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Middle School Success Stories
What People are Saying
“Seventh grade students at Bernardo Heights Middle School had the opportunity to participate in our Student Leadership program sponsored by The Ken Blanchard Companies. The leadership program helped students learn to take responsibility for their actions and to set realistic and measurable academic goals that challenge them to stay motivated to succeed. Additionally, our students learned communication skills that assist them in problem-solving situations with peers, parents, and teachers. It is nice to see more of our students assuming leadership roles on campus."
"BHMS is appreciative of the funding assistance from the Blanchard Foundation, the BHMS PTSA, Dana Moen’s efforts in writing a Dissemination Grant that paid for teacher training and materials, and to the many parents who have purchased the workbooks for their children.”
—Elaine Johnson, PhD, Principal, Bernardo Heights Middle School, California
“I can see a clear difference in the class who had the leadership training all year and the class that hadn’t. It’s a big difference. The students who had the leadership training take their work seriously, but they’re also a lot of fun to be with every day. They help one another, they’re proactive and productive, and they ask for help when they need it instead of waiting until the last week before I post grades to ask questions. They’re responsible young people who are learning the valuable skill of leading themselves, instead of waiting for someone else to do it.”
—Trudi Conaway, 7th grade teacher at Bernardo Heights Middle School, California.
“My son is now better able to analyze a situation-prioritize, negotiate, or make compromises if necessary-and then work hared to complete the task.”
—Parent of Classical Academy
“I had a great time. I know that we all did! We want to thank you for providing all of this, and I am going to get over my fear of talking in front of people. I also learned that it’s okay to start something and not be good at it immediately.”
—Shalaina P (age 14)
“I’ve listened to hundreds of students tell me that they feel more confident and are able to solve their own problems. I’ve seen their work habits, citizenship, and grades improve as well as their relationships with other students and parents. After the training, each student takes their book home and has a conversation with their parents or guardians about the skills they’ve learned. Students write personal information in their book regarding such things as their goals, points of power, overcoming obstacles, and personal mission statements. The goal of The Ken Blanchard Companies is to have all middle and high school students trained in this Student Situational Self Leadership course. What a gift it is, to give these students such valuable lessons now, before they enter the workforce.”
—Jennifer Zingg, co-author of Student SSL and teacher at Rancho Bernardo Middle School, California
A Leadership story of a middle school boy who learned how to communicate better with peers and be more accepted among peers.
Adam was diagnosed at a young age with Asperger's Syndrome and Diabetes. Instead of taking numerous medicines, Adam fully cooperated with the grueling diet and exercise regimen that was imposed on him at the young age of 6 years old.
At the age of 9 years, Adam had already lost 31 lb and tests revealed no traces of the diabetes. However, the Doctor clearly stated that if Adam will stray from his grilling regimen of diet and exercise, the diabetes symptoms will return and may even become worse.
At the age of 3.5, Adam was diagnosed with High Functioning Autism—Asperger's Syndrome. With a higher than average, IQ Adam was confused, and isolated in his own little world. Friends were out of the questions because Adam could not communicate with his peers clearly enough. He would talk on various topics while using sophisticated language that his peers did not care for. This type of behavior led to excessive bullying and social isolation.
However, with much direction and this past year the leadership program; Adam learned how to be socially appropriate among his peers. He is now able to communicate with others and behave in an acceptable way that will not encourage teasing or bullying.
Adam has come a long way, especially effective was the year between six and seventh grade when he participated in the Ken Blanchard Student Situational Self Leadership.
We are very proud of Adam...
Many Thanks,
Adam’s Mom
A leadership success story from Brittany, a middle school girl
What you have taught me will be with my for the rest of my life, when I grow up, I will teach my kids what you have taught me and I will be the same role model to them that you are to me. One day, when I have kids and a husband, I will be a psychologist as good as Dr. Phil because I know I will, I just know it. You have taught me not to wish for things but just to go our and do it.
Sometimes I even get this feeling like I want to change some ones life, right then and there. I get this feeling like you can never be too young to make a difference in the world and I know that feeling is true.
Always and Forever,
Brittany
I have learned things that I can really use in the real world which is really good. I mean learning things like how to shake hands, how to build confidence, how to speak in front of people. These are all skills normal classes wouldn’t teach and yet they are so important in the real world. I am really glad I took leadership as my elective.
Sincerely,
Erica