Part 2 of a 7-day series – Sharing the Positive Impact Grand Blanc High Schoolers are making thanks to the focus and direction of Social Studies teacher, Mr. Todd Babiasz. He oversees the class L.E.A.D. (Leadership Exploration And Development).

A note from Mr. Babiasz:

WHEN I REFLECT BACK ON MY 20 YEARS OF TEACHING,

this past year has been the most incredible experience for my students and myself.  Something different happened this year. The difference was that my students made a real impact.  They dreamed, planned, and implemented a project that changed the lives of all of those who were involved.  Students not only covered content, had discussions, took tests, and completed homework, but they transformed people’s lives, including their own.  My students were no longer just in “school” or in “class”, instead they were finding their passions, gaining new skills, making things happen, tearing down the walls of their classroom and positively impacting the real world. My students did so many things for our community: they build relationships with elementary students who were in need of them, they let our elderly population know they are important, have dignity and are valued, they helped students be more confident with clean clothes so they can get to school more, they brought awareness of animals in need of a home, they helped make a school heart certified and safer for all, and finally, they provided a system for women to get necessary health products that otherwise they may not have. My students have inspired me to step back and get out of their way. When I do step back, they step forward and are changing the world!

Presentation #2 R.U.S.H.

Students Involved:

Gino Andre
Ethan Asperger
Gionni Broughton
Kortez Toles
Mary Hardenburg (Video Editor and Producer)

Four GBHS Varsity Football teammates came together to make a difference in the lives of several elementary school-aged children who needed some extra support. Their goal was to build relationships and teach them life long skills, just like a big brother would. They met them several times over the course of the school to get to know them, play sports, got them dress clothes and taught them how to tie a tie, shake a hand and how to address an adult. For the grand surprise, the kids led the varsity football team out of the tunnel for a Friday night game at The Frank and were presented with authentic GBHS Varsity Football jerseys with their name on it. Skills were learned and most importantly relationships were built!