Dr. Padilla Encourages NFA West Scholars to Reflect on Leadership

Scholars at Newburgh Free Academy’s West Campus heard from Superintendent, Dr. Roberto Padilla as part of their guest speaker series.

“Consider that you have the potential and that you are worthy. Consider that the answer to your success is in this room. Consider that you are that answer.” Dr. Roberto Padilla, Superintendent for the Newburgh Enlarged City School District

Dr. Padilla encouraged scholars to think about what leadership means to them. He then highlighted a series of leaders, all with one thing in common – their young age. Dr. Padilla highlighted that leadership is courageous, a gift, is progressive, and is often courageous. Dr. Padilla highlighted Malala, the Parkland teens, Evan Spiegel and Bobby Murphy, the founders of Snapchat, and a young boy who wrote a dozen best seller books while terminally ill. All those who were highlighted are the same age or just a few years younger or older than the scholars in the room and they have made life changing impacts on the world we live in today.

Leadership as innate ability and leadership as a developed skill was discussed with the scholars. Dr. Padilla then charged the scholars with reflecting on how they are a leader.

Dr. Padilla encouraged scholars “to see yourself as individuals who have potential for greatness and are worthy of greatness. The answer is in this room - you just have to believe it.”

Scholars prepared questions for Dr. Padilla. David Winters, 9th grade asked: What lead you to your ultimate path that you’re on now? Kayla Solis, 12th grade asked: What was it like growing up in Newburgh?

ATTENTION: Are your scholars or colleagues doing something great? Please contact the district Communications Team at communications@necsd.net. We’d love to visit your class or event and/or post your pictures and recap to highlight the amazing accomplishments throughout our district!