What Does It Take to Grow a Leader?

I received a letter a few weeks ago from a member of our Jewish community. He happened to be present when three Mirowitz students spoke about racial justice at a Creve Coeur Coffee with the Mayor. And he was at gala for the Allergy and Asthma foundation when a Mirowitz student stood up and spoke about his personal experiences to a crowd of several hundred. Had he been in Jefferson City last week, he’d have heard two Mirowitz students testifying on behalf of transgender students.

“I’m blown away by the confidence, maturity and capability exhibited by Mirowitz students,” he said.

The fact that Mirowitz students use their voices for change is no accident. Our faculty has developed a school experience that adds up to more than just an education. We make a habit of asking, “What does it take to grow a leader?”

We grow leaders by giving students a voice.
Each child at our school knows that her or his opinion is valued. During discussions, students know they have a safe place to share their profound and sophisticated ideas. At Mirowitz, no one thinks it’s “uncool” to be smart.

We grow leaders by creating a model community in which every member is respected. Graduates of Mirowitz choose their friends carefully…for they know the signs of a trustworthy companion. They know what to do when faced with conflict and hurtful words…because the adults at Mirowitz have empowered them to be confident problem solvers.

We grow leaders by instituting leadership opportunities for every child.
In addition to giving classroom presentations in every grade, third, fourth and fifth graders read Torah and lead a discussion for the whole school. Middle school leaders are planning a festive Purim carnival for next week. In a few weeks, our fourth graders will lobby elected officials in Jefferson City.

We grow leaders by sending this message each and every day: You have the power to make a difference! Use it well in small ways and large. This Shabbat, ask your child some ways that even a child can make the world a better place.

Shabbat Shalom,

Cheryl