Father LeahyFather Edwin Leahy Discusses Innovative Approaches to Education and Student Leadership at St. Benedict’s Prep

In this episode of The Jeff Bradbury Show, Father Edwin Leahy, headmaster of St. Benedict's Prep, shares his journey and the unique community he has fostered at the school. He discusses the challenges of chronic absenteeism, the importance of emotional support for students, and the innovative ways they cultivate leadership among students. Additionally, he highlights the distinctive approach to teacher recruitment and training, emphasizing the need for educators who resonate with the school's mission. The conversation concludes with Father Leahy reflecting on the joy of seeing students graduate and the continuous evolution of the school. If you are a new listener to TeacherCast, we would love to hear from you. Please visit our Contact Page and let us know how we can help you today! Conversation Takeaways

• Father Leahy has been serving at St. Benedict's for over 50 years.
• St. Benedict's Prep has evolved from a boys-only school to a co-educational institution.
• Building community is a key pillar in addressing absenteeism.
• Emotional support is crucial for student success and well-being.
• Counseling services at St. Benedict's are highly developed and tailored to student needs.
• Student leadership is cultivated from a young age through various programs.
• The school emphasizes water safety training for all students.
• Teacher recruitment focuses on inviting individuals who align with the school's values.
• Students play a significant role in the hiring process of teachers.
• Father Leahy looks forward to the annual graduation as a sign of the school's renewal.

Chapters

• 00:00 Father Edwin Leahy's Journey to St. Benedict's Prep
• 02:58 The Unique Community and Structure of St. Benedict's Prep
• 06:04 Addressing Chronic Absenteeism in Schools
• 09:01 Emotional Support and Counseling for Students
• 12:06 Cultivating Student Leadership at St. Benedict's
• 18:05 Innovative Teacher Recruitment and Training
• 25:59 Looking Forward: Graduation and Future Challenges

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About our Guest: Guided by the Benedictine monks of Newark Abbey since 1868, St. Benedict’s Prep is a model in urban education known for its student leadership, counseling program, experiential learning and community. Serving 950+ students in K-12 from in and around Newark, the School was featured on “60 Minutes” in 2016 and in The New York Times in 2021. To learn more, visit sbp.org. Join Our PLN Are you enjoying the TeacherCast Network, please share your thoughts with the world by commenting on Apple Podcasts today? I enjoy reading and sharing your comments on the podcast each week. Let’s Work Together

• Host: Jeff Bradbury