• A Whole-School Transformation Process

    The Leader in Me is FranklinCovey’s whole school transformation process. It teaches 21st century leadership and life skills to students and creates a culture of student empowerment based on the idea that every child can be a leader.

     

    Started by Educators

     

    In an effort to turn around her failing school, Muriel Summers, Principal of A.B. Combs Leadership Magnet Elementary School in Raleigh, N.C., identified leadership as her school magnet theme based on community feedback. She approached FranklinCovey as a partner in designing, developing and implementing a leadership model for her school, which drew on The 7 Habits and also incorporated Baldridge quality tools and other educational best practices.

    Within a few years, A.B. Combs experienced what they viewed as a complete turnaround, ultimately being named #1 Magnet School in the U.S., twice.

    Teaching Students 21st Century Leadership and Life Skills

    When Principal Muriel Summers asked parents and business leaders what they wanted in their schools, what she heard reinforced what most people believe—that our schools should not merely be focused on improving test scores, but should provide opportunities for students to develop their full potential.

    • Leadership
    • Responsibility
    • Accountability
    • Problem Solving
    • Adaptability
    • Communication
    • Initiative and Self-Direction
    • Creativity
    • Cross-Cultural Skills
    • Teamwork

    Using Best-Practices and Universal Principles

     

    The Leader in Me is aligned with best-in-class content and concepts practiced by global education thought leaders. It provides a logical, sequential and balanced process to help schools proactively design the culture that reflects their vision of the ideal school.

    Content from The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People is a key component of the overall The Leader in Me process. The 7 Habits is a synthesis of universal, timeless principles of personal and interpersonal effectiveness, such as responsibility, vision, integrity, teamwork, collaboration and renewal, which are secular in nature and common to all people and cultures.

     

    Habit 1 — Be Proactive

    You're in Charge

    I am a responsible person. I take initiative. I choose my actions, attitudes, and moods. I do not blame others for my wrong actions. I do the right thing without being asked, even when no one is looking.

    Habit 2 — Begin With the End in Mind

    Have a Plan

    I plan ahead and set goals. I do things that have meaning and make a difference. I am an important part of my classroom and contribute to my school’s mission and vision. I look for ways to be a good citizen.

    Habit 3 — Put First Things First

    Work First, Then Play

    I spend my time on things that are most important. This means I say no to things I know I should not do. I set priorities, make a schedule, and follow my plan. I am disciplined and organized.

    Habit 4 — Think Win-Win

    Everyone Can Win

    I balance courage for getting what I want with consideration for what others want. I make deposits in others’ Emotional Bank Accounts. When conflicts arise, I look for Third Alternatives.

    Habit 5 — Seek First to Understand, Then to Be Understood

    Listen Before You Talk

    I listen to other people’s ideas and feelings. I try to see things from their viewpoints. I listen to others without interrupting. I am confident in voicing my ideas. I look people in the eyes when talking.

    Habit 6 — Synergize

    Together Is Better

    I value other people’s strengths and learn from them. I get along well with others, even people who are different from me. I work well in groups. I seek out other people’s ideas to solve problems because I know that by teaming with others, we can create better solutions than anyone of us can alone. I am humble.

    Habit 7 — Sharpen the Saw

    Balance Feels Best

    I take care of my body by eating right, exercising, and getting sleep. I spend time with family and friends. I learn in lots of ways and lots of places, not just at school. I find meaningful ways to help others.