Today our guest is Chad Elsberry, Assistant Director of the Iowa High School Athletic Association and & Co-Executive Director of the Iowa Association of Student Councils. We talk with Chad to about the crucial role of student leadership in high schools. Chad shares how fostering leadership skills in students today can shape their futures and impact the broader community. He highlights the significant influence that student councils have on the culture and climate of schools, enhancing the high school experience for everyone. Additionally, Chad emphasizes the need for school administrations to empower students intentionally to cultivate effective leadership.

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Chad Elsberry, Iowa High School Athletic Association Assistant Director, has worked in sport administration and education fields for more than 25 years. Prior to his work with the IHSAA, he was an editor, writer, and photographer for several newspapers. He has also worked with students as an adjunct faculty member through Des Moines Area Community College (DMACC), teaching in the areas of business, marketing, and visual communications. As part of the IHSAA, he has presented at the NFHS National Conference on the issues of sportsmanship and leadership. He is a member of the National Association of Workshop Directors (NAWD) and has been trained in the Mentors in Violence Prevention (MVP) curriculum and Coaching Boys into Men (CBIM). Elsberry also serves as Co-Executive Director of the Iowa Association of Student Councils. Other areas of responsibility at the IHSAA include sponsorships, sport administration, technology, and student educational services.