts you above the rest.

Reflection of events and practices, successes and failures, what could have been done differently and making plans to increase efficiency and effectiveness of service in subsequent years benefits the global good. Leadership opportunities encourage self-discovery, allowing students to identify their strengths and weaknesses. It promotes self-awareness, empathy, and a sense of responsibility. These are essential qualities for personal and social development.

Leadership also includes holding skills applicable to every aspect of life. Skills like communication, problem-solving, critical thinking, teamwork, being responsible, engaged and confident.

At times, a leader should be out in front of the action. Cultivating public speaking at an early age hones those skills to make connections with others on a cerebral level. Providing exposure to opportunities of practice and immersion in many events allows real connections and improves growth and development.