LEADERSHIP ACTION PROJECT

 

2025 Leadership Prompt: Monuments and statues throughout the United States have come under scrutiny due to their links with racial insensitivity, notably those honoring Confederate leaders and symbols. While some assert that these monuments represent a painful legacy of slavery, segregation, and systemic racism, others argue they possess historical significance and merit preservation as reminders of the nation's past. Amid ongoing debates regarding the removal of Confederate monuments in the United States, delve into at least 2 of the following inquiries to guide your research, analysis, and final project:

 

How should we remember the past? Explore diverse perspectives on the significance of commemorating historical events and figures, delving into ethical and moral considerations entailed in addressing contentious aspects of history.

 

What should replace the Confederate monuments that are being torn down? Investigate potential alternatives to Confederate monuments, considering memorials that honor marginalized communities, significant historical events, or individuals who have championed social progress and equality.

 

What is the purpose of memorials and monuments? Examine the roles played by memorials and monuments in shaping collective memory, identity, and cultural heritage, reflecting on their symbolism of power, ideology, and commemoration.

 

What concealed and resistance stories of American history are most important for us to remember today? Identify overlooked or marginalized narratives within Black, African American, Latino(a), and/or Hispanic history, highlighting stories of resilience, resistance, and agency that challenge dominant historical narratives and foster a more inclusive understanding of the past.

 

How can we ensure that this history is not forgotten? Consider strategies for preserving and disseminating Black, African American, Latino(a), and/or Hispanic history, including educational initiatives, public memorials, cultural institutions, and grassroots activism, to ensure acknowledgment and remembrance of marginalized histories, integrated into broader historical discourse.

 

GLOBAL VOICES LITERARY ANALYSIS

 

​Prior to the competition, students should have engaged in a sustained study of one or more books. Choosing from a list of six (6) possible titles written in different formats, students will compose a creative response, which may be a poem, an original song with lyrics and musical score, letter to a major character, a letter from a major character to a leader or influential person connected to the time or struggle, a piece of art, or an additional scene or sequel event to the story. Click here to view the book options.

 

MATH QUIZ BOWL

 

Math quiz bowl teams will consist of three (3) members.  The team determines the division of responsibilities.  

 

All teams will compete at the same time and will have an equal opportunity to answer all questions. The moderator will provide each group with 5 questions to answer in 5 minutes. Groups will submit their solutions at the end of the given time frame. There will be a maximum of 30 questions covering topics in the areas of  Pre-Algebra, Algebra, Geometry, and Statistics and Probability. Answers will be either correct or incorrect. There will not be any partial credit for solutions. One round of the competition will involve a hands-on challenge.

​

 

STEM CHALLENGE

 

The STEM Challenge will bring four (4) members of the group together to work on a challenge presented the day of the competition. Teams will be provided a STEM-based challenge and the materials allowed on the day of the competition. Teams will not need to bring any materials nor prepare anything ahead of time. Students will be judged based on their ability to complete the task in a time frame of 30-45 minutes. This element of the competition will demand strong communication and collaboration skills as well as creative thinking.