We are proud to announce that our Morrow House (grades 5–8) student council has received the 2026 ASCA Student Council School of Excellence Award for the second year in a row, presented by the National Association of Elementary School Principals (NAESP) and the American Student Council Association (ASCA). EMS is one of just 54 schools nationwide to earn the honor in 2026.
The awards were announced during National Student Leadership Week, celebrated April 20–24. This recognition highlights the dedication of our Morrow House student leaders in fostering community service, leadership, citizenship, and school spirit.
New this year, EMS also celebrates advisor Erin Hennessy, who has been named a 2026 ASCA Exemplary Advisor — one of only 25 educators across the country recognized for going above and beyond in supporting and inspiring student leaders.
“When schools invest in leadership development for all students — grounded in the courage to find and develop potential in every individual — they are not just building better student leaders,” says Ms. Hennessy. “We are building more confident, compassionate, and civically engaged citizens who understand their responsibility to one another and to the world, and who are inspired to effect positive change wherever they go.”
Our student leaders reflected on what this year’s work has meant to them. “I initially thought that leadership was a solo journey,” says eighth-grader Arabelle S. “However, leading student government and working with different people across different grades has completely shifted my perspective. After various projects and this award, I realize that true leadership is a shared responsibility rooted in listening to diverse ideas and thoughtfully serving our entire school community.”
Camellia G., a seventh-grader who served on the Spirit Committee, echoed that theme — and pointed to a standout moment from the year: “One thing I’ve learned about leadership from being part of student council is working together. Before I started student council, I was so used to working alone. Student council taught me how to listen and add on to others’ ideas to create something great.” Her proudest moment? Organizing a pep rally for Field Day. “It was really fun to come up with cheers with my friends from student council,” she says. “It will be a moment I’ll never forget.”
Congratulations to our Morrow House student council and to Erin Hennessy on this well-deserved recognition!
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