Dear MGRS Families,

Mount Greylock Regional School is excited to launch The Waymakers Network, a new student leadership and mentorship initiative that puts our district values of Integrity, Perseverance, and Responsibility into action.

Developed in partnership with The Equity Imperative and Williams College, The Waymakers Network will prepare up to 20 MGRSD 11th- and 12th-grade high school students to become leaders who help strengthen relationships, belonging, and positive school culture across our district.

What Will Waymakers Do?

Selected high school students will participate in nine one-hour training sessions led by trained Williams College student mentors in partnership with MGRSD staff. Through interactive learning, practice, and coaching, students will develop skills in:

• Peer conflict mediation and problem-solving;

• Restorative conversations and circle facilitation;

• Active listening, empathy, and communication;

• Mentoring younger students;

• Public speaking and student-led assemblies; and

• Leadership grounded in Integrity, Perseverance, and Responsibility.

Beginning later this fall, trained Waymakers will have opportunities to put these skills into practice by supporting restorative circles, helping peers navigate appropriate conflicts, mentoring elementary and middle school students, and participating in school-wide activities and assemblies. MGRSD staff will coordinate and supervise these opportunities throughout the school year.

Who Can Become a Waymaker?

Every MGRSD high school student is encouraged to consider applying.

Students do not need previous leadership experience, perfect grades, or experience with restorative practices. We are particularly interested in students who want to see positive change in how students experience school and how they treat and support one another.

We recognize that leadership looks different in different students. Some students are confident public speakers. Others are thoughtful listeners, trusted friends, creative problem-solvers, or students who are ready for an opportunity to discover strengths they may not yet recognize in themselves.

What Is the Commitment?

Students selected for The Waymakers Network will participate in nine one-hour training sessions and periodic Waymaker activities throughout the school year. A rotating schedule will be used so that students can participate in meaningful leadership opportunities while balancing their academic and other commitments.

Throughout the initiative, participating students will be supported by MGRSD staff advisors, trained Williams College student mentors, and The Equity Imperative.

Interested in Learning More?

We will share information about the student application, program schedule, and selection process with students and families. We encourage you to talk with your high school student about whether becoming a Waymaker might be an opportunity for them to learn, grow, and contribute to their school community.

We look forward to partnering with our students and families as we continue building a school community where the values of Integrity, Perseverance, and Responsibility are not simply something we talk about, but something we practice together.

Sincerely,
Offices of the Principal and Superintendent