Finding Their Voice: Student Leadership and the Lighthouse Program at Pollocksville Elementary
In the latest episode of the Filling Station Podcast, host Mary Ann LeRay welcomes two special guests from Pollocksville Elementary School: Easton Cook, a fifth-grade student and member of the student Lighthouse team, and Megan Matticola, a first-year teacher and the school’s Lighthouse coordinator.
Together, they share how the Lighthouse program is empowering students to discover their voice, develop leadership skills, and take meaningful ownership of their school community. Rooted in the Leader in Me framework and inspired by The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People, the program helps students apply timeless principles like responsibility, teamwork, and service in real, tangible ways.
Easton explains what it means to be part of the Lighthouse team — a student-led group with representatives from each grade who help shape school decisions. From contributing ideas on a “Find Your Voice” wall to organizing service projects like Valentine’s Day cards for seniors and fundraising efforts that support local causes, students are learning that leadership is something you practice, not something you wait to be given.
Megan shares her perspective as an educator guiding the program, describing how leadership habits are woven into daily classroom life and reinforced at home through parent communication and shared activities. She also discusses the school’s preparation for an upcoming Lighthouse Review and Leadership Day, where students will lead tours, share their projects, and welcome community members into the school.
This episode is a powerful reminder that leadership can begin early, community involvement matters deeply, and when students are trusted with responsibility, they rise to the occasion.
