7th and 8th Grade Student Leadership Day

On Thursday, April 18th, six seventh and eighth graders had the privilege of going to the Illinois Holocaust Museum for Student Leadership Day.  During the day, students had the opportunity to learn about human rights, civil rights, and the struggle to reach equal rights for all.  They also had a chance to tour the permanent exhibit, along with the temporary Courage exhibit.  They had lots of connections and questions about how we can make sure that these events don't happen again.

One of the highlights of the day was the opportunity to hear and meet former Chicago Bull, Bob Love.  His message of "education first and sports second", along with seizing every opportunity you can really struck a cord with the students.  Love had several pieces of advice for the students (both on and off the court):

1.  If the ball comes your way, catch it.
2.  If you drop the ball, pick it up.
3.  If you win, be a good winner, and if you loose, be a good loser.
4.  When the coach speaks, you listen!

He also spoke about being "great" and how it only takes a little more effort.  He told the group that hard works pays off, and to not follow the crowd.  Love also claimed that you need to be your own leader and overachieve whenever you can.

Here's some snippets from what the ACT students learned:

"Silence 'kills' and everyone should be involved and have a voice...it is important to fight for what you believe in."

"Prioritize school because without it you can't get far."

"Seize chances and overachieve-try everything and succeed!  People judge you by verbal communication."

"I learned to never let others stand in my way, and that I am so fortunate to have what I have when there are others that really need help."

"Never give up and let yourself fail.  Everything is possible."

"I learned that horrible things can occur if you don't stand up for what's right, and that no small kindness goes unnoticed...stand up for what is right and be kind."

Here are some pictures from the event:

Bob Love of the Chicago Bulls!

Bob Love arrives!

What are civil rights?

What are human rights?

Bob Love and A.C.T. kids!

 

Giving autographs

On a final note, as one student so eloquently said it, "there aren't enough voices in each individual to change the world, but together, we are loud enough."