Republic High School has achieved a historic milestone by becoming the first high school in Missouri to earn Lighthouse Certification from Leader in Me. This designation recognizes schools that have achieved outstanding results in school culture, leadership and academics through the implementation of the Leader in Me framework.
Lighthouse Certification is a highly respected recognition awarded to schools that demonstrate exemplary implementation of the Leader in Me process, which is based on the principles found in The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen R. Covey. Earning this distinction affirms Republic High School’s commitment to empowering students with the leadership and life skills needed to thrive in today’s world.
"This certification is not only a celebration of our students’ growth but also a reflection of the dedication our staff has shown in developing a leadership culture that supports both academic success and personal growth," said Dr. Matt Pearce, Superintendent of Republic Schools. “Being the first high school in Missouri to achieve this designation makes it even more meaningful.”
Leader in Me schools that achieve Lighthouse Certification are recognized for creating a leadership environment where staff and students consistently apply leadership principles, set and achieve personal and academic goals, and foster a sense of shared responsibility and community. The certification process includes a rigorous evaluation of measurable results, sustainable systems, and student empowerment.
“Leader in Me is a huge district initiative that is an opportunity for our students to have a voice,” said Dr. John Thompson, RHS Principal. “Students are working together with us as adults to integrate goals for our building and really give them a vision of our school and community.”
Republic High School has implemented Leader in Me for the last eight years. The journey to Lighthouse Certification has included intentional focus on leadership development, student voice and data-driven progress monitoring. Through student-led initiatives, leadership roles, goal-setting practices and ongoing staff collaboration, the school has cultivated a thriving culture where every student is encouraged to lead their own learning.
Watch the video below to see how students and staff at Republic High School are living out leadership every day.
This is the second school in the Republic School District to receive Lighthouse Certification. Sweeny Elementary became a Lighthouse Certified school in 2019 and was recertified in 2024.
For more information about Lighthouse Certification and Leader in Me, visit