Elk Creek Students Learn by Leading

At Elk Creek Elementary, leadership isn’t reserved for adults; it starts in elementary school. Through the school’s Service Learning Program, fourth- and fifth-grade students who score “blue” (or above grade level) on their i-Ready reading assessments and demonstrate strong character are stepping up to help their school community one job at a time.

The idea is simple yet powerful. When students thrive academically, they can dedicate part of their day to serving others. Each quarter, participants complete a real job application, request a letter of recommendation, and interview for a position that helps the school run smoothly. From mentoring preschoolers to assisting teachers, maintaining school grounds, or serving on safety patrol, these young leaders are putting their skills, and hearts, to work.

“At ECE, we believe that a student’s learning is multifaceted,” said Service Learning Coordinator Will Brandes. “Learning does not just happen inside the walls of their classrooms. The Service Learning Program became the catalyst where students can practice their ‘beyond-the-classroom’ learning and growth.”

The program is in its second year. Currently, there are six students, five fifth graders and one fourth grader, who make up the program’s first group, but more will join as the year continues. The program isn’t a class, and students don’t receive grades. Instead, they’re held to real-world expectations: showing up, being dependable, and giving their best effort.

“If these expectations aren’t met,” Brandes explained, “they may lose their position. It’s all part of learning accountability and responsibility.”

Fifth grader Lula Sampley chose to work in preschool. 

“I love working with little kids,” she said. “When I come in, they run up and hug me. Sometimes they fight over who gets to sit by me at circle time!”

Her classmate Liam Watts works in kindergarten. 

“I help a student who sometimes runs around the classroom,” he said. “I help him stay in his spot so he can keep learning. It makes me happy to help little kids grow up to be nice people.”

Brandes said that’s exactly the kind of impact he hoped to see. 

“Seeing these students journey through the program has been a blessing,” he said. “I’ve seen growth in their confidence, accountability, and leadership.”

Students hold their position for one quarter, then reapply for a new one, giving them the chance to explore different types of service throughout the year. Jobs range from Learning Assistant (student and teacher support) to Grounds and Maintenance, Safety Patrol, and more.

“It encourages me to help others,” Liam said. “It boosts my charisma, and it makes me happy.”

For Lula, the lessons go even deeper. 

“I want to be a preschool teacher when I grow up,” she said with a grin.

At Elk Creek Elementary, the Service Learning Program is more than an enrichment opportunity, it’s a hands-on lesson in leadership, empathy, and community. These students aren’t just learning what it means to serve. They’re living it.