Haig Councils: What Do They Do?

Baran Ghaforian

News

Earl Haig Secondary School is by no means a small school. In fact, clocking in at around 2,000 students this year, it is one of the largest public secondary schools in Ontario. With a student population this large, you would need a well-organized system and adept student leaders. Thankfully, Earl Haig has a Student Activity Council, better known as SAC.

As the school's student-led government, SAC is responsible for the majority of activities and events held at the school.

“[SAC] manages the student body. It especially helps students feel connected and engaged. Our job this year has been to get out as many events as possible,” states SAC’s vice president, Elisa Penha.

Examples of these events are November's Suspense Film Festival, Orange Shirt Day, and the Volunteer Fair.

In addition to the main council, SAC has several “feeder councils'' that assist the school in more niche activities: Earl Haig Athletic Council, Arts Council, Eco Council, Clubs Council, and Junior Council. These councils work in conjunction with SAC, but target certain areas of the social or educational flow. Junior Council, for example, is specifically targeted to Grade 9s and 10s.

Elly Peng, the Junior Mayor on Student Activity Council and Junior Council president, says, “We hold events juniors would find interesting, … spirit weeks, assemblies, online game nights. We also have helpful resources such as a contact list for staff and weekly reminders on our Instagram [@haigjuniorcouncil].”

Earl Haig offers even more opportunities for students in terms of clubs and councils. Leader’s Collective, various sports teams, and the Earl Haig Newcomers Club are all examples of places Haigers can explore their interests. Whether they want to create and share art, help enrich their community, or compete in athletics, there’s a place to do so.

The events these organizations plan help make new students feel welcome, and gives students a chance to learn more about their school.

“One thing I love is seeing people come into [Junior Council] and grow within it. It’s almost like a pre-council that helps you explore your options,” says Elly.

In addition to Earl Haig’s strong academics, it offers a variety of extracurricular opportunities to its students. So, put yourself out there! Join recreational clubs that interest you, challenge yourself in academic clubs, and explore the Earl Haig community.