PULASKI COUNTY, Ark. -- Two Daisy Bates Elementary teachers have been named to the 2022-2023 Student Presidential Leaders class with the Clinton Presidential Center.
Tracy Hill and Yulonda Payne-Marbury are two of 11 educators chosen from around the state.
“These scholars and educators come together throughout the year in sessions where we learn what it means to be a leader,” said Tracy Hill. “Both scholars and educators have an opportunity to develop their skills and craft through this cohort. Although I work with younger scholars at the elementary level, this program is helping me to support and teach the "whole" student within my school in various ways.....socially, emotionally, and mentally. By helping scholars to feel safe and included in all aspects of their learning and life, I believe that I am making a difference in their future as well as mine.”
“My plan as an educator is to provide scholars with a positive atmosphere that is conducive to learning in a safe, fair, and productive environment by teaching to the "whole" child,” said Yulonda Payne-Marbury. “Some of the activities that I will incorporate in my classroom are gratitude journals, start an act of kindness challenge, morning meetings, and emotional check-ins.”
The Student Presidential Leaders Series offers a look at the process of presidential leadership, the importance of civic participation, and the tactics of turning knowledge into action. Through this program, the Clinton Center aims to build capacity within future leaders and enhance the abilities of educators to support student development.