During the past few weeks, the M3 students were involved in a voting process to choose the M3 leaders. We were informed that if you were interested in running for one of the student leader positions, you would have to run a campaign, put up posters or whatever it takes to earn votes. We were also informed that in order to be a leader we had to set a good example for others.

Days before the election everywhere you went in the M3 building you could see posters declaring candidates for Head Boy, Head Girl, Deputy Head Girl and Deputy Head Boy. Students were excited because they knew their vote could make a difference.

Although this would be fun, it was also for learning. Before students could vote, we learned about the rules and expectations of the voting process. We learned about invalid votes. In Social Studies with Mr. Calvin Hayward, we learned about the history of voting and many of us came away understanding it is a process not to be taken for granted.

On election day, M3 students eagerly waited to vote. In class, we were called up one by one to drop our vote in the ballot box. When all the votes had been counted, from students and teachers, a decision had been reached.

In Monday morning's assembly, the tension was thick as nominees waited nervously for the announcement. Our new student leaders were revealed. Applause filled the hall. While some were obviously disappointed, we are committed to helping our new student leaders fulfill their roles.

We are Whitney!

Thoughts from the successful candidates

"I decided to run for Head Boy because I wanted to serve. Running for Head Boy was an extension of work in Youth Parliament. My success in the election is a wonderful feeling. I expect this event will develop my leadership skills even more. I will try to be a good role model for all my peers at Whitney Institute" – Head Boy, Kjeld Conyers-Steede.

"I believe it is a great honour to be Head Girl. Being Head Girl means that I am an example for my peers. I will try my best to have a good attitude towards people. I will encourage my fellow student leaders to carry out their duties so that it will have a positive effect on the student body" – Head Girl, Rodneyka Freeman.

"As Deputy Head Boy, my role is to back up the Head Boy. I will set a good example as a responsible and respectful member of our school community and when the Head Boy is unable to fulfill his duty I will step in on his behalf. We will work as a team to promote and live up to our school creed Magnanimiter crucem sustine (Keep the faith with the greatness of spirit)" – Deputy Head Boy, Zahnouri Gilbert.

"I am glad to be known as Deputy Head Girl at Whitney Institute Middle School. I always have a good attitude, which makes me approachable to others. I have good time management skills and am a team player. I will need to be more confident when I represent the school in the wider community, but I will do my best and am thankful for this opportunity" – Deputy Head Girl, ShaVondae' Trott.