Learning to Lead
The goal of this program is to explore the dynamics of leading groups. Through experiential learning, students will gain insight on the relevance of what it means to be a leader on campus and the surrounding community of Muncie. In this two semester experience, students will be placed into a group that includes students from three local schools. We will accept 10 Muncie Central students, 10 Indiana Academy students and 10 Burris Laboratory School students.
Students will
- Discover their leadership skills, learn new skills, and lead each other.
- Explore proven leadership practices while working in a group to identify a social issue that is prevalent on their school campus and/or Muncie community.
- Attend a retreat, multiple group project sessions and workshops in which the theme of group leadership will be discussed.
- Work to complete a group service project over the course of an academic year.
- Make friends and have fun!
In the fall students will be asked to create a proposal for a problem you want to solve. In the spring student groups will come together to actually solve the problem and then report on their success.
Click here to see an overview of last year’s program.
Spring Schedule
Most meetings will take place at the Innovation Connector (1208 W White River Blvd).
Light snacks will be provided during every in person meeting.
The program begins in September 2024 and concludes April 2025 with a reception for students and their families.
- January 24, 2025 – Teambuilding Retreat to Twisted Escape Rooms (field trip approved through school systems)
- January 27th, 2025 – Model the Way – Innovation Connector
- February 3rd, 2025 – Inspire a Shared Vision – Innovation Connector
- February 10th, 2025 – Group Work Night – Innovation Connector
- February 17th, 2025 – Challenge the Process – Innovation Connector
- February 24th, 2025 – Group Work Night – Innovation Connector
- March 10th, 2025 – Enable Others to Act – Innovation Connector
- March 17th, 2025 – Encourage the Heart – Innovation Connector
- March 31st, 2025 – Group Work Night – Innovation Connector
- April 7th, 2025 – Presentations – Innovation Connector
- April 14, 2025 – Closing Ceremony – North Church Venue
Who’s In Charge?
This program is a collaboration between Ball State University Teachers College, Muncie Central, Muncie Burris, and Shafer Leadership Academy.
Muncie Central Social Studies Teacher Mr. Adam Cunningham, Muncie Burris Science Teacher Mrs. Amy Miller, Indiana Academy Assistant Lecturer of English Mr. David Haynes along with Shafer Leadership Academy Executive Director Mitch Isaacs serve as the staff team.
What Do Previous Participants Say?
Every year we survey the students and families involved with the program. Our program is consistently ranked as highly impactful by students and their families.
Click to see the feedback from last year’s students and families!