Four West Point Elementary Student Leaders Strengthen Leadership Skills at Ron Clark Academy

Four fifth-grade student house leaders from West Point Elementary School recently took their leadership skills to the next level through an immersive two-day experience at the Ron Clark Academy’s House System Leadership Academy in Atlanta.

As part of the Project Elevate Professional Development Program, students Kannon Mingin, leader of Isibindi; Georgia Richter, leader of Reveur; Alani Whitfield, leader of Amistad; and Elijah Roberts, leader of Altruismo, attended the academy on September 11–12, 2026.

Throughout the experience, students participated in interactive workshops focused on leadership, leadership theory, best practices, conflict resolution, public speaking, leadership simulations, and strategies for positively influencing others. The activities gave students opportunities to strengthen their leadership abilities in a safe, engaging, and supportive environment while learning how to inspire their peers and build stronger school communities.

When West Point Elementary School Principal Keneithia Cook and Emmanuel Reddish, Director of the Project Elevate Professional Development Program, began discussing the opportunity, they agreed it would provide an exceptional leadership experience for the students. Both were proud of how the students represented West Point Elementary School and the Troup County School System throughout the academy.

One of the highlights of the conference was a miniature version of the Ron Clark Academy’s well-known Amazing Shake experience. Students participated in interviews and a variety of speaking and communication simulations designed to build confidence, professionalism, quick thinking, and interpersonal skills.

Students also worked with their sponsor and West Point Elementary School House Staff Ambassador/Leader Janie Marie Messer to create clear and compelling visions for their Houses. They explored ways to inspire participation, earn buy-in from fellow students, and plan meaningful House meetings, celebrations, and service experiences.

For Mingin, the leadership lessons stood out most. “My favorite part was the class where I learned more about how to be a better leader,” he said.

Whitfield especially enjoyed the opportunity to practice communication skills while also having fun. “My favorite things were the Amazing Shake experience and the amazing student party,” she said.

Roberts said the team-based challenges were among the most memorable parts of the experience. “My favorite part was participating in the relay, puzzle, and survivor challenges,” he said.

Richter was inspired by the creativity and energy throughout the academy. “I loved seeing all of the paintings on the classroom walls and all of the decorations,” she said. “I also loved going down the slide at the end.”

All four students described their experience at the Ron Clark Academy as memorable and exciting and expressed gratitude for the opportunity to participate. Each said they would welcome the chance to attend again in the future.

TCSS is grateful to Tripp Penn and the Callaway Foundation for their continued support of Project Elevate and the district’s partnership with the Ron Clark Academy.

Now back at West Point Elementary School, the students will apply what they learned as they continue leading the Houses of Altruismo, Amistad, Isibindi, and Reveur. Their experience at the House System Leadership Academy has equipped them with additional tools to inspire their peers, strengthen school culture, and make a positive impact as young leaders throughout their school community.