Leading with VOICE: What Student Government Is All About

Welcome to the DAIS/DHS Student Government!

StuGov is the students’ VOICE, and here is what it stands for: “V” represents voicing student concerns; “O” represents organizing school events; “I” represents inspiring school spirit; “C” represents creating a positive, supportive environment; “E” represents empowering students to reach the best of their ability.  

Indeed, we, as Student Government members and officers, are a group of students who work collaboratively to derive a variety of events to help the student body feel a sense of belonging in our DAIS/DHS community. We are proud of being part of StuGov as this is one of the organizations that plays a vital role in making our school a place where every student can truly thrive. 

^{House event}

As for the structure of StuGov, our advisor is Mr. Kuropatwinski with six officers:  

• DAIS President: Natalie He 
• DAIS Secretary: Suah Lee 
• DAIS Treasurer: Austin Li 
• DHS President: Jack Wang 
• DHS Vice President: Susan Li 
• DHS Treasurer: Cindy Gao 

This year, we have more than 30 enthusiastic members to provide their unique insights and concrete actions in enriching our students’ school life. 

Now, without much cliché, let’s move on to check out what StuGov has done up to now! 

Previous events of this school year

In September 2024, we hosted the first official event of the school year: Sports Day. Our student body was deeply intrigued by the diverse sporting activities such as handball, volleyball, relay race, and the Buzkashi race.

Later, we hosted the Monster Mash, which was considered one of the biggest events as many students and parents from outside the school also came to celebrate this special day. StuGov members worked tirelessly to derive a variety of games and hands-on activities, which later received praise from students, parents, and teachers.  

^{Monster Mash}

Then, let’s move on to Winter Dance, an event that was hosted after all the first-semester final exams so that our students not only obtained the unique opportunity of socializing with friends but also having some time to take a break.

In the second semester, the first huge event that we hosted was Lock-in. On this day, students stayed at school for the entire 12 hours from 6 pm to 6 am in which food, snacks, activities, and games were sufficiently provided. 

^{Talent Show}

The next event that we worked towards was the Talent Show, which took place in April. Students were able to showcase their unique talents, such as singing, dancing, and music performances, to our student body.

Then, you may ask: what’s next?

The last event that StuGov will host for this school year will be the PROM! While all high schoolers are welcome, this event holds special significance for seniors who will graduate soon and are looking to create meaningful memories with their friends. Indeed, the quick elapse of time is best illustrated by the quote “Time flies over us but leaves its shadow behind.” This further motivates us to cherish every minute of our lives, so don’t miss out on this last event!  

Words of encouragement  

Finally, 5 out of the 6 officers are seniors who will graduate shortly in a few months. It is disheartening to see StuGov officers and members leaving, so these officers prepared some words of encouragement for next year’s members and officers: 

Hello prospective, enthusiastic, creative members and officers! We are the senior StuGov officers this year who are passionate about giving you guys some tips. First, please always have faith in yourself. All of us started from scratch when we first joined StuGov. Taking myself (Susan) as an example, I can still recall the feeling of anxiety and uncertainty when I first stepped into the classroom. Honestly, I had no idea what this class was about and what I was supposed to do. Therefore, please remember that you will always contribute uniquely to this class, so never doubt your ability.  

^{Christmas themed house event}

Second, SHARE YOUR VOICE! Do not be shy! If you have any ideas, please shout them out, these are the things that we truly value in this organization.

Lastly, ENJOY! Although you will help organize and assist with a variety of events, the BIGGEST task for you is to enjoy working at this organization and learn more skills as much as possible.  

We, the five senior officers, truly have high hopes for all of you! We wish all future members and officers the best in the next school year!

Written by: Susan Li
DAIS/DHS Class of 2025
DHS StuGov Vice President