Every once in a while, an opportunity for local students gives us a chance to see we have a lot to look forward to as they rise to leadership positions in our community, region and perhaps beyond. Last week, Belpre High School student leaders had a two-day retreat centered on leadership and collaboration. It included an IMPACT day — Inspire, Mentor, Partner, Advocate and Connect Together.

“We want our students to see the impact they can have on the community — and the impact the community can have on them,” said Robin White, Belpre student council’s advisor. “I.M.P.A.C.T. Day is about learning from each other. The students hear about real-life experiences from community leaders, and in return, those leaders listen to the students and take something away from the conversation as well.”

Rising BHS senior Liz Morrison said she is looking for fresh ideas.

“I wanted to bring newer ideas from different schools and go to different leadership opportunities and bring back ideas to Belpre,” she said.

Rising senior Roz Ensor talked about the importance of stepping outside the norm.

“I really like gaining new experiences, like community service in school,” she said. “I’ve just been able to try a lot of new things that I wouldn’t have been open to if I didn’t join student council.”

These are young people working already to educate themselves, to broaden their experiences, to be exposed to new thinking — and looking ahead to how they can serve and make a difference.

“We talked a lot about our mission and how we want to serve the school – and they came up with four core values that will guide them: leadership, compassion, attention, and inclusivity,” said White.

That’s an incredibly encouraging vision, and one that should make Belpre families proud to know they are raising young people with their priorities in order and the sights set firmly ahead.