Innisfail middle and Spruce View schools welcomed students from across the province last weekend when they hosted the first Junior High Leadership Conference in the Chinook's Edge School Division.
More than 300 students from Grande Prairie to Medicine Hat took part in the leadership conference at Innisfail Middle School (IMS) from Nov. 27 to 28.
Students participated in a variety of activities and presentations including opening ceremonies, guest speakers and group sessions where students worked together.
“They have different breakout sessions where they learn about different leadership qualities and share ideas for their schools,” said Whitney Oakley, co-chair of the conference and IMS Grade 7 teacher. “It's an awesome opportunity for kids to get some fresh ideas.”
In addition, the two-day event included a trade fair with information booths about services for youth, carnival games, and a pre-conference warm-up where students learned cheers for motivation throughout the weekend.
“It gives students an opportunity to get connected. All these kids across the province are doing the same sort of things,” said Oakley. “They know that there are sometimes small efforts, when all added together, can turn into something big.”
Nikita Murphy of Spruce View School was one of several Grade 12 student organizers and hoped participants would find new ways to become better all-around young citizens.
“You have all these inspirational guest speakers who have overcome tons of things and it gets you thinking, maybe I can do it too,” she said. “Maybe I can make a difference in my school, in my community and in the world.”
The Junior High Leadership Conference wrapped up at noon on Saturday.
Whitney Oakley
"They know that their sometimes small efforts, when all added together, can turn into something big."
