Engaging students with leadership...

Leadership skills are not something individuals are born with. Similar to language or math, these skills must be taught and the student allowed to practice until the skill becomes easier to demonstrate.

One way to begin exposing students to leadership situations might be through personalized instruction plans developed in tandem with the student. Letting the student take a lead role in her/his education can give them an authentic experience to begin to develop their own leadership skills and style.

Other methods might involve assigning students to lead classroom discussion on particular topics (or even have the students come up with the topics for discussion), establishing and supporting student-led organizations, and incorporating leadership content into courses. Another possibility would be to have students attend school board, town hall, or similar meetings. That would allow them to see people in leadership roles addressing issues relevant to the student's community and environment.

Also, collaboration is another opportunity. By assigning roles to students in a group, a teacher can 'force' the issue of leadership. Making someone the 'coordinator' or 'lead' gives them the cue that they are not just a passive participant. Instead, s/he should engage with the other students and guide the group in the necessary direction.