Student Leadership
Within PWMHS, we lean upon our students to lead the way and personify our Champions Culture - with the goal being to support and champion all aspects of the Triple A... Academics, Arts, and Athletics. As determined by our Student Voice platform, this is done in three ways:
- We will foster positivity via character development, empathy, and mindfulness.
- We will form connections between educators and students to improve inclusivity and communication.
- We will promote problem-solving and critical thinking among the student body and staff.
Over the years, PWMHS has thrived with all three facets of the Triple A, but continue to evaluate, add, and strengthen programming and opportunities. Listed below are each of our STUDENT LEADERSHIP opportunities for HIGH SCHOOL students...
Student Leadership Opportunities
LINKS
Each year, our Counseling Department seeks out selfless high school students to serve as a LINK during one of their academic hours. Serving within our LINKS program connects the student to another student in need of academic support, is an hour-per-day commitment throughout the school year, and academic credit is given.
"Being a LINK has been one of my best decisions in life. I have no regrets whatsoever. This entire experience has given me a different definition of friendship, and it has shown me what it means to truly be kind. I have learned so much... learning about cognitive and physical disabilities, about being a leader and a friend, and about responsibility. I am so grateful to have been a part of this program this year, and I will cherish these memories forever.
I hope that others continue to sign up for this program and have the same opportunities that I had this year. There is not a class that gives you the same gratification as our LINK program. You can be the smartest student and take lots of AP classes, but you can’t get the companionship that LINKS offers from other classes that focus entirely on academics."
LINKS Advisor - Mr Farmer... [email protected]
PLANK
Student Council
While there are high school and middle school components to the platform, Student Council is a service organization whose primary vision is to provide and support memorable events for our student body.
Our PWHS Student Council organizes and puts on Homecoming and Winterfest’s weekly activities, initiatives such as the Christmas Food Drive and the Giving Tree, and aides in the organization of other school assemblies and bringing in guest speakers. Our PWMS Student Council also leads a number of school and student functions – also with an emphasis on servitude to others.
“Being part of Student Council here at PWMHS has been a transformative experience that shaped me both as a leader and as a person. I’ve had the opportunity to help plan events, organize service projects, and represent my classmates in meaningful ways. Student Council taught me how to listen to different perspectives, collaborate effectively, and lead with both confidence and empathy. It wasn’t just about planning dances or spirit weeks - it was about creating a positive school culture and making sure every student felt heard and included.
What I loved most about Student Council was the balance between responsibility and fun. There’s something special about working hard to bring an event to life and then seeing everyone enjoy it. From early morning meetings to coordinating assemblies to helping make our school community better, every moment was filled with laughter, teamwork, and a shared sense of purpose. The friendships I made, the leadership skills I built, and the memories we created together are things I’ll carry with me long after graduation. Student Council gave me a chance to grow and to give back; I’m so grateful I participated.”
HS Student Council Advisor - Mr Bashore... [email protected]
MS Student Council Advisor - Mrs Griffith... [email protected]
Student Voice
Student Voice is a group of leaders within Pewamo-Westphalia High School whose goal is to make the school better in all aspects. Meetings are held every month to discuss issues within our school where students can be open and honest with their thoughts and opinions. Discussions are had on social, academic, athletic issues and more. Student Voice started with few members but has grown to a number that doesn't fit in one of our biggest classrooms in the school.
"Student Voice has been one of my favorite parts about high school. I've been a member for four years and our meetings continue to excite me every month. Being able to be open and honest with a group of leaders whom I have so much respect for is so special. It gives students a voice in everything so we feel included in decisions and resolutions. I love Student Voice and I would recommend it to anyone in a heartbeat, no matter who you are."
HS Student Voice Advisor - Mr Portenga... [email protected]
Students Take Charge
P-W Students Take Charge (PWSTC) is a student-led group with the primary purpose of raising funds to support the school’s needs. PWSTC holds several fundraisers throughout the school year, such as the "Miracle Minute" (during sporting events), sponsoring half-court shots at basketball games, selling candy grams around Valentine's Day, and the Thanksgiving "Turkey Trot" race - in collaboration with P-W Cross Country.
The funds gathered from the PWSTC are allocated to various school causes, with many of them providing support to students in need. Our group donated to the Holiday Meal, helped purchase the games in the cafeteria, and donated scholarships for students going on field trips. PWSTC also provides funds to teachers who have various technology needs in their classrooms.
“Joining PWSTC marked the first time I took on a leadership role in my high school career. Being a leader within the group has taught me many valuable lessons about the importance of taking ownership and pride in your school. Giving back to our school through this club has been a very rewarding experience. Whether it's the Turkey Trot, our Miracle Minute donation run, or another form of raising funds or awareness, we are continually thinking of new creative ways to support the school. I’m proud of the work we have accomplished within PWSTC.”
Students Take Charge Advisor - Mr Feldpausch... [email protected].
Youth Advisory Council
Our PWHS Youth Advisory Council (YAC) is a group of student leaders that meets monthly with other students from various local school districts. The council’s primary purpose is to provide young people with a platform to voice their opinions, engage in community service, and participate in leadership development activities. Members of the YAC often work on projects that benefit their schools and communities - fostering a sense of responsibility and enhancing leadership skills. YAC also grants funds to non-profit youth-focused projects within their communities.
“Being a part of our Youth Advisory Council (YAC) organization has been one of the most meaningful experiences of my high school journey. As a senior, I’ve had the chance to voice my opinions on issues that affect local communities and work directly with adult leaders and organizations to bring about real change. It’s incredibly empowering to know that my ideas and perspectives are taken seriously; I’ve learned how to advocate not only for myself but for my peers as well. YAC has helped me grow into a confident leader, sharpen my communication skills, and understand the impact young people can have when they come together with purpose.
What makes YAC stand out is the platform it provides for collaboration and growth. Whether we were planning community events, participating in leadership workshops, or discussing policies that impact youth, I always felt like I was learning and contributing at the same time. The council gave me a space to connect with other driven students, build lasting friendships, and make a difference in ways I never thought possible as a teenager. As I head off to college, I know the skills and experiences I gained from YAC will stay with me, and I’m grateful for the chance to have been part of something so impactful.”
MS Student Council Advisor - Mrs Martin... [email protected]
National Honors Society
Our Pewamo-Westphalia High School National Honor Society (NHS) - Jim Cotter Chapter is a service-based group that awards membership to students based on their grade-point-average. There are different committees within the group that provide opportunities for service and volunteer work throughout the school and community. Some of these opportunities include... Peer Tutoring, Adopt-A-Highway / M-21 Cleanup, Writing Santa Letters, Recycling, Volunteering within local Assisted Living Centers, Organizing our Annual NHS Induction Ceremony, Hosting Red Cross Blood Drives, etc.
"The feeling that comes with conducting service throughout the community is unmatched. I am grateful that our National Honors Society has provided me with the opportunity to make a difference. Meeting the needs of young students, helping children during the Christmas season, and assisting elderly citizens not only are feel-good experiences, but are greatly appreciated by the loved ones of those assisted. Being a part of the NHS has taught me to extend a helping hand to those around me - something that will stick with me well beyond high school."
National Honors Society Advisor - Ms Pung... [email protected]
