Baltimore County Student Councils holds successful middle school conference

Middle school delegates built leadership machines out of magnetic pieces to symbolize qualities of a leader.

Some superheroes are born; some are made. But all of them need training and guidance to understand how to manage their powers and effect positive change.

In Baltimore County, promising young “superhero” student government leaders gathered at the Community College of Baltimore County – Essex on November 18, 2006, to develop their skills and to learn how to be even more effective in serving their school communities.

A high school trainer guided delegates through the "Superman Shuffle" communications workshop.

The Baltimore County Student Councils annual Middle School Conference was one of the most successful ever, with more than 100 students attending, including representatives of the newly opened Windsor Mill Middle School.

Leading the middle school students were high school trainers, who invested time and enthusiasm to make the day exciting. Each student participated in four different workshops, led by the trainers.

Since this year’s theme was “SUPERLEADERS,” the workshops included:

• “Batman to the Rescue” – This community service workshop involved creating winter craft kits for children being treated at Johns Hopkins Hospital. 
• “The Magnetic Force of Leadership” – At the leadership development workshop, students explored the diverse skills of leaders by creating three-dimensional leadership machines.
• “The Superman Shuffle” – The communications workshop focused on teamwork and problem solving. 
• “Spiderman Sticks to the Rules” – This surprisingly popular parliamentary procedure workshop gave students the opportunity to learn methods to better manage their meetings.

Delegates and trainers took part in a fun activity that involved teamwork, focus, and communication.

Following the workshops, the middle school students put their parliamentary procedure, communications, and leadership lessons to use in a mock General Assembly, as they wrote, debated, and voted on legislation. The bills presented by the middle schoolers had very mature themes, such as handicapped accessibility, healthy meal options, and adequate heating and air-conditioning in schools. Whenever there was debate, nearly half the room got up and lined up behind the microphones to express their opinions. 

The development of these young “superleaders” will continue at Baltimore County Student Councils events throughout the year and through the guidance of advisors and older “superleaders.”

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