Cabot School

At Cabot School, middle school students are discovering the power of leadership and self-direction through Cabot Leads, an innovative program that connects student interests with authentic work experiences. Students explore potential roles on campus and in the community, learning how their skills, talents, and passions can make a difference.

As part of the program, each student selects three jobs they would like to apply for—ranging from Ice Rink Manager and Library Assistant to Gardens & Grounds or Elementary Math Buddy. Students write professional cover letters that highlight their skills, interests, and work habits, explaining why they are a good fit for each role. They then participate in interviews to showcase their initiative, creativity, and ability to articulate their goals.

Once placements are finalized, students work under the guidance of adult mentors for 30–60 minutes each week. Some roles, such as planting or maintaining school gardens, require extra involvement during busy seasons. Along the way, students maintain portfolios that document their learning, including journal reflections, photos, and examples of work. These portfolios provide a concrete record of growth in communication, responsibility, problem-solving, and leadership skills.

Cabot Leads not only empowers students to take ownership of their learning but also strengthens connections between students, faculty, and the wider community. Families and community members are invited to participate in supporting this program, offering mentorship, ideas, and guidance. Through this hands-on experience, Cabot students gain confidence, practice professional skills, and develop a sense of agency that will serve them in school and beyond.

Sample Proficiencies:

• Communication: Students clearly express ideas in writing and speaking, organizing information logically, tailoring their message for a specific audience, and practicing professional skills such as job interviews.
• Habits of Work: Students take responsibility for their learning by planning, following through, reflecting, and applying feedback to improve.
• Writing: Students write clear, organized, and purposeful text, using strong vocabulary and proper formatting to create professional documents such as a business cover letter.
• Collaboration & Leadership: Students work effectively with peers and mentors, taking initiative, listening to others, and contributing ideas to achieve shared goals in real-world projects.