Synergy in Action: How Benton Hall Academy Students Live the 7 Habits

By Benton Hall Academy News

At Benton Hall Academy, learning extends beyond individual classrooms. As part of the Little Falls City School District’s ongoing journey as a Leader in Me District, our students practice leadership principles daily through Stephen Covey’s 7 Habits of Highly Effective People.

Recently, our school community witnessed Habit 6: Synergize in full effect. Seeing students step outside their usual classrooms to learn from new teachers and collaborate across grade levels shows us the true power of teamwork. Together, every activity is bigger, brighter, and a lot more fun!

What Are the 7 Habits?

The Leader in Me framework empowers students with core life skills organized into seven actionable habits:

1. Be Proactive (You're in Charge)

Students take initiative and accept responsibility for their actions, attitudes, and choices rather than reacting to circumstances.

2. Begin with the End in Mind (Have a Plan)

Encourages setting goals and planning ahead to map out where they want to go before taking action.

3. Put First Things First (Work First, Then Play)

Focuses on prioritizing time, staying organized, and completing essential responsibilities before moving on to leisure activities.

4. Think Win-Win (Everyone Can Win)

Promotes problem-solving with a mindset that seeks solutions where everyone feels respected and valued.

5. Seek First to Understand, Then to Be Understood (Listen Before You Talk)

Teaches active, empathetic listening to understand others' ideas and perspectives before sharing one's own point of view.

6. Synergize (Together Is Better)

Highlights the power of collaboration. When students combine strengths and work together, the results are greater than what anyone could achieve alone.

7. Sharpen the Saw (Balance Feels Best)

Focuses on self-care and personal well-being across body, mind, heart, and spirit to maintain energy and readiness to learn.

Synergy Across the Halls

During cross-classroom collaboration, BHA students applied these habits firsthand. By pairing up across grade levels, older students stepped up as mentors while younger learners gained confidence exploring fresh perspectives.

By living the 7 Habits every day, Benton Hall Academy continues to nurture empowered leaders ready to shine both inside and outside the classroom.