News - Camp Leadership

It looked just like any other overnight field trip as students from across Baltimore County packed their bags, boarded buses, and journeyed past corn fields and rolling hills. But with the start of the 2006 Baltimore County Student Councils leadership workshop at Camp Ramblewood on September 28, students experienced a unique weekend of seminars, motivational activities, leadership lessons, and fun-with-a-purpose – learning to become more effective student leaders.

The 35th annual Leadership Workshop played host to more than 160 BCPS students and advisors who represented 23 middle and high schools. The event is held each year to help student council members learn from one another, become better communicators, and ultimately to hone their leadership skills to better represent and advocate for the county’s 107,000 students.

At Camp Ramblewood in rural Harford County, the first night saw rain coming down hard on the camp gym’s tin roof. But a little wet weather didn’t stop anyone from having an amazing time! After breaking the ice with some group activities on Thursday night, delegates were led by the camp staff – student leaders who spent days preparing the weekend’s activities – through dorm bonding exercises. Thanks to the student leaders, the first night went smoothly and definitely got each delegate energized for the next two days of learning.

Student leaders shared ideas and information working in small groups.

By the morning of Friday, September 29, the rain had subsided and delegates welcomed several BCPS administrators who visited to discover what camp was all about. These administrators were able to see keynote speaker Deb Erickson deliver an inspiring presentation about believing in oneself and reaching for one’s dreams. The excitement in the room was incredible as she brought students on stage to break wooden boards as everyone’s favorite motivational song, "Eye of the Tiger" played on the loudspeaker.

Ms. Erickson’s speech was the perfect way to start the day, which included workshops on leadership, communications, and team development. After absorbing a wealth of new information and learning about leadership, the delegates were ready for the evening talent show and candle-lighting ceremony. Delegates ended the evening by dancing into the night disco style (since the camp theme this year was "Leadership Fever.")

The final day, Saturday, September 30, was filled with interactive workshops about Parliamentary procedure, exchanging ideas, and developing skills through adventure education. That afternoon, buses arrived to take everyone home but as usual, no one wanted to leave! Each delegate had an amazing experience and was inspired to go back to his or her school and use the skills developed at camp.

Enthusiastic delegates at the Baltimore County Student Councils annual leadership workshop

This year’s camp would not have been the same without the special visitors who came to support the student leaders. Delegates were especially excited to see Board of Education member Meg O’Hare come for a visit; the BCSC has appreciated her interest in the development of student leaders.

Also, despite his always busy schedule, BCPS Superintendent Dr. Joe A. Hairston delighted students with his presence Friday evening. Many students were so excited that they even got up from eating dinner to take group photos with him! He then addressed the students with a speech that made everyone consider their roles in society and duties as leaders.

This year’s leadership workshop was a huge success, and students left Camp Ramblewood with the hopes that this year’s experience will provoke the development of new leaders who can make a difference in their schools and communities.

Story by Jennifer O., President, Baltimore County Student Councils. Photos courtesy of Baltimore County Student Councils.