Question and Answer

Question #1: What are two initiatives you will work on as an SBO next year if you are elected?

One initiative I would focus on as Historian is making sure that all groups and activities at Cottonwood High School are documented and represented. Sometimes certain clubs, teams, or student groups do not receive as much recognition as others, and I would make it a priority to highlight those groups as well. By intentionally attending a wide variety of events and capturing photos of different organizations, activities, and communities within the school, I want to help ensure that every student feels seen and included.

Another initiative I would work on is improving how we share and preserve memories from the school year while also helping build stronger school spirit. By capturing important moments from games, assemblies, dances, and other school events, I can highlight the energy and excitement of student life at CHS. Sharing these photos through school platforms can help students feel more connected to what is happening around campus and encourage more people to attend events and support one another. My goal would be to use photography not just to document events, but to showcase the pride, traditions, and positive atmosphere that make Cottonwood a community students are excited to be part of.

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

To me, being a Colt means being GREAT: goal oriented, respectful, engaged, accountable, and tolerant. Being goal oriented means working hard to achieve both personal and school-wide goals, whether that is succeeding academically, improving in activities, or helping make school events successful. Being respectful means treating others with kindness and valuing the different perspectives and backgrounds that make up our school community. Being engaged means getting involved in school activities, supporting events, and contributing positively to the community at Cottonwood. Being accountable means taking responsibility for your actions and following through on commitments, both inside and outside of the classroom. Finally, being tolerant means being open-minded and accepting of others, helping create an environment where everyone feels welcome and valued. I believe being a Colt means representing these values every day and helping build a strong and supportive school community.

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

One way I would develop activities to help everyone at Cottonwood feel welcome and included is by creating events that encourage participation from many different groups of students. This could include spirit days, assemblies, or school activities that highlight different clubs, cultures, and interests within our school. When students see their identities, interests, or communities represented, they are more likely to feel like they belong. I also think it is important to ask for feedback from students about what kinds of activities they would enjoy so that events reflect the interests of the whole student body. By intentionally planning inclusive activities and encouraging collaboration between different groups, we can create a school environment where everyone feels valued and connected. I would help make everyone at Cottonwood feel welcome and included through the photos and moments that are documented as Historian. Pictures help tell the story of what our school community looks like, so I would make an effort to capture a wide range of students, clubs, teams, and events. By photographing different groups and sharing those moments, more students can feel recognized and included in the life of the school. 

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

One piece of advice I have for staying motivated with attendance and academics throughout the year is to stay involved and connected to the school community. When students participate in activities, events, and clubs, school begins to feel like more than just classes, which can make people more motivated to show up and stay engaged. It can also help to set personal goals and remind yourself why your education is important for your future. Staying organized and managing time well can reduce stress and make it easier to balance schoolwork and other commitments. I also believe that surrounding yourself with supportive friends and teachers can make a big difference, because having people who encourage you can help keep you motivated even during the more challenging parts of the year.

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

Some qualities that make a great leader include responsibility, communication, and the ability to support others. A strong leader is someone who is dependable and follows through on their commitments so others can trust them. Communication is also important because leaders need to listen to different ideas and make sure everyone feels heard. Another important quality is being supportive and encouraging, especially when challenges arise. Great leaders focus on bringing people together and helping everyone work toward a common goal. They lead by example and create a positive environment where others feel motivated to contribute.

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

One leadership quality I have is responsibility. When I commit to something, I take it seriously and make sure I follow through on my role. Being responsible helps me stay organized, prepared, and dependable for others who are counting on me. As an SBO at Cottonwood, this quality would help me make sure that my responsibilities as Historian are handled consistently, whether that means documenting events, representing the school positively, or supporting other Student Government members. I also believe responsibility means taking pride in the work you do, and I would make sure to represent CHS in a way that reflects the energy, achievements, and spirit of the student body.