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T.H.E. Leadership Academy: A School Where Every Student Leads and Belongs

Developing Leaders, Committed to Growth

Vista USD Superintendent Dr. Matt Doyle with students from T.H.E. Leadership Academy
Vista USD Superintendent Dr. Matt Doyle with students from T.H.E. Leadership Academy (Image courtesy of Vista Unified School District)

At T.H.E. Leadership Academy, leadership isn’t just a concept—it’s a way of life. From transitional kindergarten through fifth grade, students are encouraged to take initiative, pursue their passions, and find meaningful ways to connect with their school community. Rooted in the nationally recognized Leader in Me framework and inspired by The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, our school is committed to growing confident, capable leaders—one child at a time.

A Culture of Student Voice and Empowerment
We believe that learning is most powerful when students are actively engaged and invested in their experiences. That’s why at T.H.E. Leadership Academy, students don’t just attend school—they help shape it.

Whether it's the Minecraft Club, Embroidery Club, Math Club, Yearbook Club, Bike Club, or Slime Club, all of these groups were created by students based on their own interests. If a student has an idea, they’re encouraged to bring it to life. One group even turned their love of slime into a service project, selling their creations to raise money for a local cancer infusion center. After the donation, they visited the center to see firsthand the impact of their work—an experience that blends leadership with compassion.

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Relationships That Matter
What truly sets our school apart is our unwavering commitment to connection. Every face is seen, every voice is heard, and every story matters.


Principal Kim Morton shares, “We pride ourselves on knowing the story behind every kid. We believe every student deserves a connection to school—not just through academics, but through relationships, passions, and purpose.”

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To ensure this, staff members track student connection data, focusing on relationships, engagement, and extracurricular involvement. Teachers ask: Do I know three personal things about this student? Do I understand their culture, their family, their story? For students not yet connected, we take action—creating opportunities, offering invitations, and opening doors.


Our efforts are working. According to a recent survey, 98% of our families say they feel welcomed, supported, and part of a caring school community.

Student-Led Showcases: Leadership in Action
One of the highlights of the year is our annual Leadership Day, where the spotlight belongs to our students. From giving speeches to performing skits, leading campus tours, and sharing their learning journeys—every element is student-run.

“It’s one of the most joyful events we host,” says Principal Morton. “As a principal, I don’t speak at all—our students take center stage. It’s an incredible celebration of their voice, growth, and confidence.”

More Than a School—A Community
At T.H.E. Leadership Academy, culture isn’t something we post on a wall—it’s something you feel the moment you step onto campus. It's in the warm greetings between staff and students, the inclusive clubs that welcome all, and the shared goals that keep us moving forward as a unified team.

“Our culture is rooted in connection,” Morton explains. “When every child and adult feels like they belong, that’s when the magic happens.”

From student clubs to parent workshops and school-wide events, our community thrives on collaboration, curiosity, and care. T.H.E. Leadership Academy is more than a place to learn—it’s a place to grow, lead, and belong.

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