The Principal Student Council allows students to make a direct impact on the school community. With the combined effort of students and the principal, the council meets routinely to discuss and solve concerns in the community.
Through meetings and continued effort, the council identified two main concerns last year.
“The council and student body as a whole identified two areas of need. One was having the ability to submit suggestions directly to administration for their review and the other was the lack of inclusion/equity amongst the campus,” said Principal Cina Abedzadeh.
To focus on the first area of need, members constructed a suggestion box that allows students to submit ideas for improving the school. Located in the A building of campus, this year is the first official year the box will be deployed. Along with the physical box, a digital version will also be available for students to submit their ideas.
“For this year, I’m excited to see (the suggestion box) go live. We worked so hard on it. I hope it can give us some good suggestions on what to improve on campus and then we can start planning,” said member Leisha Manchanda (11).
Council members said they enjoy being able to take action on issues that matter and create changes on campus. Each student has a voice and their own unique perspective, and the council gives a platform to bring this voice forward.
“I like making an impact on our campus, having a larger leadership role, and just that feeling that you’re making a true difference,” said Manchanda.
“I like how the council has shifted to being more student-led in recent years. Being able to change stuff that I think is a problem on campus is super important,” said third year member Ashyln Engel (11).
The first student council meeting was held Wednesday, September twenty fourth in the theatre conference room. Abedzadeh gave an overview of the council and its processes, sharing the achievements of last year’s council.
This year, the council will be centering their focus on creating equality and inclusivity on campus. This includes getting students from all cultures and backgrounds involved in the campus community, as well as embracing the diversity of our campus and ensuring everyone has a voice.
Abedzadeh shared upcoming events at SJHHS and discussed the current campus climate. New members were welcomed to the council, as well as returning members. “I’m excited to be meeting new people, new members, and get started up on projects again with everyone,” said Engel.
The Principal Student Council meets on the third Wednesday every month. Any student is welcome and encouraged to attend and become a part of the student council. Meetings are held in Madame Keeler’s room, D12, and in the Theatre Conference room.
“I am excited to see how much more we can do as a collective this year. We have a great group of students, and I welcome you to be a part of the council,” said Abedzadeh.
