At Lake Lure Classical Academy, students are encouraged to learn not only in the classroom, but also through meaningful engagement with the community around them. The school’s Student Ambassador Program is a powerful example of how young people can develop leadership skills while contributing to the town they call home.
Student ambassadors serve as a vital link between the school and the Town of Lake Lure. As liaisons, ambassadors are prepared to represent their school and serve the community whenever an opportunity arises. These students are selected by their teachers as outstanding examples of the values the school upholds, including responsibility, respect, and integrity.
Participation in the program offers students hands-on experience in professionalism and leadership. Ambassadors are coached in essential skills such as public speaking, networking, and effective communication—tools that will serve them well far beyond their school years. Through these experiences, students gain confidence while learning how to interact thoughtfully with peers, educators, town officials, and community members.
Throughout the year, student ambassadors actively participate in town events such as Arbor Day, Veterans Day, Memorial Day, and the annual Lighting Up Lake Lure celebration. They also take part in community gatherings like the local music festival and networking opportunities such as hosting a booth at the FAB Festival. These events allow students to represent their school with pride while building strong connections within the community.
Service is another cornerstone of the program. Ambassadors have contributed through projects such as helping clean and prepare the school over the summer and assisting with school tours for prospective families. These acts of service reinforce the idea that students play an important role in maintaining and supporting the places where they learn and live.
Mrs. Erin Harper, who oversees the program, says its foundation is rooted in student pride and love for the school. “The student ambassadors program is made up of students who love this school. These students are proud to go to school here. I wanted to provide an opportunity for the students who love this school to show their love and pride,” she shared.
As an educator, Mrs. Harper emphasizes the importance of preparing students for life beyond elementary, middle school, and high school. “I pride myself on teaching professionalism and preparing students for the real world. This program allows me to work with students beyond their school journey to hone the skills needed in the rapidly changing world around them,” she said. Reflecting on the students’ growth, she added, “It is always a proud moment to see the students take pride in their work representing their school. The skills they are learning are invaluable.”
The Student Ambassador Program reinforces an important lesson: young people are not just future leaders—they are leaders today. By encouraging students to contribute to their school and town, Lake Lure Classical Academy fosters a strong sense of responsibility, pride, and community connection.
Through service, leadership, and community engagement, student ambassadors are helping build a stronger Lake Lure while developing skills that will serve them throughout their lives. Their work reflects the belief that when students are empowered to serve, the entire community benefits.
To learn more about the school and its programs supporting its mission of fostering “critical thinking, civic responsibility, and virtue for all,” visit llcharter.org. To schedule a school tour, call (828) 625-9292. Organizations interested in having student ambassadors participate in community events are encouraged to contact the school to learn how we can support your efforts.