Kennedy Student Government Receives National Honor

BELLMORE, NY — For its exemplary record of leadership, service and activities that serve to improve the school and community, the John F. Kennedy High School Student Government has been recognized as a 2021 National Gold Council of Excellence by National Student Council.

“For our student government to have received an award from the National Student Council, it not only reflects all of the accomplishments and motives we were awarded for, but it also reflects the collaboration, communication and determination each one of our members have when putting their minds to great work,” said Dylan Lipman, Student Government president.

“Receiving a National Gold Council of Excellence Award reflects the highest dedication on the part of the school to providing a strong, well-rounded student council program,” said Nara Lee, director of student leadership for the National Association of Secondary School Principals. “NatStuCo applauds the work of the National Gold Councils of Excellence and challenges them to continue their leadership and service to their schools and communities.”

To meet the requirements for the National Council of Excellence Award, a student council must meet a variety of criteria. In addition to basic requirements such as a written constitution, regular meetings and a democratic election process, the councils have demonstrated successful sponsorship and participation in activities such as leadership development and service to the school and community. Councils awarded the gold level of the award have successfully demonstrated the highest levels of leadership.

“Receiving this award, especially after the way the last year has gone, is extremely special for the KSG,” said Eric Giannaris, Student Government vice president. “The fact that we were able to persevere through the pandemic and still meet the criteria of a high-achieving Student Council demonstrates the determination throughout Student Government. This should serve as precedent for years to come.”

The club operates under Brad Seidman, a social studies teacher and faculty adviser.