LEAD program presented to South Fayette ninth-graders
Ninth-grade students at South Fayette High School attended a presentation of the LEAD Program, which was developed by Allegheny County District Judge Ron Arnoni and Brad Killmeyer, author and teen speaker.
Killmeyer presented to the class and was joined by special guest and supporter of the program Norm Candelore, VP Vendor Relations with Sarris Candies.
The LEAD (Leadership, Education, Accountability, and Direction) Program is designed to help students reach their goals. It is offered free of charge to schools, thanks to support from numerous businesses including title sponsor Dollar Bank.
Killmeyer focused primarily on a “Roadmap to Success” in which he stressed the five “Ds” with the students: Direction, Distractions, Decisions, Discipline, and Development. Through short video clips and discussion, he kept the students engaged and excited to participate.
“The students at South Fayette are always very attentive,” he said after his presentation. “With excellence as part of the district’s mission, it resonates in the student body.”
Killmeyer also touched on social media pitfalls, including cyberbullying, substance abuse and available resources for help, handling peer pressure, and mental health, encouraging the students to never struggle in silence. His presentation concluded with the message, “Be a leader, not a follower.”
“This presentation is an engaging and impactful way to discuss leadership and making good choices and decisions,” said South Fayette High School Assistant Principal Robert Butts.
“They came last year and spoke to our ninth- and 10th-graders. We thought we would have them back this year to speak to our current ninth-graders.”