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representatives act as a sounding board for the faculty, staff, and topics to the council to gauge their responses. e council discusses and debates topics from many angles, with a particular emphasis on representing all students and their range of opinions. Recently, for example, Trevor's dress code was brought up. It sparked a passionate debate on students' fashion expression, appropriateness for the school atmosphere, and even how students' clothing might affect the safety of students in and outside ofthe school. e second purpose of the council is to propose ideas to the Division Director and deans. is year's Student Council is especially interested in service projects, and spends much of its time planning drives (food, toiletries, holiday gifts, etc.) or other activities that give back to the community at large. Although they take the lead in managing these projects, they also encourage classmates to participate. One such project is the Pasta Bowl, an annual event in which students bring in uncooked pasta to be donated to the New York Common Pantry. e Middle School Student Council got their hands dirty (literally) while decorating the collection boxes for the pasta and they actively encouraged their classmates to donate and reach predetermined goals. e New York Common Pantry isn't the Student Council's only beneficiary; they work with numerous organizations in the community to feed the hungry and provide for those who may not be as fortunate. Andrew S. states, "I believe the Student Council's most important initiative this year is working with those in need around New York City. We chose to take on this initiative in many ways, such as making holiday cards for those living in senior homes, running food drives, and assembling personal hygiene kits for the homeless." While their focus is the work at hand, fun is always a key component. is year, the Middle School Halloween costume contest was sponsored by the Student Council. ey developed the rules and regulations, publicized the contest throughout the school (which resulted in a large turnout), and then judged the contest. While developing Trevor's costume guidelines, they gave positive reinforcement to all participants. As the celebration continued, the class representatives were also the first on the dance floor, leading and encouraging students and faculty to join them. With the support of their classmates, guidance from educators, and through their innate passion, these students are making change, helping others, and leaving a legacy for the students who will follow them. We won't be shocked to see these students continue their service as part of the Upper School Student Council, college student government associations— or, down the road, even members of the United States Senate or House of Representatives. n

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