Empowering Gladiator Student Leadership

Alhambra, CA

Grant Amount

$5,000

Year Awarded

2025-2026

Project Coordinator

Lynn Greep

Grant Type

Individual

Local Association

Alhambra Teachers Association

Focus Area

Civic Engagement and Community Leadership

About the Project

This project supports a student-led leadership program at Northrup Elementary School aimed at fostering student voice, agency, and engagement through two groups: Gladiator Guards and Ambassadors. Gladiator Guards lead inclusive games on the playground, while Ambassadors gather peer input and develop school and community improvement ideas. In response to student requests, the program will incorporate more art and STEM activities during lunch and after school, expanding learning opportunities beyond the classroom. The initiative encourages collaboration, problem-solving, and responsibility while strengthening school-family relationships through parent volunteers (Gladiator Guardians) and community partnerships. The program aims to cultivate a dynamic and inclusive school culture where students actively shape their environment and build future-ready leadership skills.

Meet the Project Coordinator

Lynn Greep

My name is Lynn Greep, and I currently serve as the Community School Lead at Northrup Elementary in Alhambra, California. A key part of my role involves building strong, meaningful partnerships that connect our school with the resources students need to thrive. This grant was inspired by the voices of our students and the changes they wanted to see in our school. I listened—and with the support of the IFT Grant—our students are now actively shaping their vision. Students are the heart of our school. When they speak up and are truly heard, it helps create a community where everyone feels they belong and can grow.

Alhambra, CA