What does it mean to be an "MKC [Teen] Leader"

Yesterday we took nominations for new Team [Teen] Leaders. The group of Leaders nominated two teens to join them.

When offering the position, the Team Leaders did something exceptionally introspective. They asked the nominees "Well, what does it mean to be a leader? What do you think it means?"
The Leaders then told the nominees what the position means to them.

"You gotta be MKC all the time... not just here." 

"You have to be a leader for other students all the time. If someone needs you during the day, you have to help."

"You have to step up"

This speaks volumes about the culture being created here at the Maria Kaupas Center. These teens are not only meeting our high expectations, they are also creating their own expectations and norms for their peers and themselves.

As the nominees listened to their peers explain what it means to be a "Leader" they were respectful and actively listened. Both nominees accepted the position and proudly wore their white "Team Leader" shirts to school today.

We are so excited to welcome these two young men to our Leadership [Teen] Team!