The campus of Effort Baptist Church School buzzed with energy and excitement on Friday as 12th grader Terrence Baller of the Student Unification Party (SUP) was elected President of the Student Council in what school authorities hailed as a free, fair, and transparent process.
Baller, who emerged victorious as the SUP standard-bearer, expressed elation and gratitude shortly after the announcement of the results.
"I feel amazing. I feel great," Baller said. "I came with the intention of winning, not losing, and I did."
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He added that his victory was no surprise. "The ball was already in my court. I just needed to play the right way. I had the confidence from the beginning," he explained.
The newly elected student leader pledged to foster a school environment where every student feels valued and included.
"I promised them that we're going to have a school environment where everyone feels special," Baller declared. "We're going to introduce new initiatives that this school may be lacking and make this an institution every student is proud to be part of."
While he did not disclose every detail of his platform, Baller assured his peers that action on his promises would begin within three months.
"In three months, they should expect action. I am willing to serve. I am willing to accomplish my goals and the promises I made to the fullest of my ability," he said.
Baller also extended an olive branch to his opponents, emphasizing unity over rivalry.
"We all want a better school. If my opponents are willing to share their ideas, we can work together to make this institution stronger," he said.
He concluded his remarks by thanking students, administrators, and supporters. "Thank you to everyone who believed in me and supported me. Together, we will make this school great."
Gabriel Gipe, Chairperson of the Election Committee, described the process as rigorous but highly successful.
"It was hectic, but we made it," Gipe said. "Our children demonstrated what they have been taught in the classroom. Today was practical civic education in action."
Gipe revealed that 587 students participated in the election despite larger overall enrollment. Party representatives, alumni observers, members of the press, parents, and school administrators were present during the counting of ballots.
"The counting was done openly. Party executives sat at the table. Observers were there. Nothing was hidden. I can confidently grade this election at 90 percent," Gipe said. He added that no formal complaints were received, underscoring the credibility of the process.
"There is no small election," he stressed. "We are preparing these students for national leadership tomorrow. They must learn the processes of governance from now."
Gipe also called on parents, particularly PTA executives, to be more actively involved in student-led initiatives. "The administration cannot do it alone. We need stronger parental participation when such democratic processes are organized," he said.
The Principal of Effort Baptist Church School, who has served the institution for nearly three decades, praised the conduct of students and the integrity of the election.
"Discipline comes first here," the principal emphasized. "The students were given clear rules, and they followed them."
The school head affirmed that the election was conducted transparently. Even when a minor concern arose during ballot counting, the concerned party was allowed to review the ballots and later expressed satisfaction with the process.
"It was free, fair, and transparent," the principal confirmed.
Speaking on Baller's character, the principal described him as a well-behaved and committed student.
"He has been here for years and has maintained good conduct. With proper guidance, I believe he will grow into effective leadership," the principal said, noting that student leaders operate within a learning curve and receive mentorship from the administration.
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The administration reiterated its commitment to collaborating with the new student leadership.
"When they bring their plans forward, we will assess them. If they align with the interest of the school, we will support them. Leadership is about learning and guidance," the Principal added.
Closing the engagement, the Principal encouraged parents to consider Effort Baptist Church School a safe and disciplined learning environment.
"We offer quality education. Discipline comes first. A child may be academically brilliant, but without character and discipline, they cannot succeed in the larger society," the Principal stressed, assuring that the school remains committed to academic excellence, character development, and student safety.
