Student Government Sets Sights on Increased Spirit and Connection

New inter-grade events and implementing an A/B club schedule are among the initiatives the student reps are excited about this year. Photo: Midwood Student Government

By SHANZEH FAHID

With fresh faces, big ambitions, and a renewed sense of unity, this year’s student government is ready to turn school spirit into something unforgettable.

This year’s cabinet is led by Mayor Ricardo Torres, alongside Comptroller Zhiqi Li, Coordinator of Events Akash van Koert, Executive Secretary Carol Zhong, and Publicist Kaitlyn Ly. Liaison Officers Maya Itskovich and Jasmina Abidova oversee the school’s more than 90 clubs, ensuring that every student organization operates efficiently.

Representing the student body are the class officers: Senior President Daniel Ghoprial and Vice President Leyla Hamidova, Junior President Senmeri Angaza and Vice President Constance Ng, Sophomore President Kayla Lau and Vice President Brandon Ho, and Freshman Representatives Tho Nguyen and Komron Abidov.

In a year marked by major changes, including the new cell phone policy, the student government is prioritizing stronger communication and student involvement.

“This year, our goal is to get more students engaged,” Li said. “We’ve been focusing a lot on social media and Spirit Week. Jersey Day already had huge participation.”

Li added that organization is key to success under the new A/B club system, where clubs meet on alternating weeks. “With the new schedule, clubs now have more time to plan events,” he said. “Their activities are more organized and aligned with their mission.”

Abidova, who manages club operations alongside Itskovich, echoed that sentiment.

“Our priorities this year are to boost school spirit and make sure every student feels represented in the student government,” Abidova said. “My job is to make sure everything’s running smoothly and that all clubs feel supported.”

For van Koert, accessibility and inclusion are at the heart of his mission. “We want every event this year to be something everyone can participate in,” he said. “No one should feel excluded socially or physically.”

He also emphasized the importance of preparation. “Last year there were some issues with planning, but this time we’re determined to stay on top of everything and keep all events running smoothly,” van Koert said.

Among the government’s upcoming projects are the senior trip, prom, and new inter-grade events such as the Spectacular Showdown, which will bring freshmen and sophomores together for a day of interactive activities.

For Torres, this year is about refining what already makes Midwood strong and leaving behind something lasting.

“Last year’s government set a high bar with how visible and active they were,” Torres said. “This year, we want to keep that momentum while staying organized and adapting to challenges like the new phone ban.”

Torres often reminds his cabinet of one guiding phrase: “Earn your echo.”

“It means: yes, we do a lot, but what legacy are we leaving behind?” Torres said. “What impact will people remember after we’re gone?”

Ghoprial shared a similar focus on legacy and transparency.

“Being senior president is a very fulfilling role,” Ghoprial said. “This year, we’re focusing on transparency and accountability, both within the student body and the government. We want students to know what we’re doing, why we’re doing it, and how it benefits them.”

From increasing school spirit to improving organization and inclusion, Midwood’s 2025–2026 reps are determined to make this one of the school’s most connected years yet.

“I really want to make sure we do our best in everything we do,” Torres said. “We have a lot of pressure this year, but we’re handling it well, and I’m proud of my government for that.”

With fresh faces, renewed energy, and a shared commitment to earning their echo, this year’s student government is ready to leave its mark on Midwood.