Two years after implementing schoolwide behavioral programs, Bovina and Bowmar Avenue elementary schools were recognized by the nationwide organization as being model sites for the program.

Both schools, the second and third Leader in Me schools in the state, were selected as Lighthouse schools by the Franklin Covey Organization. They join 86 schools nationwide and are the first two in the state to earn the designation.

The announcement comes on the heels of Dana Road Elementary’s selection as a third site for the program, an exciting prospect for Chad Shealy, superintendent of the Vicksburg Warren School District.

“We know the success of Leader in Me,” Shealy said. “We have seen it at two of our schools and through our partnership with the Chamber of Commerce, we are expanding. The exciting news is that Franklin Covey sees our success and wants to put our schools in the national spotlight as an example of excellence in education. It is a proud moment for this community and for the state.”

The program began locally in 2008 when the Vicksburg-Warren Chamber of Commerce spearheaded a push in the private sector to fund it.

The program based on Franklin Covey’s “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People,” focuses on giving students leadership roles in their school. It is a schoolwide model that provides a basis for improving academic achievement, decreasing discipline problems and increasing engagement among teachers and parents.

The success has been palpable for Bovina, principal Miki Ginn said in a statement.

“The Leader in Me has helped focus us as a community and has shown what we can accomplish when we work together to move our schools and community forward,” she said. “I look forward to continuing efforts with the business community and the other schools that are beginning their journey with the Leader in Me.”

Tammy Burris, principal of Bowmar, echoed Ginn’s sentiments.

“We are so proud that Vicksburg has the first Lighthouse Schools in the state of Mississippi,” she said. “It is extremely rewarding for students and teachers who have worked so hard to achieve the results needed to receive this level of national acclaim.”

For more information about the Franklin Covey program or Lighthouse Schools, visit www.theleaderinme.org.