Senior Class Vice President

Ellie White

Candidate Video

Question and Answer

Question #1: What are two initiatives you will work on as a Class Officer next year if you are elected?

Senior year is going to be hectic time, full of excitement and ambition as we all get ready for the next phases of our lives. I believe that the 2026-2027 school year has the opportunity to be an amazing unifying and bonding experience for us, because we're all in the same boat! First, as the Senior Class VP, I want to solidify a more connected, inclusive class culture. I plan to do this through a "Colt Compliments" campaign. If we had a note system dedicated to encouraging notes that recognized our fellow classmates for their efforts and acheivements, I believe it would foster a closer sense of community and appreciation for everyone's hard work. Too often we are so hard on ourselves, and sometimes it takes an outside observer giving you a pat on the back to see that you're doing everything you need to, and things are going to be ok. 

Which would directly contribute to my next initiative, which is to make senior year an absolute blast for everyone! I would like to implement a bit more student body imput into planning things like dances and the senior dinner, so that everyone can feel more included in the landmark events of the year. My goal is for everyone to graduate with golden memories and lifelong friendships!

Question #2: What does it mean to you to be a Colt?

To me, being a Colt is about knowing that I have a place among the stampede. I have felt so supported by my community here at Cottonwood, and I try my best to pay the kindness I have felt forward. Whether that's in my relationships at school, or with anyone I meet. Being a Cottonwood Colt also comes with an expectation of integrity and respect, and it's a culture I feel I've benefited from throughout my high school years. 

Question #3: What is one way you would develop activities to make everyone at Cottonwood feel welcome and included?

As I stated in my initiatives, I think sending out surveys to promote the imput of the student body into school events would help people feel like they are a part of the process and included in the workings of the school. Participation in the planning of things would increase the buy-in. Homeroom surveys would up the participation and help everyone feel more involved. 

I also know from personal experience that a smile and a friendly face can go such a long way in helping people feel welcome. I want to be someone that everyone knows they can come and talk to at any school activity, if they ever feel hesitant to go to something because they are worried they won't know anyone (I've definately been there). 

Question #4: What advice do you have to stay motivated with attendance and academics throughout the year?

Going to class every day and learning everything you can directly increases your chances of success in the future. I stress a lot about the unknowns of the future, because there will be so many things I can't control. But one thing I can do now to guarantee less stress later, is to go to school. For me, going to school and trying my best helps me to feel more in control. High School presents us with so many opportunities to experiment with interests and get ahead in college education before boatloads of money get involved, so it's really a good idea to take advantage of it while we can. 

Question #5: What are some qualities that make a great leader?

Some qualities that make a good leader are patience, optimism, and work ethic. I have been able to observe these qualities through many influential people in my life, but most specifically through watching my Dad, and the way he runs his business. He approaches problems with a determination and patience that has always inspired me, and I hope to be able to emulate the qualities I admire in him. 

Question #6: What is a leadership quality you have and how will it help you be a good Class Officer at Cottonwood?

One leadership quality that I have, is the ability to reach out and make connections. I pride myself on being a people person. I love meeting new friends, and learning from the people I have the privilege of knowing. I want to help everyone feel included and welcome at Cottonwood, and I believe my outgoing nature will make it easier for me to do that. I want everyone to feel like they can come up and talk to me anytime, and I intend to be a strong advocate for a connected community at Cottonwood. 

Question #7: What specific qualifications do you have for your intended position?

I love talking to people and getting to know them, which would help me a lot in running the Humans of Cottonwood Instagram account. I am good at working with people, which will be useful in planning homeroom activities and collaborating with the other Vice Presidents.

Task

Task: Create a list of at least 4 Homecoming Homeroom activity ideas that you think students would enjoy and how you think those ideas will create a sense of belonging and unity in the school. Additionally, write two questions you could ask students to answer for the Humans of Cottonwood Instagram account. 

Homecoming Homeroom Activities

1. Class Mural Activity: Every homeroom makes a small part of a larger poster/mural, where they are assigned to draw pictures representing things like "What makes Cottonwood GREAT". We would then combine all of the posters into one big display, reinforcing that everyone is part of our school's community.

2. "Common Ground" Challenge: Students are separated into groups of 4-6, preferably with students they aren't super familiar with. They then have to find 5-10 things they all have In common (not super common things like we all go to cottonwood) This activity would break down cliques and help students realize they have more In common than they think.

3. Minute to Win It Games: The classic games: cup stacking, oreo on the face, keep a ballon In the air, etc. These games are always good to foster a fun, competative, and ultimately team-like environment that would make homerooms feel more like a community

4. "Colt Compliments" activity: Everyone In the class Is assigned a fellow classmate that they have to anonymously write a genuine compliment or appreciation about. This activity would build a positive environment and help the quieter students feel seen, without pressure. 

5. Finish the Lyrics/Guess the Song: the activity Itself Is pretty explanatory. The students could also suggest school-appropraite songs ahead of time so It feels more relevent. Music Instantly boosts energy, and participation In this activity Is easy, because you can just shout the answers from your seat. In my experience, low effort but competative games like this have been the most effective In getting classmates to Interact and cultivate a spirit of unity.

Humans of Cottonwood Questions 

Question #1: What is your favorite high school memory?

Question #2: What is your most used app on your phone?

Question #3: Which Teacher do you think would survive a zombie apacolypse, and why?