Mr. Ramer’s newly introduced leadership class is wrapping up. Cultivating Leadership, known as “leadership class” around the school community, ran with the objective of allowing students to explore what it means to be a leader in all aspects of life: athletics, business, and one’s school community. 

The class included a series of group-led lectures, special guests who discussed the effect of being a leader, as well as the physical and mental health of an athlete who looks to play in college, and of course, the student’s favorite, a movie that was watched from a different lens of how a team works together and what it takes to have multiple leaders project one voice. 

“Students have their voice and ownership of the class, which I think is important, but overall I believe the class went pretty well,” said Mr. Ramer. 

When asked about his favorite activity in the class, Ramer mentioned The 2004 film Miracle directed by Gavin O’Connor. It’s a sports drama based on the true story of the 1980 USA Olympic hockey team and their journey of rebuilding and defeating the favored Soviet Union team. Students watched the movie over 5 class days to fully analyze the qualities of a team that didn’t have strong leadership at first but eventually built this through bonding and character development.

“The movie Miracle and watching you guys be invested and dissect it from a different lens and perspective was fascinating and one of the many moments that stuck out to me the most,” said Ramer.

Senior business owner  Michael Mellor came in to talk about his experience of the class and what he attained, hence his experience being different from other classmates. “I think it’s [class] has been very beneficial. I’ve been able to learn new ways to lead,” Michael said. “For example, when I’m out on the job with the guys, I’ve been able to view it differently. Yes; we’re friends outside of the business, but once we’re working it’s a different kind of status.”

When asked how and why students should be persuaded to take the class, Mr. Ramer said that student feedback is key. “You guys are the best advocators and marketers for the class, I think that’s the best advertising.”

Michael Mellor believes that taking the class will help athletes, especially younger athletes build their leadership qualities. Mellor has advised other students to take the class as soon as possible, whether they’re looking to own a business or lead their team. “I think if you’re interested in playing a sport in college and being a good leader, I’d say it’s worth it to take the class. Also, if you’re looking to get into business and being a business owner, you should take the class just I think it’s very beneficial in that sense” Mellor stated.

“I’m not worried about numbers or anything,” said Mr. Ramer when asked if students would take the class. Instead, he’s focused on finding another intrigued and eager group to learn as much as the first class. “It’s just, actually, I think at this point it’s getting the right group that wants to grow and learn together.”