Creekside’s Character Team: Building Tomorrow’s Leaders Today

At Creekside Early Childhood School, the Character Team is more than just a group—it’s a gateway to real-world opportunities for some of Lakota’s youngest learners. Led by school counselor Jen Russell, this initiative is designed exclusively for second graders, who eagerly apply for the coveted positions at the start of the school year.

The Application Process

Each year, the excitement begins with morning announcements detailing the “job requirements” for the Character Team. This year, the enthusiasm was high, with over 200 applicants vying for just 24 spots, two-three members from each second grade classroom. A dedicated panel of adults carefully reviews each application to select the leaders who will represent Creekside.

“I am always looking for ways to bring real-world opportunities into the minds and hands of our littlest learners! Character team is the way we do this,” says Russell.

Once chosen, these young leaders take on a variety of important roles including helping new students feel welcome and comfortable by giving school tours, working shifts at the school’s popular Woot Woot Wagon store and participating in initiatives that build a stronger school community.

Leadership Development

The first session kicked off with a project titled “The Leader in Me,” where students reflected on the qualities they have brought to their new roles. They identified six character traits they possess and shared them with the group. Traits such as being caring and kind, leading by example and being problem solvers were just a few the students mentioned. Team member Colin Flick shared, “I make friends really easily,” highlighting his natural leadership skills. Russell explained to the team that these traits are not just words; they are the foundation of their leadership journey.

Assistant Principal Jessica Skelton shared words of advice at the first meeting, reminding the students, “It’s hard work being a leader. It’s really important that you remember that you’re a leader. Your goal is to inspire others to be a leader, too. You are Creekside’s leaders, and I can’t tell you how excited I am to see how you inspire our Cubs.”

The desire to be part of the Character Team often starts early. Leia Thomas said, “I’ve been thinking about this since I was a kindergartner.” Leia added that watching the second graders in this role inspired her to want to be a member of the team when her time came, showing the long-standing aspiration many students have to join the team.

Building a Better Creekside

The Character Team meets two-to-three times per month, continually working on projects that enhance the school environment and contribute to the community. These young leaders are not just learning about leadership—they are living it, making Creekside a better place for everyone.