Giving Tuesday at Trivium Prep

At Trivium Preparatory, leadership transcends mere authority; it embodies a deep commitment to nurturing an environment where each student can truly flourish and emerge as self-reliant individuals. Here, a great leader is not one who clings to power but rather someone whose presence becomes a guiding light, empowering others to embrace their own journeys. At the heart of this philosophy are dedicated educators like Mrs. MacLeod, who embody the spirit of growth and compassion.

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Mrs. MacLeod joined Trivium in 2017, drawn not just by the promise of academic excellence but by the profound sense of community and healing it offered after a devastating experience at her previous school, which was shaken by a tragic shooting. Though her confidence was shaken, she chose to embrace the warmth and support of Great Hearts Academies, inspired by the joy her own child found in kindergarten and first grade. “There is so much joy at Trivium,” she reflects, capturing the essence of a place committed to “building hearts” as much as minds.

With a rich and diverse teaching background, Mrs. MacLeod has inspired students from kindergarten to 12th grade, igniting a passion for drama and the arts that resonates deeply within her. Her journey began at the tender age of five, when she first discovered the thrill of performing in church plays, spurred on by the radiant talent of her sister in high school productions. This early love for drama shapes her teaching philosophy, where she believes every student should have the freedom to be their own director. She encourages her students to step out of their comfort zones, fostering an environment where they feel both challenged and supported.

Mrs. MacLeod ‘s heart beats strongly for classical education, which she believes creates a safe yet exhilarating framework for students to explore their potential. Mrs. MacLeod recalls her colleague Heather Washburn stating that the Great Hearts experience is playing soccer on a rooftop. The idea of playing soccer on a rooftop is exhilarating, yet carefully contained within safe boundaries. These boundaries allow students to take bold risks without the fear of falling. This delicate balance of freedom and structure is essential in cultivating the next generation of leaders.

Beyond the classroom, her vision for her students knows no bounds. She aspires to integrate Trivium’s drama program into the International Thespian Society, paving the way for students to earn scholarships and recognition through the Arizona Interscholastic Association (AIA). Watching older students mentor their younger peers fills her with joy, as it nurtures a community rooted in collaboration and mutual growth. “Iron sharpens iron,” she often says, underscoring the importance of peer mentorship and the transformative power of diverse perspectives.

Mrs. Macleod’s guiding principle, “no growth, no purpose,” resonates deeply within the Trivium community. She challenges her students to embrace discomfort as a catalyst for growth, ensuring they feel supported every step of the way. Hearing her words echoed back by her students as they share advice and encouragement with one another is a source of immense pride for her, illustrating the profound impact of her leadership and the bonds they create.

At Trivium Preparatory, leadership is about more than instruction; it is about weaving a legacy of empowerment and love. With educators like Mrs. MacLeod at the helm, the school nurtures a generation of leaders ready to make their mark on the world, equipped not just with knowledge, but with the confidence and compassion to inspire others—just as they have been inspired. In this nurturing environment of creativity and support, the leaders of tomorrow are not just taught; they are cultivated, blossoming into their true selves.

Do you have a story or know of a story that you would like to see featured at Great Hearts? Please contact jason.moore@greathearts.org.