As the end of the school year approaches with graduation on the cusp, it becomes evident to the Class of 2026 that they are about to begin a new chapter in their lives. What once was a distant feeling is now a quickly approaching reality, bringing reflection and a chance to look back at what they accomplished during their time in high school.
For seniors who have taken on leadership roles, whether it’s as captain or club president, graduation represents more than just leaving high school. It marks the end of guiding others and shaping the environment around them. These students not only leave behind the memory of the program, but also hours of dedication and hard work.
“An important factor when it comes to leadership is not just about the title or the big things that you do. It’s about the small everyday actions and decisions that you make,” Mia Barrows, senior, Student Government President said.
Leadership is often associated with large, visible accomplishments- but many students say the most meaningful aspects actually come from quieter moments. Supporting teammates and setting expectations are responsibilities that don’t always receive the recognition deserved, but they are essential in the rest of the team’s success.
“The goal is to act as a role model for someone and to help at least one person, even if that is one person in a month,” Barrows said.
For many student leaders, success is not measured by the number of medals or awards granted, it’s indicated by the impact they leave on their peers. Captains and Presidents said their accomplishments are determined by how their teams progress even after they graduate.
“Leadership looks like pushing people to get better, leading by example and listening to the team to ensure we are always aiming for improvement,” Elias Silver, senior, Wrestling team Captain said.
These leaders stress the importance of being able to display excellence when it comes to teamwork and prioritizing mental wellbeing.
“I think all captains could agree on the fact that we just want what’s best for the team and give others confidence in their position as a member,” Leila Torres, senior, Varsity Cheer Captain said.
As seniors begin to step away from their roles, they prepare to pass their responsibilities off to younger students. This reflects the fundamentals of leadership that prepares others to continue the blueprint that has previously been built.
“I’m someone who wants to go into sales and run a team of my own and being a team leader in high school has led me to develop skills that I can use in my future,” Torres said.
In the end, graduating as a captain or president isn’t just about finishing with the most cords, it’s about leaving behind a meaningful, lasting legacy.
“A big thing about leadership is that you don’t just use it in the roles that you’re taking on, you use it in everyday life and it’s a concrete part of my personality that I will continue to use in university,” Barrows said.
