THE POWER of Leadership
In the Senior School, we began this past school year with a clear intention: to nurture a sense of belonging where students feel safe to show up fully as themselves, to be seen and heard, and to know that they matter. A sense of belonging doesn’ t ask students to compromise who they are, but instead celebrates the individual within the collective.
When this kind of connection is present— when students feel valued and supported— it paves the way for something even more powerful: agency. This year, we saw agency take root in our students in imaginative and authentic ways. Agency, in this context, is more than initiative; it’ s a reflection of confidence, autonomy, and community. It’ s the belief that your voice matters, your choices are meaningful, and your actions can make a difference.
In the Senior School, that belief translated into action. Students proposed and led new clubs that reflected their passions and interests, contributed meaningfully to wellness programming, and created systems of peer support that are already shaping a stronger, more connected school community. These leadership efforts were not driven by hierarchy or titles, but by a shared desire to support one another and to shape a school culture that reflects our CHS values of courage, creativity, and citizenship.
The stories in this article are a testament to the strength of student leadership when it is rooted in belonging and voice. They remind us that when young people are trusted and empowered, they don’ t just lead— they transform the communities around them.
Michelle Douglas Director, Senior School
BELONGING, AGENCY & EMPOWERING STUDENT LEADERSHIP
Students thrive and gain confidence when they feel a sense of belonging and have meaningful opportunities to actively participate in their community. In the Senior School, our commitment to belonging is seen through expanding ways students can share ideas, join community discussions, and lead through more co-curriculars, involvement in wellness, and peer support programs.
EXPANDED CO-CURRICULAR CHOICE
In response to feedback from students and parents through annual surveys, the Senior School introduced three new clubs at the start of the 2024 – 2025 school year— all of which were proposed by students.
Chess Club: Recognizing the absence of a dedicated board games club, Club Captain Gillian, Grade 11, launched the Chess Club. It has attracted 15 regular members along with several drop-ins each week, and features free play and lessons led by Gillian. In November, Chess Club hosted a special event at the
Winter Bazaar with competitive chess player Penny Pham, a Women’ s International Master and multiple-time Vietnam Women’ s Chess Champion.
“ I felt that if there was an environment where people could be comfortable just playing and having a community that can support them, people would be more likely to stay involved,” Gillian said.
Flute Choir: The Flute Choir, led by Club Captain Daphne, Grade 11, provides flautists with a dedicated space to collaborate and enhance their musical skills. With a membership of 10 to 15 regular participants, each meeting includes warm-ups, skill practices, and ensemble work on pieces!“ When everyone’ s playing together, we can all feel the passion for that music. It’ s like nothing else,” Daphne said.
Film Club: Film Club meets weekly to explore various film-related projects and watch movies. With 10 regular attendees, the club fosters a casual yet educational environment where members can drop in, socialize, and engage in discussions about cinema.“ Being a Club Captain has helped me come out of my shell, and it’ s been interesting to take baby steps with leading a small group, especially about something that I feel confident
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