In October, Delcastle Technical High leadership advisors organized the "Build It Better: Community Edition" leadership conference, a day dedicated to empowering student leaders through teamwork, collaboration, and service. This event marked the beginning of a meaningful new partnership with the Vero Assisted Living Facility in Newark, DE, where Delcastle students will take part in an intergenerational Day of Service on December 3rd.
The Day of Service was initiated by Delcastle alumna and former Student Council President, Ms. Nyla Thompson, Dental Assisting '19. Through Nyla’s efforts alongside Mrs. Lisa Bainbridge (Student Council), Mrs. Sarah Dunn (National Honor Society), Dr. Lynnette Hollis (Educators Rising and Leading Ladies), and Mr. Anthony Tiberi (Student Activities, SkillsUSA), this project will bring together Delcastle students and Vero residents to share time and stories through service activities that build lasting connections across generations.
Building Leaders through Collaboration and Insight
Student leaders from Delcastle’s Student Council, National Honor Society, SkillsUSA, HOSA, Educators Rising, and Leading Ladies participated in the "Build It Better: Community Edition" Conference, where they explored the key components of effective teamwork. During a workshop on the “5 Dysfunctions of a Team,” students reflected on the importance of trust, conflict resolution, and a shared commitment to their group’s goals.
For Marcos Leon Gonzalez '26, of SkillsUSA, this discussion highlighted the importance of strong communication and respect. “[I realized] how important it is to take everyone's input into consideration when making decisions.”
Melissa Wilson '27, the current Student Council President, also appreciated this focus on collaboration. “I realized that even when there are disagreements, we’re all working toward the same goal. We need conflict. Without conflict, your team can't grow."
A hands-on “Marshmallow Tower” challenge added a practical component to these lessons. Miguel Burgos '26 from Student Council shared, “It allowed my team to actively brainstorm on what to do and regardless of the outcome, it brought us closer and allowed us to collaborate more efficiently throughout the rest of the conference.” Ameir Rogers '25 of the National Honor Society added, “You have to help each other. You can’t do it alone. The exercise taught us that working as a team is key to reaching our goals.”
Finding Inspiration from an Alumna’s Journey
Students were especially inspired by Nyla Thompson, who shared her journey from student leader to community advocate. Her story demonstrated the lasting impact of Delcastle’s leadership programs and the potential to create positive change in the community.
“When Nyla introduced herself...there was a standard to make a difference in our community,” said Brigette Castaneda '27, Student Council. Miguel Burgos echoed this sentiment, adding, “Knowing she went through the student leader experience like us and is still giving back—it’s inspiring.”
Melissa Wilson, seeing Nyla’s example, was motivated to carry forward the legacy of community involvement. “I love the work Nyla is doing, how she thinks outside of the box and how inclusive she is."
Looking Ahead to “Bridging Generations: A Day of Service"
The conference wrapped up with students brainstorming ideas for the Day of Service, where they’ll connect with Vero residents through activities and shared conversations. Marjani Graves '27 of Leading Ladies noted, “Making sure everybody’s ideas were heard and finding ways to combine them was a challenge, but it brought us together.” Kyle Stetter '25 of National Honor Society agreed, saying, “I am most excited to be able to get out in the community and really show everyone that Delcastle students are here to serve the people and to bring our community closer together no matter the mission statement.”
Excitement is building for the upcoming Day of Service. “Seeing all of our planning and ideas come to life is what I’m most looking forward to,” shared Marjani. Brigette Castaneda added, “I am most excited to be able to give out to those in need and to be able to make a difference. Also most excited to meet and create connections with the residents who will help us create the finished project.”
The Delcastle community is eager to see the impact of this meaningful project. This partnership between students and residents of Vero reflects Delcastle’s commitment to empowering students to Serve, Empower, and Transform their communities—creating leaders who bring positive change wherever they go.