Gifted students thrive when given opportunities to lead. Leadership experiences can take many forms — from structured programs like JROTC to captaining sports teams and organizing clubs. Each of these builds self-confidence, interpersonal skills, and strategic thinking.
JROTC (Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps) is one notable leadership pipeline in many high schools. Through JROTC, students learn discipline, teamwork, civic responsibility, and public service. Cadets often take roles in planning events, mentoring younger students, and leading community initiatives. These leadership experiences help students translate academic insights into real-world actions.
Leadership in sports transcends athleticism. Team captains develop communication skills, resilience, and the ability to motivate peers. Whether it’s soccer, cross country, or volleyball, student-leaders learn how to manage conflict, set goals, and support others under pressure.
Student-led clubs open another world of leadership potential. Whether a student starts a STEM club, cultural group, or a service organization, these clubs give gifted learners ownership over designing activities, recruiting members, planning events, and securing resources. School clubs often involve coordinating meetings, managing budgets, and presenting to administrators, which are all mature leadership tasks with high reward (see my prior post about leadership in extracurricular activities).
Advisors and parents can invite students to reflect on their leadership journeys by keeping portfolios, setting leadership goals at the start of the year, and connecting leadership roles to both academic growth and post-secondary aspirations. What other leadership opportunities for gifted students (or all students) are offered by your school? Post them in the comments below! ~Ann
Teaching for Talent 