Reader’s Corner: Highly effective teens at Reeds Spring Middle School

Many people are familiar with “7 Habits of Highly Effective People,” Stephen Covey’s 1989 business and self-help book that has become a classic for nurturing personal growth and change. Covey’s focus on character has guided many leaders to establish successful value systems in their lives and businesses. 

What some of us, including this writer, didn’t realize, however, is that Sean Covey, Stephen’s son, picked up the torch several years later with “7 Habits of Highly Effective Teens.” Written for a younger audience, the later book is a great way to instill those same values such as putting first things first, looking for win-win opportunities, and seeking to understand before seeking to be understood, in teenagers to set them up for success in life. 

Reeds Spring Middle School is encouraging students in those principles by challenging them to read the book and focus on applying one of its lessons each month. The Leaders of the Pack (Student Council at RSMS) is reading the book together, and all students receive digital lessons, participate in lunchtime activities, and take part in a monthly motivational assembly on one of the habits. 

According to RSMS teacher Rob Marshall, the book “is an excellent resource to guide students in taking steps to be more successful in everyday life.” 

Thanks to Reeds Spring leadership for this practical approach that encourages not only reading, but student interaction to reinforce what has been read! If your teens haven’t read this book, it’s available at major book retailers and would make a great discussion starter for family time or other youth events as well.