What began as a lively end-of-grade (EOG) pep rally on Shiloh Valley’s shared campus quickly became a moment that students, staff and families will never forget.
Under a bright blue sky, the energy was contagious. Sun Valley High School cheerleaders pumped up the crowd with spirited dances and cheers. Students and teachers waved colorful signs, music filled the air, and the shared campus of Shiloh Valley Primary (grades K-2) and Shiloh Valley Elementary (grades 3-5) felt like one big, joyful family gathering.
Behind the festive atmosphere, school leaders were preparing to reveal something truly special.
As the music paused, they proudly announced that Shiloh Valley Primary and Elementary had earned the prestigious Leader in Me Lighthouse status — a recognition reserved for schools that demonstrate exceptional leadership culture and empower students.
Cheers and confetti erupted as students hugged classmates and teachers. Their excitement lit up the morning. This celebration was not just about preparing for the EOGs; it was an achievement years in the making.
Union County Public Schools honors these two schools for their commitment to the Leader in Me program, an evidence-based framework developed by Franklin Covey to teach essential life skills and leadership habits. Achieving Lighthouse status reflects exceptional dedication to building leadership and a positive culture in both buildings.
Third-grader Jameson Mosley summed up the feeling.
“Becoming a Lighthouse school makes me proud. I help friends feel better, and I feel like I have a voice. I can say what I like and the changes I want to see.”
Fifth grader Emily Woodard shared how this success grew over time.
“The Lighthouse team and our whole school worked so hard. Every year, I see our school keep growing. We have leadership notebooks that we check weekly and shout-out meetings to celebrate kindness and effort. Our theme is all about achievement—we always try our best.”
The journey started years ago when Shiloh Valley’s two schools merged their vision. Dr. Scott Spencer, former principal and now at Marvin Elementary, recalled, “We wanted to unite the community as one campus with shared values. Seeing this Lighthouse recognition today gives me goosebumps—it’s so well-deserved.”
Dr. Susan Rodgers, Assistant Superintendent for Academics and an original leader in the vision, added, “This achievement is a testament to the entire community’s commitment to leadership, culture and academics. It’s exciting and deeply meaningful.”
Current principals praised their staff and students for making leadership a daily practice.
“We’ve embedded leadership into everything—from goal-setting to student roles,” said Lindsay Williams, principal of Shiloh Valley Primary. “Our team embraced this work fully, and it shows.”
At Shiloh Valley Elementary, Principal Jamie Gears highlighted student ownership.
“Our students lead initiatives like the ‘Monster Box,’ inspired by Monsters, Inc. They write notes recognizing kindness, creating a culture of care and respect. That’s real leadership in action.”
Superintendent Dr. Andrew Houlihan celebrated the milestone with them.
“Leader in Me equips our students with life skills and leadership habits that prepare them for success. Achieving Lighthouse status is a remarkable accomplishment, and I’m so very proud of the Shiloh Valley students, staff and community.”
From vision to celebration, Shiloh Valley’s Lighthouse recognition shines as a symbol of unity, growth and leadership—proof of what happens when a community leads together.
05/16/2025
