Leadership begins early at Meridian Elementary School, where the Student Council gives third through fifth-grade students their first taste of civic engagement and responsibility.

"We started this last year," explains Brittney Mitchell, Elementary Secretary and co-sponsor of the Student Council alongside Selena Crisler. "It gets them ready with some public speaking and prepares them for middle school, high school, and later in life."

The democratic process begins with interested students completing applications, obtaining signatures from parents and teachers, and writing about why they would make good leaders. Candidates then design campaign posters that line the hallways and prepare speeches for a special assembly.

"We pulled out a section of the bleachers in the gym and invited anyone who wanted to come," Mitchell recalls. "The bleachers were packed that morning. We recorded each kid's speech and sent it to their parents too."

On voting day, the entire elementary school participates in selecting four officers—President, Vice President, and two additional positions focused on leadership and positive behavior initiatives.

Fifth-grader Kaleb Malley was elected President this year. Despite his natural dislike of public speaking, he overcame his nerves and delivered an impressive campaign speech.

"I hate public speaking," Kaleb admits. "Knowing I'm speaking to people makes me nervous because I think I'm going to mess up." However, Mitchell notes, "He blew it out of the water. He was amazing."

As President, Kaleb's responsibilities include leading the Pledge of Allegiance over the intercom system—a duty he has performed flawlessly throughout the year. "I liked to do the Pledge of Allegiance," he shares, demonstrating his commitment to the role despite his nervousness.

The Student Council comprises approximately 22 students. While only four serve as officers, all candidates who applied remain involved as council members. This inclusive approach ensures that every student who demonstrated leadership interest has an opportunity to contribute.

Student Council members serve as role models throughout the school. "A lot of our children that are on the Student Council are very quick to open the door for you, hold the door, offer to walk kids to class, or say, 'I can carry those boxes for you,'" Mitchell observes. "They are the ones that want to come to the office and help."”

One of the council's first achievements came through a partnership with the American Legion, which donated flags for every classroom, the office, lobby, and hallway. The presentation made the local newspaper, with Kaleb and his fellow officers featured in the photo.

Council members assist with various school functions throughout the year. They helped with Grandparents Day in September, guiding visitors around the building. They provide input on special events and PBIS (Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports) parties, including this year's "Picnic with the Principal" and the annual end-of-year water party with inflatable slides.

"We want their input," Mitchell emphasizes. "We want to make sure that it's fun for them and that it's stuff they want to do, so we always make sure to try to include them and ask their decision."

Kaleb takes his responsibilities beyond formal duties. Each morning, he delivers coffee and fruit to the school nurse, a small gesture that exemplifies the council's spirit of service.

Academically, Kaleb excels as "one of our top students in the whole fifth grade," according to Mitchell. "He is one that I see going very far in life. I expect big things from this young man."

Outside of school, Kaleb demonstrates entrepreneurial spirit. He raises chickens, pheasants, and other poultry, selling eggs for $2.50 per dozen. His experience with farming connects to his future aspirations. When asked about his career plans, he states confidently, "I plan to be a farmer," explaining that he is comfortable working with both animals and plants.

As one of his campaign promises, Kaleb proposed a "Bring Your Pet to School Day," which hasn't materialized yet due to allergy concerns. However, his vision for enhancing school life remains strong.

Through the Elementary Student Council, Meridian is cultivating young leaders who understand service, responsibility, and civic engagement—valuable lessons that will serve them throughout their academic careers and beyond.