Senior Leadership is a class where students get to work with other students who struggle with cognitive impairments. The class is split into two groups, Group A being the class that stays in the classroom and Group B being the group that goes to the gym. After one marking period, the groups switch but students can stay in the classroom or gym if they want.

Whichever group you are in, it teaches you problem-solving, teamwork skills, and traits that will even help outside of the classroom.

In the gym, students get to go swimming, bowling, workout in the weight room, and a bunch of other fun activities! While students who stay in the classroom get to work one-on-one with the students. Doing things like learning/teaching everyday activities, meal prep, and even having some fun on Kahoot!

“Senior leadership has made me feel more comfortable with unfamiliar things, whether that be the daring questions asked by Mr. C or the tasks given that require us to collectively think. The kids we help in class are my favorite part and I can’t wait to graduate with my best friend Precious!” Adelia Nasir, a Senior Leader of Group A said.

“I feel like people should join the senior leadership because you get to watch and help the students grow. By being a leader for them and get to teach them ways to succeed.” Mary August, Senior Leader of Group A said.

“In regards to Senior leadership, it has been an eye-opening experience for me. Considering I have had experience with the autistic kids via peer pals back in elementary, I feel like that helped me in terms of getting to know the kids” Michael Roda, a Senior Leader of Group B said.

This class has given me the opportunity to go on multiple field trips; To the apple orchard, and friendship circle.

Friendship Circle is an amazing place. It is located in Bloomfield and inside it is set up like a little town. How it works is the kids get 12 dollars and they can go to little shops that are in the place. For example, the cafe, the salon, the general store. They can buy purses, food and drink, and other awesome things! 

 “The students I teach are very special, they are special in ways that most people would never appreciate if they didn’t get to spend time with them and I am glad that other students get to spend time with them.”  Todd Carney, the teacher of Group A of Senior Leadership said.

“The Senior Leadership class gives our students and the senior leaders a chance to not only learn from each other but also the opportunity to form friendships with their peers they may not otherwise have met. The senior leaders learn to be more patient and empathetic and our students light up when they see their senior leaders.” Cobi Gaigalas, the teacher of Group B for Senior Leadership said.

This class would be a great opportunity for students who like to work with others and those who love to learn new things! It is important to remember that this class is a class you can take during your senior year.