Sophomore Class Secretary

June Calder

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?

One initiative I would like to work on as a Class Officer is increasing self-love and positivity. I have noticed this problem in the bathrooms, where I see negative messages written on the walls. The janitors do a great job cleaning them off the wall, but instead of having to take off the bad messages, I would love to help cover them up with positive messages. This could include an art competition between students, which could make the students more devoted to the cause. 

A second initiative I would like to work on is regular therapy support animal visits. My dog, Luna, is a registered therapy dog with Pet Partners and regularly visits schools in our area, including Oakwood Elementary School, Brighton High School, and the Univeristy of Utah. She has visited for a variety of reasons: helping students who are behind in reading, visiting special ed students, participating in Hope Squad events and providing student destress. I think it would be beneficial if Cottonwood had regular visits from therapy animals because it will help people feel less stressed and more calm.

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

To me, being a Colt is embodying the G.R.E.A.T. characteristics. This means being goal-oriented, respectful, engaged, accountable, and tolerant. I really love being a Colt because we have such a diverse, eclectic community, and I get to know so many different people.

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

I would like to introduce student polling so students can have more input. This idea can include polls for dance themes, tailgate themes, and dress-up days. I feel like this method can help students engage and be more likely to attend events showing Cottonwood spirit.

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

Staying motivated throughout the year can be really challenging. One thing to keep in mind is the idea that a little bit of effort now makes a big difference for your future.

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

I believe integrity, communication, dependability, and empathy make a great leader. Integrity is being honest and following your own strong morals, even when no one is watching. This makes a great leader because leaders have a great influence on those following. Communication is key because when many people contribute to a cause, a lack of communication can threaten outcomes. Dependability is important because it builds trust and accountability. Lastly, empathy is a very important quality in a great leader. Having empathy allows you to connect with others, share feelings, and share perspectives.

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

One quality I possess is the ability to notice and include others. Being aware of my surroundings and an innate sense of empathy help me make sure that everyone feels included. This will help me be a good Class Officer at Cottonwood because Class Officers run a many activities, such as dances and assemblies, and I can make a difference one by one.

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

Secretaries have to be very organized and outgoing. Some of their tasks include coordinating with the School PTA Board, focusing on inclusion and a sense of belonging, and coordinating with other school organizations. As the eldest of 6 children (I have 5 younger brothers!), a formative part of growing up has innately been leadership and caring. I have developed great organizational skills and have a great determination for success. Some qualifications I've achieved during my Freshman year at Cottonwood include:

• 4.0 Cumulative GPA; 3.8 Cumulative CPA

• Student of the Month (2x)

• Cottonwood Swim Team Member

• Cottonwood Theatre Society Member (currently working on my 4th performance)

• Cottonwood Academy of Performing Arts (CAPA) student

• Cottonwood Ballroom Team

• Featured Actor of the Week

Task

Secretary

Task: Create a sample list of groups at Cottonwood that could participate in a school assembly and write a sample email asking if they would like to participate. Additionally, create a simple outline of a Homecoming Assembly script. (Typically the Homecoming Assembly involves competition games between grades and includes a dance performance by the combined dance groups.) 

Groups to message:

• Latinos in Action

• Dance Company

• Drill Team

• Cheer Team

• Cottonwood Academy of Performing Arts (CAPA)

  • Cottonwood Theatre Society

  • Band

  • Orchestra

  • Choir

  • Dance 

Dear [Insert Group Name],

We have noticed how your group exhibits the values of Cottonwood students and we would love to feature you during our upcoming Homecoming assemply. Would your group members be interested in participating? If so, please reply to this email and we will send you more information. We will hold a rehearsal on ___ at ___.

Thank you for your continued support of Student Government!

Sincerely,

[Secretary] 

Homecoming Assembly Script Outline:

• Welcome!

• Grade cheer-off

• Cup-stacking - grade vs. grade

• Potato sack race - teachers vs. students

• Information about Homecoming week activities and events

• Tug of War - student volunteers then teachers vs. students 

• Pass the Hula-Hoop - teachers vs. teachers

• Musical Chairs - students

• Any more information

• Closing / Dismiss by grade