Student leaders demonstrate success is not an action but a habit

The Associated Student Body (ASB) government at Wahkiakum High School has set the bar high for demonstrating that leadership seen in daily actions to be successful. The ASB officers for the 2024-25 school year include: President Parker Leitz, Vice President Jessie LaFever, Secretary Haileeahna Nielsen, Treasurer Rylie Wills, Public Relations Officer Aaina Nakonsky, and Executive Liaisons Memphis Coleman and Evelynn Miller.

At a leadership retreat prior to the start of school this group of student leaders determined that they wanted to see change that would be long lasting and impactful. This made choosing their theme for the year easy. “Success is not an action, but a habit.”

Building on the theme of success, Nielsen shared her hopes to get more students involved in the school to build that habit. “We have a way of impacting most of the students and each of us connects with everyone in some way, so we know how to get people out of their comfort zones both at school and by themselves.” Haileeahna wants to see students socialize and be more involved, such as in the school Thanksgiving dinner. She finds involvement in the ASB important as she plans to pursue a business and cosmetology degree. “Knowing how to talk with people allows my social skills to grow.” Nielsen is working to build the habit and is eager to see people grow and be involved in school events.

Students will see changes as they transition to a 4-day school week. Another big change is the “No Phones” policy, in which students are not allowed to have phones out during class time or in the halls. Phones can be accessed and used only during lunch. “The stricter phone policy will hopefully help concentration levels in the class and help social interactions occur more naturally in the school environment,” shared Coleman. Coleman notices that some students struggle and need assistance for a variety of reasons, therefore this policy may help build a more active social support system in the school. “I see a need for more educational support, which I hope the new schedule will help with.” Coleman anticipates going into a career in education and sees her role in the ASB aligning with her future as a leader and one to help others in need.

Public Relations Officer, Alaina Nakonsky, is eager to be more involved in keeping students better informed which will align with her goals in learning about marketing and advertising techniques. She is managing social media to keep the student body and our community informed. “If I keep up this good habit, then I may be able to create some sort of legacy. Another student will take on this job and carry on the hard work, maybe even doing better.”

These leaders have a full schedule ahead of them, juggling sports, academics and leadership responsibilities as they plan some great activities. Vice President, Jessie Lafever is looking forward to bringing back the hygiene drive and expanding it. She’s eager to be involved as a student leader. “The biggest need I have seen is the need for personal connection. Becoming familiar with each other on a deeper level.”

There is positive energy and enthusiasm in the work of the ASB officer team, with clear goals to carry out the theme of building habits to be successful. Keep your eye open for new developments and information coming from this ambitious group of world changers as the year progresses. Follow the school website and social media for the most up to date information on activities at Wahkiakum High School.