LISD expands student leadership with growing summit program

By Anthony Collins

LPR Editor                        

   Lockhart ISD is continuing to put a strong focus on student leadership on May 11th, rolling out its growing Student Leadership Summit initiative across more grade levels.

   What started as a Fine Arts Leadership Summit led by Fine Arts Director James Crowley quickly turned into something bigger. After seeing the impact it had on students, Deputy Superintendent Dr. Stephanie Camarillo teamed up with Crowley and Student Services Coordinator Dr. Delia Cruz Fernandez to expand the program.

   Now, the initiative reaches not just fine arts students, but also secondary and even elementary students, bringing leadership opportunities to campuses across the district.

   Built around the theme “Leadership in Action,” the summits give students a chance to step outside the normal classroom routine. They work together, share ideas, and talk about how they can make a difference on their campuses and in their communities. The goal is simple: help students find their voice and learn how to lead with purpose.

And Lockhart ISD isn’t doing it alone.

   In today’s sports-driven culture, where it’s easy to focus only on wins and stats, 360 Athletics brings a different perspective to the table. 

 The organization partners with schools across the country to help student-athletes grow not just physically, but mentally and emotionally as well.

   Their programs are built around real-life skills, things like accountability, communication, and resilience. Through short video lessons, group discussions, and leadership activities, students learn how to build confidence and strengthen team culture without it feeling like extra work piled onto their day.

   360 Athletics also brings in speakers and hosts leadership events that connect with students on a more personal level, often focusing on overcoming challenges and setting goals both on and off the field.

  The program is already being used in thousands of schools nationwide, and educators say it’s helping create stronger, more connected teams and student groups.

   For Lockhart ISD, the partnership and the expanding summit initiative both point to the same bigger picture: preparing students for life beyond school.

   Because at the end of the day, it’s not just about building better athletes or better students, it’s about helping young people grow into leaders who are ready to step up wherever they go next.