The Leadership Model Program receives national recognition for its emphasis on developing leadership in young children. It is grounded in the belief that building cooperative relationships and nurturing responsiblity, kindness and good judgement is the basis for creating a successful community of learners. By developing the WHOLE child - socially, emotionally, academically and ethically - the program fosters a climate of principle-centered and personal leadership.

The principles of Dr. Stephen R. Covey , internationally renowned consultant and author of the 7 HABITS OF HIGHLY EFFECTIVE PEOPLE and FIRST THINGS FIRST, are embedded in the school's culture and guide the student, faculty and staff in building the leadership model. In addition, as part of a collaboration with the PTA, community members and families are given the opportunity through seminars to learn about and apply these principles.

Each quarter of the school year, students identify and set their own personal academic goals. Using Baldrige criteria, data collection and data analysis practices, children track their progress and growth over the course of the school year. Students also learn social etiquette and develop communication and presentation skills through student-lead programming including a daily news broadcast, school-wide assemblies, community service projects, and an innovative Leader of the Week Program featuring local, state and national leaders.

The 7 Habits of Happy Kids

Check it out! In bookstores now is The 7 Habits of Happy Kids by Dr. Sean Covey. Beautifully illustrated by Stacy Curtis, this picture book introduces children to the clever characters of Seven Oaks with amusing stories that tell of their adventures as they learn the same principles found in The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People . These are great stories to read at home with your family to reinforce our Covey language and support the leadership skills we teach here at Combs. The language is kid-friendly and will help even the youngest learner understand the habits! This book is already targeted as a best seller!

             1. Be Proactive = Kids must do what makes them happy. Instead 
                 of saying, "I'm bored!", make a plan of what to do.
             2. Begin With the End In Mind = Have a plan to have fun. Write down
                 your goals.
             3. Put First Things First = Work first, then play.
             4. Think Win-Win = Always think about others and yourself.
             5. Seek First to Understand, Then to Be Understood  = Listen before
                 you talk.
             6. Synergize = Together is better.
             7. Sharpen the Saw = Balance is best