Freshman elections kicked off Friday, Oct. 11, with 29 candidates from the Class of 2028 delivering speeches and running for a place in the student council. Students had a difficult decision to make with a limited number of votes for each place with one for class president, four for class vice presidents, and four for the Student Faculty Administration (SFA).

 In their speeches, candidates discussed various ideas for fundraising, class events, and open campus privileges. The class elected freshman Neil Aneja as class president and freshmen Molly Abely, Tamar Cohen, Noga Fogel, and Alyssa Yasuhara as class vice presidents. The newly elected representatives are now beginning to make plans for the school year.

In his speech, Aneja discussed plans for spirit weeks, class fundraisers, sports resources, open campus, and general ways to make student life more fun. Now that he has been elected, Aneja said he plans to focus on fundraising in a student-centric way. Some of his ideas for these kinds of events are movie nights, auctions for privileges at school, and a homecoming dance.

“Small joys can have a big impact on day-to-day life,” said Aneja, adding that “together we can create a vibrant and supportive community at Newton North.” 

The elected vice presidents shared similar ideas in their speeches about community building and raising money for class events and dances. 

“I believe having fun should be part of our high school experience,” said Fogel.

Looking to the future, the vice presidents discussed goals to raise money through fundraising events and dances, which will eventually go towards Junior and Senior prom.

The class elected freshmen Ashlyn Baugher, Dahawn DaRocha, Maggie Edwards, and Lucia Grapski as SFA representatives, who spoke about off-campus privileges, homework-free weekends, mental health resources, and WIN options.

“I want to create a positive environment at Newton North High School,” said Edwards.

The elected SFA members plan to focus on elevating the voices of their peers, along with fixing issues surrounding mess and the lack of menstrual products in bathrooms.

According to Cohen, speaking in front of an entire auditorium of peers was nerve-wracking.

“When I got up on that stage to present my campaign speech, I felt nervous, restless, but excited,” said Cohen, adding that “I remember that I could hear my heart racing at any moment I was not speaking, but afterward, I was proud of myself for being capable of speaking in front of our entire grade.”

DaRocha noted that feeling well-prepared for the speech helped boost his confidence.

 “I prepared for the election by practicing and getting the hang of my speech and how I would perform it,” said DaRocha, adding that “even though I was uncertain of the outcome, I was certainly not worried.”

Aneja noted feeling nervous about the coming year.

“I am feeling a little bit nervous for the term. Will I represent the Freshmen well? Will I raise enough money?” said Aneja. “I know the best I can do is give everything I can, and that is what I plan to do. I know that with the help of my vice presidents and the SFA, this year will be great.”

Cohen shared similar nerves and excitement.

 “Now that I am elected, I am excited to get this year started,” said Cohen.“I want to make sure that this year is amazing for our entire freshman class, and I now have the power to do so.”