Dear Families,
Beginning in the 2025 school year, Sumter County Schools is excited to introduce Stephen Covey’s, The Leader in Me curriculum as a foundational part of our student leadership and character development program. This program focuses on The 7 Habits, which will be integrated into daily routines, classroom activities, and school-wide initiatives to help students grow into confident, responsible, and compassionate leaders.
The 7 Habits—ranging from being proactive to synergizing and sharpening the saw—are more than just classroom tools. They are life skills that empower students to take ownership of their learning, set meaningful goals, collaborate effectively, and care for their overall well-being. By practicing these habits, students will develop leadership qualities that extend far beyond the school day and into their homes, communities, and future endeavors.
We believe that by nurturing these habits early, we are helping students build a strong foundation for lifelong success. We look forward to collaborating with you as we guide our students to become leaders of their own lives.
The 7 Habits
Habit 1: Be Proactive
I am a responsible person. I take initiative. I choose my actions, attitudes, and moods. I do not blame others for my wrong actions. I do the right thing without being asked, even when no one is looking.
Habit 2: Begin with the End in Mind
I plan ahead and set goals. I do things that have meaning and make a difference. I am an important part of my classroom and contribute to my school’s mission and vision, and look for ways to be a good citizen.
Habit 3: Put First Things First
I spend my time on things that are most important. This means I say no to things I know I should not do. I set priorities, make a schedule, and follow my plan. I am disciplined and organized.
Habit 4: Think Win-Win
I balance courage for getting what I want with consideration for what others want. I make deposits in others’ Emotional Bank Accounts. When conflicts arise, I look for third alternatives.
Habit 5: Seek First to Understand, Then to Be Understood
I listen to other people’s ideas and feelings. I try to see things from their viewpoints. I listen to others without interrupting. I am confident in voicing my ideas. I look people in the eyes when talking.
Habit 6: Synergize
I value other people’s strengths and learn from them. I get along well with others, even people who are different than me. I work well in groups. I seek out other people’s ideas to solve problems because I know that by teaming with others we can create better solutions than any one of us alone. I am humble.
Habit 7: Sharpen the Saw
I take care of my body by eating right, exercising, and getting sleep. I spend time with family and friends. I learn in lots of ways and lots of places, not just at school. I take time to find meaningful ways to help others.
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