DHS Student Council’s 31 members from 9th through 12th grades presented their impressive portfolio of work on Jan. 22 at the Impact Career Innovation Center. The presentation was a final step in submitting their work to earn the National Council of Excellence award, which DHS won in 2022 and 2023.
Strong student councils are essential to strong schools. The National Council of Excellence (NCOE) Awards recognize and celebrate middle and high school Student Councils that meet high standards and demonstrate evidence of student service, leadership, voice, and engagement.
“You put out some good products this year with a lot of variety, and I’m proud of you,” said Principal Dr. Jon Hoerl to the students at the end of the presentation.
The DHS Student Council successfully completed 2-3 projects per month in 2024, including: service projects, student morale and school pride campaigns, and events like Winter Formal Dance, Prom, Homecoming, and assemblies. Wish Week was an event designed to support and raise funds for local children involved in the Make-A-Wish Foundation. The students attended leadership trainings and visited Escalante and Miller middle schools to inspire 8th graders to run for office when they advance to DHS as freshmen.
To stay organized, the DHS Student Council meets regularly and splits off into yearlong committees, including: Spirit, Leadership Summit, Announcements, School Beautification, and Teacher Appreciation.
Athletics & Activities Director Ryan Knorr complemented the students’ presentation for its focus on inclusivity of all students. He said he recognized their effort this year to make high school welcoming for everyone. One event, the Rent-A-Dress for Prom, was a student's idea to make the event accessible for students who couldn’t afford an expensive gown.
Students also pointed out the connections between their work and Portrait of a Graduate, the district’s vision to prepares students for the future. Students were Empathetic Collaborators in designing many service projects, such as a blood drive, visit to a senior center, and holiday gift-giving for families in need.
“We act as Confident Communicators to connect with school leaders, the Board of Education and district leadership,” said one presenter. “This has helped me feel extremely proud of my school as I worked as a Courageous Leader in my appointed position. We are all ready to serve and make a positive impact.”
That positive impact includes filling the DHS gym with joy and laughter, as evidenced in the DHS Rocks event. The goofy talent show featured Acrobating Math Teachers, Mysterious Worm People, Pie-Eating Contests, and Ankle-Breaking Limbo.
Excerpts from the students’ presentation can be viewed here.