Queen Creek Unified School District (QCUSD) is committed to nurturing student success through academic achievement, character development, and leadership opportunities at every grade level. At Jack Barnes Elementary (JBE), this commitment comes to life as students are encouraged to lead, serve, and grow in meaningful ways.
Leadership development is embedded into the culture at JBE. Whether through the Leading Out Loud (LOL) Club, National Elementary Honor Society (NEHS), or the Principal’s Advisory Committee, students are given platforms to voice their ideas, support their peers, and make a positive impact on their school community.
These opportunities help students develop skills that will serve them far beyond their elementary years; skills like collaboration, problem-solving, empathy, and confidence.
Sixth graders at Jack Barnes shared how their experiences at school have helped them grow as leaders:
“I show leadership by making people feel alright to speak up, even when they’re scared to, and by making good ideas for the school, not just for me. The best thing about Jack Barnes is you’re never feeling alone. You always have friends or people who can help you here.”
Students shared that JBE helps them feel welcomed, valued, and supported—not just in their learning, but in their everyday experiences at school. This supportive atmosphere creates a strong sense of connection and belonging among students.
“The teachers are really nice, and they help me understand my work and help me do the best I can,” said a sixth grader. “People should go to Jack Barnes because it’s a really good school, and Jack Barnes has good teachers that can help the students do their best.”
One student shared how helping others is a key part of their leadership journey:
“I show leadership by including people with activities, and I help people. If people need help with work, I help them… We all get to have fun, and we all have a great experience and get to learn.”
At JBE, leadership isn’t limited to formal roles. It’s built into everyday actions and interactions. From helping a new student make friends, to encouraging a classmate during a tough assignment, students are empowered to lead with kindness, compassion, and courage.
“I show leadership because when some people need help in class and they’re stuck on a question, I go help them,” shared one student. “The best thing about Jack Barnes is how easy it is to make friends here. Everybody is so kind and open.”
“If there’s a new kid at school, we want to help them find at least a friend or two,” said another student. “My first couple days, I was able to make so many friends. It’s so nice here.”
QCUSD continues to prioritize student voice and leadership at every school site, helping students develop the skills and confidence to lead not just now—but for life. Jack Barnes Elementary is a shining example of how leadership starts early and grows with the right support.
As one student summed it up best:
“A kid should come to Jack Barnes because this place is open for many different types of kids. And there’s always one friend for anyone who comes here.”