Justice students show leadership through service

Published 10:09 am Friday, February 8, 2019

A team of students at Justice Elementary School says they “doughnut” know where they would be without their teachers.

The Student Lighthouse Team recently handed out doughnuts to show the members’ appreciation for teachers.

It’s not the first time it has done something special for the Justice staff.

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Kimberly White, the guidance counselor at Justice and adviser of the Student Lighthouse team, said the students have also provided lunch for the staff and have plans to do even more in the coming months.

At one of the team’s first meetings, White said the students decided to do a series of projects that show their appreciation rather than do one big project.

“I had them write down their ideas, and one kid suggested how about we do something for the teachers and the staff here at school,” White said.

White said teachers nominate students to be on the team. Throughout the year, the students act as leaders within the school. Students lead special events such as Veterans Day, JAGS ceremonies and more.

White said she works with the students on how to properly greet adults, give tours and other soft skills. The team meets monthly to discuss upcoming projects.

Fourth-grader Matthew Jones is the president of the Student Lighthouse Team, and fourth-grader Sophie Ward joins him as vice president.

Jones said he wasn’t expecting the nomination, but it was a pleasant surprise. Ward said she had wanted to be on the team when she heard about it last year and was happy to make the cut for this year.

Other members include fourth-grader Hayden Arnold, third-grader Skylar Goodman, second-grader Eva Fitzwater, second-grader Michael Price, second-grader Aislynn Gordon, first-grader Asuzena Salas-Rodriguez and first-grader Taylor Dloughy.

White said she hopes to have kindergartners on the team next year and try to expand the programs into the community.

Ward said if other students want to be on the team, they need to step it up in the classroom.

“If you want to be on this team, you have to show leadership,” she said.

Jones said he also hopes to set an example for other students.

“Never give up on your dreams,” he said.

Jones said the younger members on the team have proven themselves to be just as capable and hardworking as the older members.

“They have good ideas, and they surprise you,” he said.

Jones said his favorite part of being on the team has been helping the teachers.

“I like helping the teachers, making them feel better,” Jones said.

About Lashana Harney

Lashana Harney is a reporter for The Winchester Sun. Her beats include schools and education, business and commerce, Winchester Municipal Utilities and other news. To contact her, email lashana.harney@winchestersun.com or call 859-759-0015.

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