.jpg "Image of Locker Room Leadership Experience")
On Wednesday, March 1, scholar-athletes from Buchtel, East, Ellet, Firestone, Garfield and North attended the second Locker Room Leadership Experience this school year at The University of Akron. Students enjoyed a continental breakfast and a welcome address from Mayor Daniel Horrigan and Akron Police Chief Steve Mylett. Each school has a team of approximately 20 scholar-athletes from a variety of sports who serve on the Locker Room Leadership teams.
The goal of the Locker Room Leadership is to amplify scholar voices to improve the climate and culture in APS high schools. Each school has an adult adviser who serves as a mentor and consultant to the team. The schools have a $10,000 grant from the GAR Foundation to implement a building goal. For example, one team is planning a "Get to Know You Better" dinner with scholars and new staff in the building. Another school is providing incentives for scholars who have weekly perfect attendance. During the most recent Locker Room Experience, scholars shared progress on their schools' goals to the large group. They also heard motivational speeches from their peers that addressed mental health, perseverance and the value of hard work. After lunch, scholars attended breakout sessions where they spoke with community leaders and received leadership training.
Steering committee members are Joseph Vassolitti, Kemp Boyd, Johnny Adams, Ethan Humes, Rachel Tecca, Devon Carter, Katie Smucker and Dreama Whitfield. The committee is diverse and includes APS staff, parents and community members. The committee is planning the next experience that will be held in April.
