Student Leadership Reunion held at Ronald Reagan Library

May 18, 2016
Santa Paula News

The 2016 Student Leadership Reunion was held at the Ronald Reagan Library in Simi Valley, Calif. where a total of seven Santa Paula High School students participated in leadership workshops, public speaking, and networking with friends from across Ventura County as well as the United States. The 2nd annual reunion brought together students who have participated in the summer program in the past. 

The event began with a welcome from Alissa Whiteley, Assistant Director of Education for The Ronald Reagan Foundation.  She congratulated the 2015 Ronald Reagan Leadership Program Alumni for making a major impact by providing community service projects to help improve their local communities.  This presentation was followed by a student panel where students shared their community service projects.  Veronica Landeros, a Santa Paula High School senior who is headed to the University of California, Berkeley in the fall, shared her project which is working with migrant students.

“When I first started, I thought I had a solid plan with big ideas,” Landeros said. “But after I started meeting students at their tutoring sessions, I realized they just needed another tutor.  Although this shifted me away from my original idea, I found a better way to be useful.”

   Other student presenters reported on projects such as STEM Girls, a junior high STEM club, a city-wide drug abuse support event for youth in Simi Valley, and Alex’s Lemonade Stand which raised funds for the fight against cancer.

Afterwards, students were randomly assigned to tables where they engaged in networking and sharing about their successes and challenges. This was followed by workshops with fun activities that challenged students to further develop their skills in effective communications, optimism, and informed decision-making — the three pillars of President Ronald Reagan’s leadership style.

In one workshop, students were asked to reflect on an important symbol in their life. Then students were expected to share how the symbol inspired them to be a better person and leader. The student leaders produced very creative and inspiring messages.

This year, Santa Paula High School is schedule to participate in the 2016 Ronald Reagan Summer Leadership Program.  Volunteers to help mentor our youth are needed.  Each will need mentoring, logistical support, and fundraising to achieve their community service project. For more information, to volunteer, or make a donation, please contact Richard Castaniero at rcastaniero@santapaulaunified.org or call Santa Paula High School at (805) 525-4400 Ext. 9513.





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