Combs High School Student Council Officers Shine at AASC Leadership Camp

For the second consecutive summer, the leaders of Combs High School (CHS) Student Council demonstrated their dedication to leadership and team-building as they joined over 270 other high school leaders from across Arizona at the renowned Arizona Association of Student Councils (AASC) Leadership Camp. The camp, which ran from June 12th to 17th, provided an exciting and intensive environment for major skill development and inter-school interaction.

At the AASC Camp, each student was assigned to a diverse mock Student Council composed of 20-24 delegates from various schools. This arrangement promoted the cross-pollination of ideas and solutions to real-life problems presented to the councils. The students were tasked with creating a unique identity for their mock schools, complete with a school name, mascot, colors, and even a school song and chant. The delegates then devised and acted out skits to display their problem-solving tactics.

Breakout sessions further augmented their learning experience with insights into leadership styles, team building, etiquette, school spirit, and activities. The mock Student Councils were led by Junior Counselors (JCs), experienced AASC members who have graduated high school. Significantly, this year marked Combs' inaugural JC representation, with recent CHS Graduate and former Student Body Vice President, Cayla Bowen, earning the role amidst intense competition.

Twice-daily General Sessions were another highlight of the camp schedule. Presented by members of the AASC Senior staff, these sessions touched on a variety of essential topics, from leadership development to brainstorming, fundraising, council organization, and much more.

Despite the 12-14 hours of vigorous training and activities each day, time was always set aside for reflection, allowing delegates to contemplate how the day's lessons could be applied to their respective home councils. The camp concluded with a grand finale, featuring a celebratory banquet, Achievement Night, a candle lighting ceremony, and a dance.

Assistant Stuco Advisor Robert Laliberte also attended the camp, participating in the same activities as the student delegates alongside other Advisors from across the state.

Reflecting on their enriching camp experience, the CHS Stuco Publicity Director issued a statement of gratitude:

"We are beyond thankful for AASC, Dodge, and Pete, and the opportunity to be part of such an exceptional organization. Our student council has grown and learned immensely while having an incredible time. Our growth extends beyond the team level to individual leadership skills as well. A special thanks to our outstanding advisor, Dr. Nelson (D-Nelly), who nurtures us like his own children and instills valuable lessons about leadership and humanity. Without him, this transformative experience would not have been possible."

The CHS delegation attending the AASC Summer Leadership Camp included: Nadine Owens (Sophomore Class Vice President), Payton Everett (Sophomore Class President), Charlotte O'Brien (Student Body President), Brooklyn Lowe (Student Body Treasurer), Constanza Tarazon (Senior Class Secretary), Alina Gerasimo (Student Body Historian), Kmadyn Mester (Student Body Publicity Director), and JC Cayla Bowen. Advisors Dr. Dave Nelson and Assistant Advisor Robert Laliberte also attended but were not pictured.

This hands-on, immersive camp experience undoubtedly equipped the CHS Stuco Officers with the knowledge and skills to take their council to new heights. The Combs High School community eagerly awaits the innovations and leadership these students will bring in the upcoming school year. The future is indeed bright for these emerging leaders.

Photo: CHS Stuco Officers attending the AASC Summer Leadership Camp are ( left to right) Nadine Owens (Soph Class VP), Payton Everett (Soph Class President), Charlotte O'Brien (Student Body President), Brooklyn Lowe ( Student Body Treasurer), Constanza Tarazon (Senior Class Secretary) Alina Gerasimo (Student Body Historian) Kmadyn Mester (Student Body Publicity Director). Not pictured Advisors Dr. Dave Nelson Assistant Advisor Robert Laliberte and JC Cayla Bowen.