Principal's Reflections in Boston
Reflections on the Importance of Leadership Education and Student Growth
Having the invaluable opportunity to lead students through a leadership education program in Boston, I witnessed firsthand the profound impact this experience had on them. The program was designed to help students reflect on themselves and build a strong foundation for their future career choices by visiting Harvard University, MIT, the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, and local educational institutions, where they were exposed to top-level American university students, researchers, and ideas. Additionally, through lecture sessions and activities led by local coordinators, the program aimed to help students recognize their own value, unlock their potential, and develop a confident approach to life. The outcomes were incredibly meaningful.
One of the key features of this program was its focus on output-oriented learning. Rather than passively receiving instruction, students were encouraged to actively express their thoughts in English through workshops and discussions. By debating a wide range of topics, including self-awareness, social issues, and career paths, they not only improved their language skills but also developed critical thinking and effective communication abilities.
Moreover, the interaction with top-level American university students was extremely beneficial. Instead of learning about leadership through traditional lectures, students engaged in activities alongside these university students, learning about leadership, cooperation, and maintaining a positive mindset. The university students served as significant role models for our students, who realized that leadership is about fostering teamwork, supporting others, and making a positive impact on those around them.
One of the most impressive outcomes of the program was the improvement in presentation skills. Students had the opportunity to present their future dreams and the kind of lives they aspire to lead in English, based on what they learned during the program. This not only enhanced their English proficiency but also improved their presentation skills, further elevating their goal awareness and self-esteem. Many students felt that they had gained a clearer vision of the path they should take and their future direction.
On the whole, this leadership program was an extremely valuable experience, not only in nurturing leadership skills but also in significantly promoting personal growth. Through active discussions, interactions with role models, and opportunities for self-expression, the students gained the strength to shape their own futures and built a solid foundation for thriving in a global society. I am confident that the lessons learned during this program will have a lasting impact on their future development. I do hope that our young leaders will make the world better.
Masaki TAKAMATSU, Principal of Kaichi High School
