Now, more than ever, we need thoughtful leaders who want to make a positive impact in their community. Middle school is more than a transition—it’s a defining season when students begin to understand who they are, what they value, and how they want to engage with the world around them. It’s also a prime time to begin honing the leadership skills that will guide them through high school and beyond.

One of the most impactful ways to support your child during these years is by fostering leadership at home. Leadership doesn’t require a title or a big stage. It begins in everyday moments.

Parents can help develop leadership by:

• Assigning meaningful responsibilities, such as helping plan a family event or managing a small project.
• Encouraging problem-solving by asking questions like “What do you think we should do?” instead of jumping in with answers.
• Modeling ethical behavior by talking about current events and the importance of integrity.
• Fostering empathy by discussing different perspectives and encouraging acts of kindness.
• Promoting initiative by supporting new interests and celebrating effort, not just outcomes.

These small but intentional actions build confidence, self-awareness, and a foundation for leading with character.

Building Leaders at BGA

At Battle Ground Academy (BGA), leadership is not simply encouraged, it’s purposefully cultivated as a cornerstone of the Middle School experience. We have found that youth leadership skills are most effectively developed in a culture of high expectations coupled with an intentional leadership curriculum.

Built on our core values of character, scholarship and excellence, BGA’s Leadership Program helps students build a strong sense of self, pursue personal growth, and make a meaningful impact. Following a self-growth-impact model, students strengthen key skills such as emotional intelligence, resilience, collaboration and intellectual agility.

Through hands-on learning, students explore leadership models, apply strategic thinking to real-world challenges, and complete a capstone service project that addresses a specific need within the Middle School. The experience builds planning skills, teamwork and civic responsibility.

By nurturing curiosity, character, and confidence during this formative time, we help students grow into leaders who think critically, act compassionately, and contribute meaningfully. Whether at home or school, these middle school years are a powerful opportunity to lay the foundation for leadership and to begin unleashing their full potential.