connecting students together

By Katelyn Tran

In many middle schools, it is common to see an ASB or leadership program—where students have a voice around the school. 

Down Aetna Way, San Jose, a K-8 elementary-middle school called Windmill Springs Elementary is known for one of its many programs, including its Student Leadership Program (SLT), which I used to be a part of.

The program began when the middle school was constructed, and it ranges from grade 4-8, allowing each grade to have their own voice and be a part of the school’s community. 

The head advisor, Mr. Felipe, who was the advisor during my experience, is a PE teacher at Windmill, works alongside the SLT’s executive team— the president, vice president, secretary, and treasurer—- to ensure that every student feels included. 

Felipe: “I like that in some way we help some students find meaning and be a part of the school community because we have all these spirit weeks and we have these other— you know community events that give them the opportunity to make them feel more part of the school and have a little fun with it too.”

Not only does the SLT provide a voice for the students, but it allows the students to have a little bit of fun too. Their events include spirit weeks, dances, rallies, and more to show school spirit while making everyone feel like they belong, especially their leadership rallies. 

In the SLT, their goal is to make sure everyone in the school community feels welcome and has a sense of belonging. By doing so, they can have a great experience and have opportunities to take up these leadership roles. The secretary, Elin Lai, has many things to say about her experience as well. 

Elin: “I remember I first started out in 6th grade. I did it with my friend, Val, and at that time I was really nervous because my self esteem was low— but as I continued to be part of the Student Leadership Team, my confidence really improved a lot. It’s pretty crazy to me how I used to be a shy member, but now I’m the secretary.”

Although there are many enjoyments, setting and planning these events can be tiring.

Felipe: “It has impacted me in that I am working more hours overtime because this is not paid, so a lot of things like the prep work for the meetings, making sure things are set in place for our events,  letting the other staff/teachers know what’s happening, and also our own field trip, making sure that we’re covered for that… And I think it’s important to have someone in charge that’s actually interested in it, so we can have all these events and celebrations throughout the school year that everyone enjoys. But it does take a lot of planning and hard work to make it happen.”

Even if it takes up much of the student’s and advisor’s time, they will make sure that every single student is able to enjoy their elementary-middle school years. At times though, difficulty can still occur— especially to the advisors.

Felipe: “Being part of the SLT is kind of not having my hand as much with taking charge of what’s happening. I try to let executive leadership so like the president/vice president try to guide the other students. That way it doesn’t feel like I’m the one making the choice for them, so the kids can have a bigger voice in what to say in the events or spirit weeks that we’re doing.”

Despite not having a say in much, the advisors still will try to persuade the students on the right track, so they can grow and learn. By doing so, students can learn to step up to become a leader themself. 

Currently, the program is trying to go on a field trip called CASL(California Association of Student Leaders), where students around California come together to collaborate and learn new leadership skills. Mr. Felipe believes that with this, students from Windmill are able to make new connections, have fun, and become a better leader. 

Outside of the program, many may view the SLT as tiring or a lot of work, but students inside the SLT have said to have a positive experience, allowing them to push themselves and grow outside their comfort zone.

Elin: “Honestly, I would definitely recommend people to join ASB or leadership programs because it helps you get out of your comfort zone and you also get to  make new friends. You have so much fun in the process, but it’s just worth it to know that you’re helping more people while helping yourself improve as well.”

As an old executive member of the SLT, I can confidently say that by joining this program, it can provide many new opportunities and skills while having much fun in the process. Not only will it provide insight to clubs in high school, but help give students meaning to help others become their own leader too.