Students at Jackson Technology Center for Math & Science are preparing for the future with a fun, schoolwide competition. The Viking Leadership Challenge is a Ron Clark Academy-inspired, competition-driven initiative focused on improving communication skills.
“With our social media-focused world where students interact more on their devices, we are losing the person-to-person interaction that is vital to relationship building,” said Principal David Dunphy. “Many employers today mention the lack of ‘soft skills.’ We hope to give students opportunities to work on and develop communication and leadership skills.”
Dunphy and his staff created a five-round challenge that would help with these fundamental abilities. All 1,255 Jackson students participated in round one, which required every student to give a one-minute elevator speech. Homeroom teachers then selected one student to qualify for round two, a speed-interviewing event enhanced by real-life professionals.
“Sixty students had to rotate between five adult interviewers—which were district and PTA personnel. They had two minutes to answer questions and follow-ups,” Dunphy explained. “Just 20 students made it out of this round and moved on to round three.”
Jackson PTA President Melissa Karnes was one of the interviewers who helped select the 20 third-round competitors.
“It was amazing to interview these students. These children are absolutely brilliant,” she said. “These are skills that will benefit them from now through adulthood. It is really great that they are learning how to make eye contact, communicate and interact at this age. Social skills are lacking in a lot of areas, so this is really encouraging.”
Eighth-grader Jose Carrillo believes the Viking Leadership Challenge has already helped him develop important life skills.
“The interview experience was fun and creative. I liked interacting with people and meeting them. This helped me be more confident.”
Qualifying students will continue the challenge with a round three panel interview, round four local business tour and interview, and a still-yet-to-be-determined round five, which will result in the Viking Leader of the Year.
Information and photo provided by Garland ISD.