The gymnasium at Sellers Middle School buzzed with excitement as students filed in to the sound of the school band and cheers from the cheerleaders. Staff and students proudly welcomed Superintendent Dr. Ricardo López as the first guest in the school’s new Leadership Speaker Series, which kicked off on the first Friday in September.

As Garland ISD’s Leadership Magnet campus, the Sellers campus administrators created the series to inspire students and help them explore what it means to lead with purpose.

Principal David Guzman addressed the students, saying, “You have the distinction of being the first group to witness our Leadership Speaker Series. Once a month, a leader from the community will come speak to you about leadership and how they became successful.”

Dr. López, who oversees 68 schools and 52,000 students in GISD, shared stories from his journey and emphasized that leadership is built on character, confidence, and persistence, not titles.

“A title does not make you a leader,” Dr. López told students. “Leadership starts with character. People turn to those they trust when they need help. Do the right thing, even when no one is watching.”

He also emphasized that confidence stems from tackling challenges, learning from mistakes, and persevering. 

“Life is like riding a bike. You’re going to fall. You’re going to scrape yourself. But when you get back on, you gain confidence and master your craft,” he continued.

His message resonated with students, who listened closely and reflected on their own experiences with growth and perseverance.

Students were engaged throughout the session and enjoyed interacting with their superintendent. Dr. López called the visit a great way to end the week.

Building on the excitement from the kickoff event, the Leadership Speaker Series will continue every first Friday of the month with new guest speakers. 

Beyond the monthly talks, Guzman is planning hands-on experiences for each grade level. Details are still being finalized, but he aims to have sixth graders attend a school board meeting, seventh graders visit the Garland City Hall, and eighth graders travel to the Texas State Capitol Building in Austin.

Through the series, Sellers students are learning about leadership in action, preparing to make an impact in their schools, communities, and beyond.