The Middle School’s new student council is already busy at work, meeting with faculty advisors and discussing plans for the upcoming year. First on the agenda: feedback boxes for each grade, to encourage students to submit ideas and opinions on how to enhance life in the Middle School.
“At this age, students have great ideas, and they are ready to be leaders,” says Jacqui Pennini, Middle School dean of students and one of the council’s faculty advisors. “We began the student council this year because we wanted to foster that independence. In the Upper School, so much programming is student-run. We felt this would be a good way to prepare Middle School students for what they will encounter in the Upper School.” Sharon Mathieu, Grade 8 social studies teacher, is the council’s other faculty advisor.
After a round of excellent speeches, eight students were elected by their peers. Grade 8 holds four leadership positions, and two students each from Grade 6 and Grade 7 represent their class.
President: Malia C.
Vice President: Zach A.
Secretary: Cori D.
School Spirit and Activities Coordinator: Jenna P.
Class reps:
Grade 7: Nikhil P. & Kayla M.
Grade 6: Jack B. & Abby B.
Ms. Pennini says a major goal that emerged in the council’s planning is getting students involved in community service on a more regular basis. Other goals include encouraging integrity, raising diversity awareness, and fostering school spirit.