Lighthouse Committee expands student leadership from elementary to high school

During the Punxsutawney School Board Committee Meeting on February 6, 2025, a significant discussion centered around the Lighthouse Committee, which aims to foster leadership among students from kindergarten through twelfth grade. This initiative allows two students from each grade to participate, creating a consistent leadership pipeline throughout their school years.

The committee has recently welcomed seventh graders who previously participated in the Leader of Youth program at the elementary level, extending the opportunity for continued involvement as they transition to high school. This move reflects the district's commitment to nurturing young leaders and ensuring that students have a platform to express their ideas and contribute to their school community.

The Lighthouse Committee, described as a grassroots effort, is still evolving. The program's structure allows for a select group of students to be involved consistently, which helps build a strong foundation of leadership skills. However, there is an openness to expanding participation in the future, especially as more students express interest in leadership roles.

In addition to the Lighthouse Committee, the meeting highlighted the importance of fostering a culture of leadership at all educational levels. The discussions emphasized that while the program is still in its early stages, it is a work in progress aimed at empowering students and encouraging their active participation in school governance.

As the Punxsutawney Area School District continues to develop these leadership initiatives, the community can expect to see a growing number of engaged students ready to take on leadership roles, shaping the future of their schools and beyond. The district's focus on leadership development aligns with broader educational goals of preparing students for active citizenship and community involvement.