North York High student-athlete leadership team showcases community service and growth

The Wa-Nee Community Schools board heard a presentation from the North York High School Student Athlete Leadership Team on their efforts to build leadership and serve the community. Kyle, the high schoolassistant athletic director, introduced student speakers who described SALT (Student Athlete Leadership Team) as a nominated group that organizes athletic-focused events and volunteer opportunities.

Student presenters said the group includes about 19 students this year and meets twice a month to plan events, review outcomes and recruit across sports. "We raised several hundred dollars and donated to organizations like FCDC and Open Door," one student said, adding that members attended a leadership summit at Grace College to share ideas with peers from other schools.

Students highlighted a large food drop and packing event coordinated with a local church; the district thanked the students for their role in a distribution the board described as about 8,700 pounds of food serving roughly 6,400 families. "It was great to see so many North York students representing," a trustee said, praising the partnership with the church and the work of the students.

Students described practical steps they use to maintain engagement — meeting every other week, testing small incentives such as snacks to boost attendance, and planning a wider slate of events and tailgates with improved advertising. They said the program started in 2021 or 2022 and has expanded since.

Board members thanked the students for their service and encouraged continued participation. The recognition segment closed with trustees inviting students to remain for the rest of the meeting.