This school year, Sory Elementary School began implementing a student leadership program called Leader in Me, which is based on Stephen Covey's 7 habits of highly effective people. This program makes a difference on campus by helping to boost academic achievement and reduce problem behaviors.

The program is designed to give students the tools to help them be successful in school and life. Students learn how to lead, listen to others and work together, set goals and more. The impact is that students are taking responsibility for their own learning, and with fewer distractions, they are better able to focus in class.

On March 1, student leaders planned and led an assembly, where they welcomed representatives from Simmons Bank who presented a check for $18,000 to the school. The grant will be used to purchase additional materials to continue implementing the program at Sory for years to come.