Student council elections take place twice a year, in October and February. These elections give elementary and middle school students a chance to engage in a scaled-down version of the democratic process, from campaigning to voting to representing their classmates’ voices.
How the Elections Work
- Who can run? Any student who feels inspired to represent their class can campaign for the role of class delegate.
- The campaign process: Candidates create posters and deliver speeches to explain why they would be the best choice and how they would represent their classmates.
- Voting: Each elementary and middle school class holds a confidential vote to elect two delegates.
- Term duration: Delegates serve for four months.
Responsibilities of Student Council Delegates
Once elected, delegates take on several key responsibilities:
- Meetings: Elected delegates meet once a month with their division director to discuss student ideas and concerns.
- Listening to their classmates: Before each monthly meeting, delegates gather input from their peers, noting concerns, ideas, and suggestions.
- Presenting ideas to school leadership: During meetings, delegates share these ideas with school directors, advocating for their classmates.
- Reporting back to their class: After meetings, they update their classmates on decisions and next steps.
Developing Leadership Skills
The student council process introduces students to the responsibilities of elected officials. They learn to:
- Understand the importance of voting and representation.
- Build communication and public speaking skills.
- Learn to collaborate and advocate for their peers and meaningful changes in our school.
Projects Led by Student Council
Over the years, student council initiatives have led to real improvements in school life, including:
- A friendship bench on the field to encourage inclusivity during recess.
- A Middle School dance to promote social bonding.
- Fundraising for recess materials to enhance outdoor playtime.
Recent Student Council Initiatives
FAA’s student leaders have recently taken on exciting new projects:
- Class Pet Plant: Each elementary class received a Pothos plant donated by the PTO and purchased from PLNTD. Delegates created a poster guide on plant care and will present it to their classmates.
- Recess in the Street: Students petitioned local residents on 3rd Street, advocating for a daily street closure to create a safe and expanded recess space.
- Secret Snowflake: A holiday gift exchange where each elementary student picked a classmate at random and crafted a handmade gift to spread kindness and creativity.
- Bake Sale Fundraiser: Delegates organized several bake sales to raise funds for the classroom. With the proceeds, they purchased plants and holiday decorations. The next bake sale will help fund books about South America for the class library corner.
Making a Difference, One Idea at a Time
Through the student council, even our youngest delegates learn that their voices matter. By working together, listening, and taking initiative, they see firsthand how they can create real, positive change in our school community.
