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 House Captains elected within each House. ASB elections take place every April.
National Honor Society (NHS)
The National Honor Society recognizes students who exemplify scholarship, service, leadership, and character. Students in Grades 10–12 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
- National Junior Honor Society (NJHS)
The National Junior Honor Society serves students in Grades 7–8, reflecting the same values and expectations as the NHS while supporting middle school leadership and service.
Student-Led Clubs
Student-Led Clubs are central to the high school experience and reflect our commitment to student agency, responsibility, and ownership. Clubs 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 9–12 (Grade 9 students may join starting second semester).
Community Engagement
Community engagement is embedded throughout student learning and leadership:
Integrated into Units of Inquiry in Early Years and Elementary
- As part of Pre-CAS in Grades 6–10
- As part of CAS in Grades 11–12
- Student Voice Committee
The Student Voice Committee is a select leadership group focused on identifying areas where student experience can better align with the school’s mission. Members meet regularly with the School Director and help guide impactful, strategic initiatives that strengthen the AC community.
Community Engagement
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 mission. This structure empowers students to engage in thoughtful, strategic, and impactful leadership—helping shape a school environment where every voice matters.
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): Held in May, Middle and High School students perform dance competitions that showcase teamwork, creativity, and class spirit.
- 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.
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.
