The Leader in Me program in Clear Creek ISD will expand to Stewart Elementary School in the 2019-20 school year after Kemah City Council approved $10,000 for the program, according to a CCISD news release.

“It is not often that an opportunity like this comes along, having the ability to meaningfully impact hundreds of children by equipping them to become successful and engaged members of our community,” Kemah Mayor Carl Joiner said.

The Leader in Me program at Stewart will affect more than 800 students. The city intends to budget another $40,000 over the next four years for the program, pending annual approval by City Council, according to the release.

“Because of their long history of support and friendship with our school, we have always considered the city of Kemah to be a member of the family,” Stewart Principal Britani Moses said. “We are so honored by the city’s generous commitment to underwrite this empowering program for Stewart Elementary.”

The Leader in Me program prepares students for life after school by teaching them skills related to communication, critical thinking, teamwork, self-discipline, problem solving and more. The program aligns with CCISD’s strategic plan goal to ensure students are prepared to become productive citizens, according to the release.

The district is in its third year of implementing The Leader in Me program at various CCISD campuses, starting with Falcon Pass and Armand Bayou elementary schools. The district’s goal is to have the program at each of CCISD’s more than 40 campuses.

District and campus funds, sponsorships and donations from cities and community organizations fund the program. Such support allows the district to buy coaching and professional learning for staff, student and family materials; measurable results assessments; and program licensing, according to the release.