Herons Step Into Leadership at NWAIS Conference
The Marylhurst School is committed to nurturing young leaders who embrace inclusivity, critical thinking, and social justice. Five middle school students, Bailey, Bebel, Hadley, Josie, and Molly, embarked on a transformative leadership journey at the Looking In and Out: Learning and Leading Across Difference conference in March. This overnight student leadership retreat, sponsored by NWAIS (Northwest Association of Independent Schools) and held at Black Diamond Camp in Auburn, Washington, brought together students from across the region to build relationships, explore identity, and develop leadership skills.
The experience pushed our students outside of their comfort zones, deepening their understanding of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). One of the key takeaways from the conference was the Change Equation:
Dissatisfaction x Vision x What’s Working x First Steps > Resistance
Students explored how meaningful change requires identifying problems, envisioning solutions, recognizing strengths, and taking the first steps. One group focused on how shared spaces are treated, sparking discussions on community care and responsibility.
A presentation on everyday leadership particularly resonated with students, inspiring them to consider the small ways they can be leaders daily. The Herons took this to heart and volunteered to clean the dining hall after meals, a simple but powerful act of stewardship. They did this because they saw the need and took the initiative. “It made me think about how I can be an everyday hero in my school.”
In a thought-provoking activity, students shared aspects of their identities with their group. Their peers then “pretended to lose their memory” and described them back. “It helped me understand how others see me and what stands out about me.” It was powerful to actively listen to others, and it was even more powerful for the kids to hear themselves reflected back to them.
Students also participated in affinity spaces focused on race, ethnicity, gender, and neurotype, helping them deepen their understanding of self-perception and belonging. These spaces offered opportunities to explore both the visible and less visible aspects of identity—the parts of ourselves that are easily recognized by others, and those that are often felt more than seen. In doing so, students developed a richer sense of who they are and how they connect with others in the community.
While the experience was exciting, it challenged students to step into brave spaces. “It was scary to share my thoughts in front of 140 people, but they encouraged us to be brave and take chances. The ones who step into brave spaces gain more.”
An exercise in writing six-word memoirs pushed students to share their identities with attendees from other schools. Many felt nervous but quickly realized that shared vulnerability created a connection.
In addition to presentations and activities, students attended various interactive sessions designed to build leadership skills and teamwork. Some favorites included:
"Awkward Situations and How to Handle Them" – Strategies for navigating difficult conversations.
"Who Are You?" – An exploration of identity and self-reflection.
"River Crossing Team-Building Challenge" – A high-energy activity where students worked together to transport their team across a space using limited resources.
The students shared the impact of these sessions: "I learned I’m good at quickly observing and adjusting the plan," and "I learned that every role on a team is necessary and important."
One of the most profound takeaways for students was being surrounded by peers who shared their values. “Everyone was engaged, quiet, and really wanted to learn. It felt like I had found my people.” The conference reinforced the importance of a community that values learning, reflection, and growth.
Final Reflections
Inspired by their experience, the Herons brainstormed ways to make The Marylhurst School more inclusive and connected:
Build a Gaga Ball Pit – A fun and engaging way to bring students together across grade levels.
Host Student-Led Meetings – Sharing conference takeaways with school leadership and peers.
Create an Anonymous Reporting System – A safe way for students to voice concerns without fear.
Improve Accessibility – Exploring ramps or elevator options for easier access to all areas of the school.
Affinity Groups – While our school is small, students suggested partnering with other schools to create shared affinity spaces.
For many, the conference exceeded expectations, leaving them with new friendships, a deeper sense of self, and a drive to shape their community. "I didn’t know what to expect going in, but this experience blew me away."
We are incredibly proud of our Herons for stepping into brave spaces, challenging themselves, and bringing back ideas to make Marylhurst an even stronger, more inclusive community.
