(This is an archive story, refer to following byline for author's name)
By Braylee Schlegel
“Student council is the voice of the student body,” Stuco Advisor Briana Hudson said. “Stuco is here to give students a voice and a pathway to make positive changes for our school and our community.”
Student Council is a common organization throughout the country, students in schools coming together to help improve the average high school experience. The Student Council at Brewer is no exception. The group of students participates and organizes many events throughout the school year. For example, they hosted the Spooktacular Drive-Thru and participated in Bus Driver Appreciation, Red Ribbon Week, HOCO, the Thanksgiving Food Drive, and more.
“For dress-up days we are the ones who make posters for them,” Freshman Member Zion Curb said. “We collaborate with sports teams, staff, teachers, and clubs to help out.”
As time progresses, the students and advisors are coming up with more ideas to involve the community.
“We have ideas to do an item drive for the homeless, a clothing drive, volleyball tournament, Mario Kart tournament, Custodial appreciation, fun run, and more,” Hudson said.
There are also many different committees in the organization itself that include: D.A.S.H (Drugs Alcohol and Health,) Pride and Patriotism, Energy and Environment, Community Service, and Hospitality.
“We are always working on the next project. Our committees are split to generate specific focuses that end with ideas for future fundraisers and community service.” Advisor Vanessa Garza said.
Each committee has its own projects that they work on to improve the school and the people in it.
“I am one of the Committee heads of Energy and Environment and we are getting ready to sell Succulents and use the profit to purchase a greenhouse for the Biology Department,” Junior Member Grey Caston said. “I am super excited for this project because I believe it'll benefit the entire student body and be a staple for the Student Council.”
Student Council is a big statement at Brewer, and the hard work that everyone puts in is important for growth and recognition. Students could potentially gain a lot by simply joining the organization.
“I don’t think most people have a shortage of good ideas, but instead aren’t aware of the steps to take to bring them to life,” Hudson said. “Being a part of Student Council can guide students to get involved and make positive changes.”
Not only do the students make a big difference in this community, but the advisors are also a big part of the impact they are making. It’s easy to connect with your teachers when they are as involved as the student.
“Mrs. Garza and Mrs. Hudson are so approachable and fun,” Curb said. “They both teach two different types of math classes, student council, Math UIL all while making close connections to their students, making time to grade, and balance that all out with their personal lives! I find it so inspiring.”
Advising a group of kids like this is no easy task, but Garza and Hudson make it look easy.
“It can be stressful at times, but it’s worth it to help make our school a better place and to see our students work so hard to make a positive impact,” Hudson said.
The advisors are what makes the community stick together, and their work does not go unnoticed.
“They [Hudson and Garza] are the best teachers I've ever had the pleasure of meeting and I want them to know we love them too!” Curb said.
Student Council is not limited to a certain type of person, anyone can apply to be apart of the group. When applying for things like this, teacher recommendations are a common requirement. There is an online application that each applicant is expected to fill out. You will need to pair it with three teacher recommendations. An email will be sent out with a link to apply, there will also be QR codes around to school once the time comes.
“The application process is weirdly exciting,” Junior Member Paige Truex said. “Once you fill out the application it is very cool and exciting to know that you have a chance to make a contribution to something bigger next year.”
No matter who you are, if you have a passion for community service and helping your school, student council is the place for you.
“Don't be scared to apply! If you feel like you'd be a good asset to our team and will participate, we'd love to have you!” Caston said.