Take-charge J-L students

April 24, 2002

demonstrate leadership

By Michael Jones

According to J-L high school teacher and class sponsor Joann Skowronski, the Region II meeting of the Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) at Treetops gives the students the opportunity to "take on leadership roles and act like adults."

Skowronski said as part of the day students planned and presented roundtable discussions to their peers on topics ranging from preparing resumes and how to plan a meeting to learning about careers and teen topics such as anorexia and bulimia. "They do all of the planning, from lining up workshop presenters to deciding on a menu. It's a great opportunity for them to take on leadership roles."

Throughout the day, students also attended workshops on a variety of topics including kayaking, golf and yoga.

Keynote speaker Jennifer Wallace wrapped up the day's activities with a motivational speech for tomorrow's student leaders, stressing the importance of learning something new every day and acting as change agents.


"Every day I learn something new from a young person. Today you have learned that learning happens every day," Wallace told the group. "Each of you in this room has made a commitment to be a leader, to be a change agent and make a difference.

"You realize you have more to give than the average person. You are willing to volunteer, to learn, to listen and willing to change the planet. You are the future. You are someone special. You can achieve it, if you believe it."

Members of the J-L FCCLA use the leadership skills they have learned by performing a number of community service projects during the school year. The purpose of the FCCLA is to help students become leaders in their families, community and careers.

Petoskey News Articles