Tuesday, December 19, 2023
New Albany High School recently witnessed a remarkable display of ingenuity and leadership as two groups of students, armed with their Lean Six Sigma (LSS) Green Belt, Yellow Belt, and Leadership certifications, presented their final projects. The culmination of their efforts was not just a testament to their academic prowess but also showcased a commitment to addressing real-world challenges within their school community. The certifications earned by these students reflect a 12-point industry-recognized credential, highlighting their dedication to mastering data-driven problem-solving methodologies and leadership principles. These certifications not only equip students with valuable skills applicable in various industries, but also empower them to drive positive change within their immediate community.
The first group consisting of Sumiya Abdi, Catalina Ta, Elizabeth Kantor, Mario Jordan, and Juan Linares chose to focus on a topic of great significance in today's diverse educational landscape: supporting students whose first language is not English. These students delved into the complexities of language barriers and cultural differences that non-native English speakers often face in the classroom. Their comprehensive project offered practical solutions and strategies to create a more inclusive and supportive learning environment.
The second group consisting of Haruun Hussein, Riyan Jefferson, Alfredo Reichenpfader, Stephanie Nunes, and Ibrahim Abdulkadir took on the task of proposing a new tardy protocol for the school, recognizing the importance of punctuality in fostering a conducive learning environment. The students systematically identified inefficiencies in the existing tardy protocol and devised a streamlined approach to minimize disruptions and encourage timely attendance.
Behind the success of the projects were the dedicated instructors and career coaches who played a pivotal role in guiding and mentoring the students throughout their journey. Mrs. Murphy, the instructor for the course, emerged as a key figure in shaping the students' understanding of data-driven problem-solving methodologies and leadership principles. Her commitment to excellence and her ability to convey complex concepts in an accessible manner undoubtedly contributed to the students' success in earning their certifications. Additionally, the students had the support and mentorship of Coach Horsley and Coach Devon, who played a crucial role in helping the students connect their academic learning to practical, real-world applications. They also served as motivators, encouraging the students to explore innovative solutions and think critically about the challenges they chose to address.
The collaboration between the students and their career coaches extended beyond the classroom, creating a holistic learning experience that goes beyond textbooks and exams. The impact of Coach Horsley and Coach Devon's mentorship is evident in the students' ability to translate LSS principles into meaningful projects that address issues within their school community.