MADISON – Teachers at Horizon Elementary School found their latest honor to be a ‘sweet’ deal.

As a welcomed reward, Horizon’s faculty enjoyed treats from Crumbl Cookies, thanks to the administration and Madison City Schools staff. They celebrated Horizon’s recertification as a Lighthouse School of Distinction with Leader in Me.

The coveted status of ‘Leader in Me Lighthouse School’ recognizes the attainment of a well-rounded guidance model. Lighthouse schools serve as models to other schools for leadership and mentoring.

Leader in Me procedures transform the entire school population with procedures that notable educators have devised. Students adapt to needed life skills for the 21st century, such as self-reliance, taking initiative, planning, prioritizing time, managing emotions, verbalizing viewpoints and resolving conflicts.

“We are very proud to be a Leader in Me Lighthouse School,” Horizon Principal Rodney Richardson said on the school website. “Our ‘Team of Teachers’ has done a fantastic job of preparing us to move forward as a school with our seven habits. Our vision is ‘to inspire learners and leaders for a lifetime.’ The seven habits will play a key role in helping our entire Horizon family fulfill our vision and mission.”

Academic achievement continues as a predominant focus at Horizon. “Our high curriculum expectations will be aligned with state standards as we seek to ensure that our students master the content presented at each grade level,” Richardson said.

The Leader in Me philosophy relies on Stephen R. Covey’s book, “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People.” Teachers help students to pursue these goals:

* Be proactive. – Each person is in charge and responsible for his or her thoughts and actions.

* Begin with the ending in mind. — Know what you want, value and believe.

* Put first things first. — Prioritize. Do your work first; then, play.

* Think win-win. — Visualize mutual benefits with other people.

* Synergize. — Creatively cooperate with others.

* Seek first to understand – After accomplishing this idea, a person then can hope to be understood.

* Sharpen the saw. — Continuously renew your body, brain, heart and soul.

For more information, visit franklincovey.com/the-7-habits.