On Oct. 30, Eastport-South Manor Central School District held an exhilarating and informative event that unlocked the power of leadership, and which inspired, challenged and equipped educators from across the region with actionable leadership tools.

Held at ESM Jr.-Sr. High School, Interim Superintendent of Schools Joseph A. Steimel welcomed participants to Leadership Day and explained the importance that the Leader In Me program has meant for the district. “The Leader In Me program takes a great partnership,” Mr. Steimel said. “It is the mortar that brings all of our bricks together.”

FranklinCovey Associate Director of Research Kim Yaris kicked off the event with her presentation about “Why Leadership Skills Matter,” and explained that Leader in Me skills assist students in their preparedness for the workforce and beyond.

Keynote speakers Muriel Summers and David Hatch, co-authors of “Leader in Me” and their newest book, “Teacher Believed in Me,” unveiled Seven Leadership Skillsets proven to boost student-well-being, ignite engagement and renew educator passion. Depression, stress and anxiety are the top obstacles to learning, Hatch explained. Likewise, students feeling connected stabilizes a relationship with an adult [teacher].

“You need to recognize what practical things teachers can do to better connect with students and make a difference in their positive well-being and readiness to learn,” Hatch said.

Summers encouraged educators to remember their “why” when it comes to the profession and remarked that Leadership Skillsets take on the basic needs of students. She also cautioned educators that their words can leave an indelible mark on students. “The power of words can leave a heart print on open wounds,” Summers said.

The event also included three breakout sessions. Principal J.M. Jackson’s presentation “Shining Bright: From Seven Habits to Lighthouse Designation” celebrated the power of student leadership as the South Street School Leadership Team shared their inspiring journey from starting the Leader in Me Program to eventually receiving the Lighthouse Designation in 2025. Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction Dr. John Christie spoke about districtwide goal setting with four disciplines of execution. Additionally, Bellmore Superintendent of Schools and NYS Superintendent of the Year Dr. Joe Famularo delivered his address, “Changing Culture from the Inside Out: Living the Seven Habits in the Classroom and School Community.”

Leader in Me coach Robin Sampson also hosted a panel discussion with district students, two from each school, about how the seven leadership habits have prepared them for the future. Participants then attended tours of Dayton Avenue and South Street schools, led by student-leaders, to see firsthand how the district puts the Leader in Me program into play.

Eastport-South Manor Interim Superintendent of Schools Joseph Steimel explained that integrating the Leadership Skillsets continues to be a journey for the district. “Our Lighthouse Team continues the culture. It is not driven by one person.”

Click here to view the District Hosts Leadership Day slideshow.