The bright, blinding, warm lights faced the Performing Arts Center stage in the room full of empty seats. Sounds of practicing introductions and quiet conversations were heard among the Student Council officers on stage, then silence. The first student walked in, and then more students started scrambling in, as a quiet atmosphere turned into a loud and chaotic atmosphere in seconds. Multiple conversations erupted among members, students got situated, finding themselves seats and putting away their belongings, and discussions died down once new Student Council advisors Erin Kile and Samantha Escudero stepped onstage.
Student Council is just starting to assemble for the year with not only new advisors but also new student leaders, including senior Monisha Xavier, who will be serving as president.
“Being president is so great,” Xavier said. “I truly enjoy it so much. When I was first assigned, I couldn’t believe it. It came as a surprise, but I couldn’t be more excited and grateful. I look forward to honestly just seeing where this new year of Student Council goes.”
Science teachers Kile and Escudero discussed several key points in the Student Council callout meeting on Aug. 21. Kile, Escudero and Xavier were joined by the other student leaders: vice president sophomore Jordyn Shreves, secretary junior Shazia Hadi, PR and recruitment chairman junior Niyana Nield, junior PR and recruitment chairman sophomore Jacey Anderson, and membership experience chairman junior Mariah Glover.
“Student Council is all about leadership, collaboration and advocacy,” Xavier said. “By not only working with the students in WC but working with the MSD Warren Township Community, it shows the importance of helping others.”
During prom last year, the position became available to Escudero and Kile, who were chaperoning the event. Escudero and Kile have experience running student organizations in high school and college and have great passion for student leadership.
“We are very excited to be student council advisors,” Escudero said. “We’ve been at Warren for a few years now, and the relationships we’ve formed with our students will make this experience even better.”
Kile has taught chemistry, human body systems and medical interventions during her time at Warren. She also advocates for teachers as a building representative for the Warren Education Association, and she is a liaison for the Warren Arts and Education Foundation.
“I am excited to encourage more student voices in our community,” Kile said.
Escudero has co-sponsored the Science Olympiad team for the past three years, and she is a member of the PTSA and a liaison for the Warren Arts and Education Foundation. She has also taught chemistry, integrated chemistry and physics, principles of biomedical science and forensic science during her time at Warren. Escudero has major plans and goals for the Student Council this year.
“I am excited to support our members and officers in their efforts to improve our school and plan our big events of the year,” she said.
Xavier has been in Student Council for 3 years and is welcoming and supportive of the new advisors and is excited for the new plans.
“I absolutely love the new advisors,” Xavier said. “They are so kind, sweet and are so supportive of our ideas as officers. There couldn’t have been a better pick honestly.”
Despite the Student Council being around for many years, one of their goals this year is to include the student body more and create an environment for everyone.
“I hope the student body enjoys everything Student Council has planned and that all of the officers look forward to making this school year the best.”