BUCYRUS -– The climate and culture at Bucyrus Elementary School continues to change thanks in part to the students and staff following the seven habits of highly effective people in The Leader in Me.
A total of five Leadership Luncheons have been hosted to-date to showcase the leadership skills students learn at BES. More than 100 guests from the Bucyrus community have attended the Leadership Luncheons. From private business to local government, the variety of adults being exposed to the younger Bucyrus students is vast.
“Our luncheons have become one of our trademark ways to showcase leadership,” said Kim Haldeman, third grade teacher. “Our student performers and tour guides initially were very nervous about hosting adults at BES, now they take the challenges in stride and are proud to represent their school.”
Involvement in the Leadership Luncheons isn’t limited to just the older students at Bucyrus Elementary. Students as young as preschool play a part in making each event successful.
“We were excited to see our youngest grade level student guests sit at a table with so many unfamiliar faces and stay calm,” said Haldeman. “All BES students enjoy participating in, performing for, and creating decorations for the luncheons.”
The overall success of the Leadership Luncheons can also be attributed to the establishment of a formula that works for the students and staff at BES. Following and established practice means that just about any adult can step in and provide help where needed.
“We try to replicate our formula for each luncheon and make minor tweaks to improve the overall experience and process,” said Timothy Souder, BES Principal. “We are slowly changing our school culture so that putting our best selves out there is simply who we are.”
Guests have also helped shape the formula for success of the luncheons.
“We debrief after every luncheon looking at how we can improve. We gather input from our students, staff, and guests to help make those decisions. We want to give our guests a great experience and help our students grow in the skills needed for their careers,” Souder noted.
“The community response has been very encouraging,” said Haldeman. “As more and more guests share the positive experience of being at BES, we expect that there will be a community demand for luncheons.”
