Benet Academy’s brand new Principal Advisory Council met for the first time on February 12th. This group of thirty-eight students from each grade level will collaborate throughout the year to create a school environment that fosters unity and harmony.

The meeting began with members creating the council’s social contract. They identified the most important qualities needed to solve issues and build mutual respect. Each representative then picked the three topics that they regarded as the most important aspects of the social contract.

Next, the council discussed its mission statement of bringing together student representatives from every grade to ensure that the voices of their peers are heard by the administrative team. Members were encouraged to hold interviews and seek stories from their peers. They must make efforts to observe, engage, watch, and listen. The students were reminded that solving meaningful problems requires empathy and a genuine effort to understand what matters most to others. Freshman Sarah Read commented on her experience at the first meeting. She said, “I really loved the entire atmosphere of the first PAC meeting. Everyone was so respectful, and I enjoyed being able to have a say in school matters.”

As the Principal Advisory Council begins its work, members are shaping the future of Benet. By listening intentionally, leading with empathy, and representing their peers, members are confident that they will cultivate change at Benet. The first meeting marked the beginning of a strong partnership between students and the Principal’s Cabinet. This partnership is built on respect, collaboration, and communication. It is bound to improve the quality of Benet’s community.