Showing both leadership and compassion, the students in Monroe's Leadership class made the arrangements to bring music, smiles and conversation to the residents of Caring Hearts senior care home this week.
"My committee had to find a place nearby that would like support from students," said eighth grader Valerie M. Pictured above. "We searched online for some place close, and I phoned the manager of Caring Hearts. We worked out ways we could be supportive, and scheduled our visit with them."
Wearing smiles, school uniforms and colorful tu-tus, students from the school's Leadership class and the Associated Student Body (ASB) joined the residents in making Valentine's Day bracelets, talking about school, and listening to a piano solo performed by one of the students. 
"Teaching the value of giving back to the community is important to us at Monroe," said Principal Gilbert Rodriguez. "At Monroe, Leadership students gain more than gratification from helping others. They also learn how to plan and coordinate events and activities, how to identify resources they need, and how to communicate and interact with diverse groups of people. They really represent our school well."