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Dogwood fifth graders describe leadership jobs they say boost attendance and school climate
Summary
Fifth graders at Dogwood Elementary presented a student-run jobs program — from safety and greeter leaders to playground and mentor roles — that teachers say increases engagement and helps younger students; staff and parents reported children are more eager to attend school because of the roles.
Dogwood Elementary fifth graders described a range of student-run jobs at a Kearney R-I School Board meeting, telling the board the roles help younger students, reduce staff workload and boost student engagement.
"My job is Safety Leader, which means I make sure kids follow their mark during arrival and dismissal," said Amelia Hanson, a fifth grader in Ms. Jury's class, who told the board the role helps prevent rowdy behavior that can cause harm. Other students described duties that include greeting car and bus riders, keeping the cafeteria clean, mentoring kindergarteners and maintaining playground equipment.
Landon Halter said Greeter Leaders give high fives to arriving students to make them feel welcomed, and Louie described helping keep the cafeteria tidy so cafeteria staff have "less work to do." McKenna Barrett, who assists in Miss Beathler's room, said mentor activities include baking with students on Wednesdays and supporting classroom readiness.
An unidentified staff member told the board parents have reported children do not want to miss school because of their job responsibilities, and teachers said students applied and were selected for roles and must reapply or change jobs at semester.
The presentations were brief and intended to show how the district's program gives fifth graders "ownership in the building" and positions them as positive role models for younger students. The board thanked the students for their presentations before moving to the public comment portion of the meeting.
