Berkshire Fourth-Graders Lead With Service

Student council members present their community work to school board

Mar. 12, 2026 at 8:00am

Eleven members of the Berkshire Elementary School fourth grade student council told the Berkshire Schools Board of Education on March 9 how they have been serving students, staff, and the community since the council formed last year. The student council was formed with 45 applicants, and 18 students currently serve on the council working on various projects.

Why it matters

The Berkshire Elementary School student council's community service efforts demonstrate the leadership and civic engagement of young students, which can inspire other schools to empower their students to take on similar initiatives and make a positive impact.

The details

The fourth-grade student council members presented to the school board on their various service projects, including helping with school events, supporting fellow students, and contributing to the broader community. The council was formed with a highly competitive application process, indicating strong interest from the student body in taking on leadership roles.

  • The Berkshire Elementary School fourth grade student council formed last year.
  • The students presented to the Berkshire Schools Board of Education on March 9, 2026.

The players

Berkshire Elementary School

A public elementary school in Chardon, Ohio that has a fourth grade student council.

Heather Giel

The principal of Berkshire Elementary School.

Lisa Starr

A teacher at Berkshire Elementary School who oversees the fourth grade student council.

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What they’re saying

“It speaks to their interest in being leaders. It was very encouraging and very difficult.”

— Lisa Starr, Teacher

The takeaway

The Berkshire Elementary School fourth grade student council's community service efforts demonstrate the leadership and civic engagement of young students, which can inspire other schools to empower their students to take on similar initiatives and make a positive impact in their local communities.