This year, Almaden Country Day School introduced an exciting new student leadership opportunity that is already making a meaningful impact on campus life. Called the Cougar Council, this middle school elective was created to give students a stronger voice in shaping the student experience while building leadership and project management skills that will serve them well beyond their years at ACDS.

The idea for Cougar Council grew out of conversations about how to make Spirit Days, socials, and other student-centered events more engaging and relevant. The faculty recognized that students themselves are best positioned to help answer that question. By creating Cougar Council, ACDS established a space where students could share ideas, collaborate with adults, and turn their vision into action, strengthening both school spirit and a sense of belonging.

Since its launch, Cougar Council has quickly become a vibrant presence on campus. Enrollment in the elective continues to grow, and students arrive with enthusiasm, confidence, and a solution-oriented mindset. Most importantly, students are seeing that their voices matter and that their contributions are valued.

In its first trimester, Cougar Council students played key roles in planning and supporting a variety of events. They led Super Fan Friday, introducing spirit points for middle school students, organizing competitions, and unveiling the new student-designed Spirit Trophy. They also brought energy to younger grades by hosting student-led games and activities during lunch recess.

Students collaborated with the Parent Service Auxiliary (PSA) on the November Middle School Social, helping design the theme and introducing new elements like a taco truck and pumpkin decorating station. During the Halloween Parade, Cougar Council members served as emcees, organized photo logistics, and guided students through the event. They also worked alongside coaches and the band to create a spirited Pep Rally for grades 4-8, celebrating athletics, music, and community.

Beyond events, Cougar Council emphasizes real-world learning. Students practice leadership, teamwork, communication, and whole-systems thinking through event proposals, planning meetings, and service-oriented projects. The program also fosters collaboration with faculty, staff, and community partners, with plans to expand service learning opportunities in the coming semesters.

As one student shared, Cougar Council provides “a way to advocate for ourselves and our peers.” That sense of agency and belonging is at the heart of the program’s success. Cougar Council is already shaping a more engaged, student-centered campus. Its impact will be felt for years to come.