They stood next to their desks, each of them raising their right hand, and recited an oath. The setting - a classroom - was familiar. But the reason they were there - forming a student government - was not.
“Congratulations, nice job!” said teacher Kevin Woods, when they were done.
So began a new era in student government in Sto-Rox.
Woods, a Social Studies teacher at Sto-Rox Jr./Sr. High School, is the staff adviser for the newly-created student council. It’s a personal pursuit for Woods, who wanted to share inspiration that came from his experiences in student government in both high school and college.
“I vividly remember the excitement, challenges, and sense of responsibility that came with those campaigns,” said Woods, “and I was fortunate enough to serve as president at both levels.”
Woods didn’t hesitate to roll out his plan for student government. During the second week of school, he approached Principal Raelyn Day and Assistant Principal Asia Davis with the idea. They fully supported the creation of a student government, and all of the responsibilities that come with it.
“By giving our students the opportunity to lead and make decisions, we're not only fostering their personal growth but also building a more inclusive school community where everyone's voice is heard,” said Woods. “My goal is to engage our students early in the democratic process, not just as future voters, but as future candidates.”
Teaching the lessons of political participation is vital, especially in a presidential election year. Woods believes students will develop the confidence and ability to lead their fellow students and their community. It’s a notion that fills Woods’ heart with optimism and pride.
“Watching them step up as leaders of their school was incredibly inspiring,” said Woods. “They were eager and energized, especially once it was announced that elections would be held.”
Kevin Woods.
Woods is eager to point out that while he may have brought up this idea of government, it’s up to students to run with it.
“The students are the ones who will nurture the garden: maintain it and watch it grow, bloom, and thrive,” said Woods. “As their advisor, my role is to offer guidance, but ultimately, they lead the way. Seeing them embrace that responsibility is truly rewarding.”
Woods believes empowering students now will help them develop the tools to create a world they want to live in.
“Our community has historically faced barriers to change, and simply voting isn't enough,” said Woods. “To see real, lasting change, we need our young people to run for office, whether it's at the local, state, or even federal level.”
Work started right away for the new student government. Student Council sponsored “Homecoming 2024: The Masquerade,” helping to organize and promote the annual celebration within the school. Woods will continue to advise and encourage his students to represent their fellow classmates and their community with pride. Now that students have been elected to their posts, the real work has begun.
“As I remind my students every day: representation matters,” he continued. “Real change starts when our voices are not just heard, but when they are in positions of power and influence, shaping policies that directly affect our lives.”
2024-2025 Sto-Rox Student Council
President - Cici Mason
Vice President - Eve Barrow
Secretary - Jaliya Kerney
Treasurer - David Somerville
12th Grade Reps - Kyrai Adams, Javyiah Macon, Indrid Plata, Shaiky Yates
11th Grade Reps - Serenity West, Christian Fuller, Eric Richardson, Sean Barrow
10th Grade Reps - Karma Boxley, Viyhsaela Macon, Aaliyah Greer, Egypt Drummond
9th Grade Reps - Karic Willis, Alaijah Crawley, Louis Neth, Naishawn Hines