Insight: Compassionate Leadership at Eastside Prep

By Paul Hagen, Director of Student Well-Being

One of the things I appreciate most about Eastside Prep is the way leadership emerges in so many forms—and from so many students. Whether it’s in a formal role or through small everyday actions, EPS students consistently find ways to step up, support one another, and help shape our school community.

Our Student Leadership Council (SLC) helps plan school-wide events and advocate for student interests. Upper School students mentor Middle Schoolers through our Peer Mentors program, creating meaningful cross-divisional connections. Seniors act as buddies for our incoming 5th graders, engaging in fun community-building activities including an upcoming service project next Friday. Captains on athletic teams lead by example both on and off the field. In the arts, students serve as assistant directors or crew leads, learning to guide their peers through creative collaboration. Others lead Affinity Spaces, coordinate club activities, or simply offer kindness and support to a peer who needs encouragement. These diverse opportunities allow students to develop their voice, take initiative, and contribute in ways that reflect their passions and values.

As we prepare for EBC Week, we’re reminded that leadership at EPS isn’t limited to titles or programs. During EBC Week, every student has the opportunity to lead and we expect all students to lean into those leadership opportunities.

Our Mission calls on us to Lead Compassionately, and this is especially important during EBC Week. Compassionate leadership is about much more than being nice—it’s about taking action to care for others. On a long hike, it might look like slowing your pace to walk alongside someone who’s struggling. During a group project, it could mean helping the team stay organized or making sure everyone feels heard. Sometimes it’s as simple—and powerful—as noticing when someone’s having a hard day and checking in.

EBC Week is designed to expand students’ horizons, challenge their thinking, and build a deeper sense of empathy. It’s also a chance for students to discover that leadership isn’t about being in charge—it’s about being aware, engaged, and ready to make a difference. We can’t wait to see how our students rise to that challenge!