At Jenks East Elementary, we believe leadership starts early—and sometimes, it shows up in the most unexpected and inspiring ways.
During our morning walk around the track—a great way to start the day with friends and teachers—one of our kindergarten students, Sawyer, noticed something out of place: pieces of trash scattered along the path. Without being asked, Sawyer took action. With a heart full of care and a growing sense of responsibility, she began picking it up.
“I just saw trash and knew I needed to help the Earth,” she said.
She didn’t set out with a plan. She didn’t have a trash bag or gloves. But she didn’t let that stop her. She simply started. As she continued picking up what she could, she eventually found a trash bag and used it to collect even more. What started as a small moment of awareness quickly turned into a powerful act of leadership.
Later, Sawyer shared that at first, she wasn’t sure she could do it—she wasn’t sure if it was her job or if she was big enough to help. But afterward? She felt amazing. She knew she had done something that mattered. “I felt so good to help the Earth,” she said with a smile.
But perhaps the best part of her day was hearing how proud her teachers were. Their kind words and encouragement made her beam with pride, and it reminded all of us just how much a little recognition can mean to a young leader finding her voice.
At Jenks East, we’re proud to be a Leader in Me school where students like Sawyer are already learning the habits that shape a lifetime. This is what leadership looks like. It’s noticing a need, choosing to act, and growing with confidence—step by step, moment by moment.
We called her family to share the good news, and just like us, they were so proud of her. Way to go, Sawyer. You didn’t just help the Earth—you inspired your whole school.