As the school year is coming to an end, members of the Class of 2029 are thinking about one of the first major leadership opportunities of their high school tenure: the Sophomore Prefect elections.
A mandatory meeting for students interested in running is going to be held Tuesday, May 5th, during WIN 1 and 2 in Bing 123, where Upper School prefects will share their experiences as prefects as well as their transition to the upper school. Students who are unable to make it are asked to meet with Director of Student Affairs Ms. Tooke, who oversees the election process.
For 9th graders who are still unsure if they want to run for Sophomore Prefect, the role at the Upper School comes with opportunities that aren’t present at the Middle School. According to 9th grade dean Mr. Plath, prefects do more than just plan events, they also sit on the Honor Board.
“Aside from planning and running school events and working to improve the quality of student life on campus, Upper School prefects also sit on the Honor Board, which is a significant responsibility and something that does not exist at the Middle School,” Plath said.
Beyond organizing school dances or spirit week, prefects are the Upper School are a key part in upholding school values, a big step up in accountability.
When asked about what makes someone an effective prefect, Mr. Plath emphasized character.
“A great prefect is someone who truly cares about making the school a better place, not just for themselves, but for everyone around them,” he said. “The most effective prefects lead by example: they are reliable, responsible, and are organized, and they communicate with clarity and purpose.”
He added that the role demands more than just competence. “They rise to the challenge of balancing their commitments while still showing up fully for their community. Most importantly, they have the courage to stand up for what’s right, to advocate for others, and to bring the school’s mission to life in the way they act every day.”
The details of this year’s election process are still being finalized. Plath said that he believes that it will resemble the format used during WIN for 9th grade elections in the fall, but said to try Ms. Tooke with any detailed questions.
For 9th graders still on the fence, prefect is about stepping into a role that, at the Upper School, asks and offers more than it did before.
