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Student Leadership

Student Leadership

Student leadership is a core part of Academia Cotopaxi’s pedagogical commitment. Beginning in elementary school, students are invited to participate in meaningful leadership opportunities that are nurtured, scaffolded, and strengthened as they grow.

At Academia Cotopaxi, students are:

  • Taught to lead
  • Encouraged to take on leadership roles
  • Given opportunities to learn from others
  • Supported in developing their leadership skills over time

Leadership Structures Available to Students

Elementary School Student Council

The Elementary Student Council is a student action group open to students in Grades 1–5. To ensure broad participation, the council operates in three rotating groups across the school year.

Students focus on strengthening the elementary community by identifying what matters most to their peers and developing projects to address those needs. Projects may include community improvement, play and recess initiatives, or social action efforts.

Middle School House Leaders

From Grades 6–12, students belong to one of four Ecuador-inspired Houses: Bears, Jaguars, Sharks, or Toucans. Students remain in their House through graduation.

Each House elects two student representatives at the start of the year. Middle School House Leaders serve as community role models and organize important events such as House Competitions and Middle School Socials.

High School Associated Student Body (ASB)

The Associated Student Body (ASB) is Academia Cotopaxi’s student government and the primary leadership organization for high school students. Its purpose is to:

  • Encourage student involvement and enthusiasm in all school activities
  • Provide real opportunities to practice democracy and good citizenship
  • Represent student ideas and aspirations as a bridge to school leadership

The ASB is led by an Executive Council (President and Vice President elected by the student body) and two House Captains elected within each House. ASB elections take place every March.


National Honor Society (NHS)

The National Honor Society recognizes students who exemplify scholarship, service, leadership, and character. Students in Grades 7–8 (NJHS) and 10-12 (NHS) with a GPA of 5.75 or higher (7-point scale) are invited to apply at the beginning of the academic year. Applications are reviewed and voted on by a faculty advisory board.

NHS students lead service initiatives such as:

  • Faculty appreciation events
  • Peer tutoring and academic support
  • The annual food drive supporting Quito’s food bank

Service Learning Opportunities

Each year, this organization elects a President, Vice President, and Treasurer at the end of the school year to lead the organization throughout the upcoming academic year.

Model United Nations

Members of the Model United Nations program work together to prepare for, and run, MUN conferences locally and internationally. Participants in this organization must commit to attending regularly scheduled practice sessions after school. Each year, this organization elects a President and Vice President at the end of the school year to lead the organization throughout the upcoming academic year.

Student-Led Clubs and Activities

Student-Led Clubs are central to the high school (Grades 9-12) experience and reflect our commitment to student agency, responsibility, and ownership. Clubs and activities are created and run entirely by students, based on their interests and passions. This model encourages students to move beyond participation and step into authentic leadership roles.

Student Ambassadors

Student Ambassadors are the welcoming face of Academia Cotopaxi for new and visiting families. Ambassadors are positive, outgoing, and proud to represent AC. Students must demonstrate maturity, professionalism, and strong interpersonal skills. Participation is open to students in Grades 4–12 (Grade 4 students may join starting second semester).

Student Voice Committee

The Student Voice Committee is a select leadership group at Academia Cotopaxi dedicated to strengthening our school community through meaningful student input. Members work closely with the School Director to share perspectives, highlight opportunities for growth, and collaborate on initiatives that support our vision. This structure empowers students to engage in thoughtful, strategic, and impactful leadership—helping shape a school environment where every voice matters.

Student Athlete Council

Members of the Student Athlete Council are members of our Junior Varsity and Varsity athletic teams committed to the growth and development of our athletics program and school spirit at Academia Cotopaxi. All student-athletes are welcome to volunteer for this important leadership group.

Social Opportunities at Academia Cotopaxi

Academia Cotopaxi offers a full calendar of social events that build friendships, school spirit, and a strong sense of belonging.

Middle & High School Events

  • Middle School Socials: Hosted several times per year by House Leaders. Students stay after school on Fridays to socialize together. The year ends with a Middle School formal dance.
  • Haunted House: Organized each October by the High School ASB during the annual Fun Run.
  • “Not-So-Scary” Haunted House: A more inclusive version hosted by Middle School House Leaders for younger students and families.
  • Senior Brunch: Held every September for Grade 12 students and families to build community during their final year.
  • House Competitions: Regular, fun competitions across Houses (Grades 6–12). Points build toward the annual House Cup.
  • Student-Led Assemblies: House Leaders and ASB representatives design assemblies that strengthen division pride and connection.
  • Grade-Level Integration Activities: Coordinated by Grade-Level Parent Representatives to foster community within each cohort.
  • Coreografías (International Festival): Every year, grade levels in secondary work together to create a choreographed dance to be performed in front of thousands of attendees at our International Festival in May. Students select grade level representatives to lead their class in organizing this exciting performance.
  • Fiestas de Quito: December celebrations featuring grade-level performances, school decorations, and traditional Quito foods and games.
  • Carnaval Celebrations: Students host an afternoon of water and foam games honoring this Latin American tradition.
  • Seniors’ Last Day / “Throwback Thursday”: At the end of April, ASB celebrates Grade 12’s final day of classes with activities, water games, and a paint war before IB exams begin.

  • Prom: In the 2026-27 school year, our High School will be organizing its first school-sponsored Prom, scheduled to be held Friday, April 23rd, and open to our Academia Cotopaxi students in grades 9-12. This will be a formal dance and celebration where student volunteers will be established to support the development of this new school tradition!

Sports and Activities

Students can participate in sports and activities starting in elementary school, with opportunities expanding each year through Extended Learning, recreational programs, and competitive athletics.

Extended Learning is included in annual tuition, making it an excellent way for students to explore interests beyond the classroom—from arts and languages to recreational sports and enrichment activities. Visit our Extended Learning Program page to learn more.

JV and Varsity athletics are also a major part of student life at Academia Cotopaxi. Whether students are athletes or enthusiastic Cougar fans, school sports promote teamwork, pride, and community connection. Learn more on our Athletics page.

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