Imagine a group of students who are the heartbeat of Renton High School, organizing epic events, championing student voices, and making every day a little brighter. That’s our Renton High ASB (Associate Student Body) – where leadership meets school spirit, and every student is a part of the action.
Do you ever wonder who takes charge behind the scenes? Well, at Renton’s ASB there is an amazing and inspiring advisor who not only leads them but also supports them to make a difference in our school spirit life. I talked with the advisor Mrs. McCullough, and I asked her some questions about her experience teaching at Renton High School and what it’s like to be the advisor of ASB. The first question I asked her was, what is your career like? She replied, “I would say that I’ve had a career both in the medical and the education field; I’ve learned so much…I’m still learning!” I then asked her, what advice would you give to a high school student? She answered, “Explore and try opportunities that are given to you because in trying you will realize your passion.” The next question I asked was, what was your experience when first becoming an ASB advisor? She stated, “As with anything new, I was scared to make mistakes and disappoint people, especially students.” I then asked, what is your experience like with ASB? She shares, “ASB is student-driven. I am in awe of teenagers! You all are so creative and have great ideas! I love seeing how you all grow and mature and become leaders.” How is Spirit Week determined? This was the next question, in which she answered with, “Spirit week ideas come from a collaboration of Student Council (ASB + Clubs) and Leadership students.” I also asked, what are some challenges you have? She stated, “There are always challenges – meeting deadlines, cancellations, reschedules; it’s a matter of pivoting and being flexible.” Then I said, can you explain more about the role of ASB in organizing school events and activities? She explained, “There are many school events and activities that happen throughout the year. ASB’s role is to organize, plan, and execute these as best they can. This year ASB and Clubs have united as one – Student Council. More students + more ideas = more fun!” Finally, I asked, what advice would you give to someone looking to get involved in ASB or planning Spirit Week activities? Mrs. McCullough answered, “ASB is open to anyone looking to get involved in any or all of the school activities – join the support team! Come to any Monday meetings in room 221, starting at 2:15 pm. You’ll hear about upcoming events/activities. We love to hear from you!”
(Picture of the Renton Spirit Squad logo @Rentonspiritsquad on Instagram where you can find information on spirit weeks, school events, sport state send-offs, etc.)
How does Mrs. McCullough encourage participation in ASB and Spirit Week activities? “I try to welcome anyone who has an interest in ASB by telling them to come attend Monday meetings. Also, RentonSpiritSquad is always being updated to keep everyone informed of upcoming events. Memories I cherish are those from individual students who start off being shy then suddenly shine and show off their leadership skills.”
Being an advisor for a student leadership organization takes effort and flexibility even though it’s student-driven by officers who are running an organization with an advisor leading them. Thank you, Mrs. McCullough! Reflecting back on the interview we can see that there are so many ways for students to connect and make a difference in our school spirit!
