Houston Methodist Clear Lake last week unveiled it will donate $500,000 to the Clear Creek Education Foundation to support Clear Creek ISD's The Leader in Me program, which is expanding in 14 schools over the next five years. The program teaches leadership and life skills to students and empowers them with the mindset that every student can be a leader. This creates a culture that leads to academic, behavioral and social improvements of participating students, according to a press release. Through CCEF funding, Falcon Pass Elementary and Armand Bayou Elementary schools were the first two CCISD schools to introduce The Leader In Me program, and both campuses have seen growth in their academic performance. Houston Methodist Clear Lake's donation will allow an estimated 13,000 additional students experience the program, according to the release. “The impact of Houston Methodist’s generous commitment will be both measurable and immeasurable for years to come,” Superintendent Greg Smith said in the release. “Our students will be even better-equipped to achieve their full potential, build the skillset necessary for success in the 21st century and access more opportunities for a better life.” Houston Methodist Clear Lake believes strongly in the program. “The Leader In Me cultivates the qualities and attitudes employers look for in today’s highly competitive environment,” said Dan Newman, Houston Methodist Clear Lake Hospital CEO, in the release. “Self-management, independent thinking, problem-solving and other important skills like these empower our students with the tools they need to achieve success. I applaud CCISD’s innovation and its commitment to adopt The Leader In Me. Houston Methodist Clear Lake is proud to play a role in providing this unique opportunity to potential future leaders.” The district plans to continue expanding the program until it is implemented at all CCISD campuses. Those interested in supporting The Leader in Me can contact CCEF Executive Director Deborah Laine at 281-284-0031 or [email protected].