The 2024 Elementary Leadership Summit, hosted by Round Rock ISD Enrichment, brought together student council members and young leaders across the district for an inspiring day of skill-building, collaboration, and school spirit. In its ninth year, the annual summit empowered students to represent their campuses and learn valuable leadership skills in an engaging, supportive environment.
This action-packed event was coordinated by Enrichment Coordinator David Baird, who teamed up with district partners, educators, and staff to create dynamic, hands-on breakout sessions tailored to the students’ interests.
“The event is focused on school spirit and positive leadership,” Baird said. “Participants chose their own learning paths through a series of breakout sessions, competed in a spirit cheer competition, and engaged with two keynote presenters.”
Throughout the summit, students explored the opportunity to build and practice leadership skills such as teamwork, problem-solving, effective communication, creativity, and goal-setting through various breakout sessions and activities.
Gattis Elementary School’s Principal, Faezana Ali, said she thought the campus cheer competition, one of the summit’s most beloved traditions, was inspiring.
“One of the most heartwarming moments was cheering on each school with its own unique chant,” she said. “It added a personal touch, reminding our students that while they each bring a unique voice, we are united in our goals and values.”
Students and staff joined forces for the competition to plan and perform spirited cheers that proudly represented their schools. From eye-catching props to choreographed routines and outfits, each campus showcased its unique pride and energy while students from other schools cheered them on in encouragement.
Ali said events like these are important to student success.
“Events like this help to build a stronger district-wide community by fostering connections among students, staff, and leaders across our schools. It sends a clear message to our students that they are a valued part of something larger than their individual schools: that we are one community working together for their success. By empowering our young leaders, we’re investing in a stronger future for our district as a whole.”
Round Rock ISD’s Enrichment programs offer various opportunities tailored to students’ diverse interests and skill levels, extending learning beyond the classroom. These programs foster creativity, exploration, self-confidence, and teamwork while providing students with hands-on experiences that help them embrace new challenges in a supportive environment.
For more information about Round Rock ISD’s Enrichment programs, visit the Round Rock ISD Enrichment Page.
To see photos from the 2024 Elementary Leadership Summit, visit the SmugMug Photo Gallery.