WHAT A LEGACY!

Photos by John Heider

Silver Springs Elementary

Principal Katie Booth was absolutely beaming as students, teachers and family members gathered at the school on May 31. Booth couldn’t have been more proud as Silver Springs was recognized for becoming the first school in the state of Michigan – and just 14th in the world – to be named a Legacy School, the highest honor associated with the Leader in Me program.

“I know when you think about that there’s 7,000 total Leader in Me schools in the world, and there’s 700 Lighthouse schools and then you hear 14, you don’t realize how much that means,” Booth said. “You think I’m just a small little school, in this little town, but to be known as one of the first 14 Legacy Schools is a pretty incredible accomplishment.”

FranklinCovey, the organization that developed the Leader in Me program for schools, notified Booth and other school leaders in early May about the selection. According to FranklinCovey, a Legacy School exemplifies a strong leadership culture by unleashing the highest potential in students, staff, families, and community. A Legacy School stands as a global beacon throughout the world of greatness cultivated over time.

“FranklinCovey invited us to apply for the Legacy rating. You had to make a distinct contribution to the community to achieve that level,” Booth said. “So we asked ourselves ‘what is that legacy we want at Silver Springs?’ The overwhelming response from our staff, teachers and students is our inclusiveness and belongingness. It’s important to know that we have had a broad impact in our school community.”

The Silver Springs community celebrated the achievement on May 31 with an assembly, which was attended by a representative from FranlkinCovey, and then an after-school picnic for students and their families.

Silver Springs physical education teacher Angie Phillips said everyone from the students and teachers to staff and families were just thrilled to attain the Legacy status, because it means the school has a strong leadership culture that is able to unlock the potential in students.

“We’re very proud. It’s an honor that the students and staff have worked hard for and it’s great to see the leadership from the students as they help each other,” Phillips said.