Students highlight schoolhouse systems and charity Halloween events that engage Elko community

Two student-led presentations at the Elko County School District board meeting highlighted local initiatives designed to build school community and support a local animal shelter.

T. Dub Cunningham, principal of Southside Elementary, introduced the school’s house system pilot, which students described as a way to unite the school, encourage competencies such as communication and collaboration, and award points through ClassDojo for monthly house parties and assemblies. Students said teachers can award points to any student for behaviors such as being solution-oriented and showing advocacy; the highest-scoring house wins rewards such as pizza parties.

Adobe Middle School student council president Annie McConnell and fellow student officers outlined Hawks Halloween, a family event scheduled for Oct. 30 that raises donations for the Elko County animal shelter. McConnell said student-led planning included hall themes (Ghostbusters, Hocus Pocus, The Nightmare Before Christmas), measuring halls for decorations and a class-level candy collection competition. She reported the school has collected 339.5 pounds of candy so far, with several classes noted as leaders in the drive.

Trustees praised the presentations and encouraged continued community outreach; one trustee suggested partnering with the shelter for promotional photos to boost donations. The board thanked students and staff and invited participants and honorees to pose for photos after the meeting.

Both presentations were received for information; no formal board action was required or taken.