Leadership and Development Trainer
Antonio Guterres, Secretary General of the UN, says, “Our best hope for the future is the generation coming up.” I couldn’t agree more.
When talking with students, I start with this thought: “So many speakers say they are talking to the leaders of tomorrow, but I have a different view. You are leaders today – and you have been leaders since kindergarten.” Working with and listening to our young people, I am so encouraged by their insight, their inclusiveness, and their compassion for others. We see stories on television of young people doing phenomenal things to help others, and we marvel not only at what they do, but also at their ability to articulate as they share their stories. They demonstrate class and poise beyond their years.
I was honored to be a part of Synergy Leadership and Exchange’s “Gathering of Champions” this summer. The program recognizes students from kindergarten to eighth grade for their academic achievement. It was inspiring to see people from all walks of life, people of all races, all religions, and all socio-economic backgrounds coming together to celebrate their commonality. It was an absolutely exhilarating experience. And to think that this starts in kindergarten.
As I talk to athletes and coaches and parents about the ideas in my latest book, Always Be a Class Act, I am so inspired by their quest to keep winning in perspective and to focus on attitudes and behaviors that go beyond the verdict of the scoreboard. Coaching is getting better all the time.
As school administrators and educational leaders, you are blessed with a golden opportunity to encourage development of student leadership. It’s not rocket science. Encourage your staff to be mentors and motivators and to model attitudes and behaviors that make school a better place to be for everyone. Then get your students involved, provide them with the tools to succeed, and great things begin to happen. As one prominent politician reminds us, “When enough of us get on board, the rest will follow.”
John Quincy Adams’ definition of leadership is something that people at all levels, including your students, can aspire to. “If your actions inspire others to dream more, to learn more, to do more, and to become more, then you are a leader.”
Reflecting on the idea that our hope for the future in the generation coming up, we can relax. We’re in good hands.
Have a good year.
Denny Smith is a former teacher and coach, a motivational speaker, and an author committed to making our schools and communities safe and welcoming for all people. His latest book, ALWAYS BE A CLASS ACT, written for high school and youth sports athletes, their coaches, parents, and other adult mentors, is available on Amazon. He is currently working on his next endeavor, STUDENT LEADERSHIP FROM THE INSIDE OUT, which will be available in early 2026. For more information visit http://www.dennysmith.com.
