The job of a lifeguard is all about being observant. They
spend their time scanning the water, always watching, always aware. They’re not
just looking for someone in trouble—they’re looking for the little signs that
something might go wrong before it does. They see the swimmer starting to get
tired, the group that’s pushing the limits, the kid drifting too far from the
edge. Lifeguards prevent problems before they happen. Their quiet vigilance
keeps everyone safe.
In a lot of ways, that same idea applies to life in a
school. Think about it—our classrooms and hallways are kind of like the pool.
Everyone’s moving at their own pace, some confident, some struggling just to
stay afloat. When we act like lifeguards, we look out for each other. Teachers
check in on students. Students notice when a classmate seems off. We pay
attention, not because we’re nosy, but because we care enough to make sure no
one feels like they’re drowning.
And when we do see someone sinking a bit, we step in.
Lifeguards don’t hesitate—they move to lift someone up. In a school, that might
mean helping a friend who’s behind on work, giving a kind word to someone who’s
stressed, or even just sitting with someone who looks like they could use some
company. Small gestures, but they make a big difference. Those are the moments
that define who we are as a community.
This time of year can be especially tough for our seniors.
College applications, tests, practices, games, and everything else—they’re
juggling so much. It’s easy to feel like the water’s rising a little too fast.
That’s when we all need to be lifeguards—teachers offering support, classmates
encouraging each other, and families reminding them that it’s okay to come up
for air.
Imagine how strong our community could be if everyone took
on that lifeguard mindset. If every hallway, classroom, and locker room was
filled with people looking out for each other. No one would feel alone.
Everyone would know someone’s watching out for them. That’s the kind of school
I want to be part of—one where we all help each other stay afloat, and maybe
even swim a little farther.
This thought originated from a leadership seminar I attended