Ethical Leadership

List of 4 items.

• Ethical Leadership in the Curriculum

  Using a variety of approaches, including self-reflection, film viewing, current event discussions, case study analysis, leadership-style exercises and team-building activities, students begin the deep work of figuring out who they are and where they fit in the context of the communities in which they exist.

   

  Our work evolves through the upper school years.
  
  

  • In the Ninth Grade Seminar we work with all students on vocabulary introductory concepts, and applications to their world.
  • In tenth, eleventh, and twelfth grades, students can opt to take one of the Seminars in Ethical Leadership (see description below).
  • Individual coaching and mentoring is available to all students.

• Leadership in Co-Curricular Activities

  The following programs take place outside the traditional classroom:

  • Captain’s Training: assists varsity captains in their leadership roles. Working to recognize common challenges and potential solutions, these meetings result in cross-team collaboration that we like to refer to as “a team of captains." These meetings take place every other week at lunch.
  • Student Leader Training: assists and mentors elected leaders, from all over campus, in their service to the community.  These trainings typically run once a month, with follow up conversations and discussions happening throughout the course of the year.
  • Peer Leader Program: trains current students to welcome our new upper school students and assists them in their transition to Masters.

• Seminars in Ethical Leadership

  The Seminars in Ethical Leadership are offered as electives — Ethical Leadership 1 for freshman through juniors, Ethical Leadership 2 for juniors and seniors (or sophomores who have completed Ethical Leadership 1), Leadership Theory and Practice, is open to all grades. 
  
  

  Ethical Leadership 1 and 2, focus on the notion of “leading self” focusing on values, purpose, goal-setting, leadership styles, dilemma analysis and communication.  We incorporate intentional collaboration to help us explore “leading others.” Ethical Leadership 1 ends with community based dilemma analysis. 
  
  

  Ethical Leadership 2 students also engage in an interview project, where students interview community leaders, alumnae/i and parents about their own life’s journey, including the challenges, failures and learning moments along the way. Both classes focus on real life ethical dilemmas through examination of current events and ethical dilemmas from daily life.
  
  

  We intentionally focus the lens forward in their lives, helping them think about the challenges they may face as they move on into adulthood, and what they need to do to prepare for those situations. Throughout the year, students write reflections on topics covered in class in the form of readings, films, and group activities. Students have told us that they’ve learned more about themselves, and also learned to appreciate the perspectives of those who may feel differently than they do.  

• FAQ

  What are the goals of the program?

   

  One of the main goals of the Ethical Leadership program is to reach as many Masters students as possible. Students have a chance to lead each and every day, whether in titled leadership positions, in the classroom, on the athletic fields, in the dorms, in performing groups, or through community service. By providing them with guidance and meaningful opportunities to practice leadership, we are confident that our students will gain valuable experience that they will carry forward to future endeavors. Additionally, through our work, we hope that every Masters graduate will be able to articulate and defend their answers to these six essential questions:
   
  1. What does it mean to be an ethical leader?
  2. Why should ethics be a part of leadership?
  3. How do I find meaning in my life?
  4. How do you describe a “good life”?
  5. What are the virtues of a good leader?
  6. Why should I lead?

   

  Is this program only for students who hold elected office?

   

  The Ethical Leadership program's work is based on the understanding that all of us are called to be leaders in our lives, at different times and in different circumstances. As such, the work we do is intended to help all members of the community, not just titled leaders, grow in their understanding of themselves as leaders and to provide the skills necessary to effect positive change.

   

  Are all grades involved in the Ethical Leadership program?

   

  The Ethical Leadership program works with faculty and students at all levels. Some faculty members weave ethical leadership concepts into their classes, both in the Middle School and Upper School. In the Upper School, students are involved in all grades: ethical leadership is part of the curriculum in ninth grade seminar class; in ninth, tenth and eleventh grade, Ethical Leadership 1 is offered, while Ethical Leadership 2 is an option for juniors and seniors (and some sophomores who have taken Ethical Leadership 1). The team and additional faculty meet with students in small groups and one-on-one to accomplish specific goals. Faculty also participate in the ethical leadership conversation through shared readings and discussion, and professional development that takes place both on and off campus.    

   

  How do I learn more about the program?

   

  Students can stop by The Center (located on the first floor of the dining hall) to find out more about upcoming events. Parents and alumnae/i should feel free to contact Associate Dean for Ethical Leadership Meghan MacWilliams at meghan.macwilliams@mastersny.org.