WRENTHAM — Superintendent Dr. Rich Drolet and Principal Nicole Bottomley are pleased to share that the King Philip Regional High School Student Council successfully hosted its first-ever Freshman Leadership Day on Sept. 24, welcoming the Class of 2029 into the school community.
The event, held in the Wooden Gym, was designed to give ninth-grade students a strong introduction to high school life by combining engaging activities, peer-led experiences, and meaningful conversations about leadership and belonging.
Ninth-graders participated in interactive games, listened to inspiring speeches, and elected their class officers during the event. Students also selected their peers to serve in key leadership roles:
- Class President, Teddy Lopes
- Vice President, Nicky Monti
- Treasurer, Isabella Pennini
- Secretary, Stephanie LeBlanc
- Student Council Representatives, Nyla Kelly and Jeffrey Cleverdon
A highlight of the day was a presentation by Evren Gundez, founder of Enjoy Life Education and a mental strength and athletic coach, who spoke about the importance of embracing opportunities during high school.
Through real-life examples and interactive activities, Gundez encouraged students to fully engage in their education and community, reminding them that “the quality of life, and your high school experience, is based solely on the quality you put into it.”
Research from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention measured “school connectedness,” and showed that, as of 2023, only 55% of high school students nationally agreed or strongly agreed that they felt close to people at their school. King Philip student leaders say events like Freshman Leadership Day are meant to change that.
Principal Bottomley praised the Student Council for its initiative in creating the new program.
“Our student leaders saw a need to help younger classmates feel more connected and took action,” said Principal Bottomley. “We are proud of the work they have done to ensure that every student at King Philip feels welcomed and valued.”
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