Student Leadership From Bell to Bell

By Lauren Valentino

As principal of Botelle School, one of my greatest joys is watching our students grow into thoughtful, responsible and active leaders. Families, community members and visitors to our school often notice the dedication of our fantastic teachers and staff, but what they might not realize is just how much our school community relies on our 5th and 6th grade students. From the moment the morning bell rings to the final bus departure, our Upper Intermediate student leaders step up to make Botelle a safe, welcoming and efficient environment for everyone. Every day, these students take on essential roles that keep our school community connected and cared for.

Start the Day Strong
Two students handle the daily hoisting and lowering of the American flag. They do so with care and respect. Fifth graders Julianna and Adaline were recently in charge of the flag. When asked what they’ve learned by doing this job, Julianna replied, “I’ve learned the importance of the flag.” “And how to fold it in a perfect triangle,” contributed Adaline.

Our school day begins with one student broadcasting the morning announcements–leading the pledge, setting a moment of silence and keeping everyone updated on school news and lunch menus. “I feel proud,” said Hunter, a 6th grader at Botelle, who was a little nervous about it at first, but with practice and encouragement from his classmates developed confidence.

Cafeteria Crew
During lunch, our student leaders shine in the cafeteria. Two students staff the Condiments Crew, passing out napkins, condiments, silverware and straws to K-2 students as they move through the lunch line. At the end of lunch, it’s all-hands-on deck. One student, the Utensils Patrol, collects baskets with used silverware and dumps them in the soapy water. Two more students wash the tables, but the most sought-after jobs are Peer Mentors and Line Leaders. These students sit with the younger students during lunch, helping them open milk cartons or bags of apples. They also keep the kids engaged, asking them questions like, “Who likes ketchup?” or, like Adilyn, playing hide and seek behind lunch boxes.

At the very end of lunch, the Line Leaders quiet the younger students, line them up and lead them back to class. The Line Leaders remind them of the rules in the hallway and deliver them safe and sound to the waiting teachers. Fiona, a 5th grader who volunteered to be a Line Leader for 1st and 2nd graders, said that “I like to be a student leader because I like helping others–the little kids are kind.”

Dismissal Operations
At the end of the day, two students coordinate dismissal safety with Mrs. Lasko, asking the important questions: “Is anyone outside?” and “Are there any changes to dismissal?” Once they get the answers, they begin checking each classroom and bathroom to ensure that every student is accounted for before giving the signal for buses to depart. When “All out, up and down!” is announced throughout the building, the staff and buses know that every student is where they are supposed to be and it is safe to head home.

Beyond their daily jobs, our Upper Intermediate students lead by example on the playground and in the hallways, serving as positive role models and ensuring that every child feels included. Their enthusiasm extends to broader service through Student Council, where members—including Freya, Lilyah, Adaline, Landree, Lyko, Fiona and Shelby—plan activities aimed at spreading kindness across our school, in Norfolk and beyond. Mrs. Darcie McIntyre, one of the teachers who runs Student Council, said, “I love to see students making an impact in their community and having opportunities to develop their leadership skills.”

Being a student leader at Botelle isn’t just about carrying a title. It’s about taking initiative, caring for neighbors and making our school family stronger each day. We are immensely proud of our 5th and 6th graders for their hard work and commitment to their school and town.

Editor’s Note: Lauren Valentino is the principal of Botelle Elementary School.