Ava Rodio for Junior Class Vice President

In your opinion, what is/are the most pressing issue(s) for HHS students this year?

I believe the most pressing issue for Hammonton High School students this year is making it the most memorable as possible given the circumstances. Although Covid-19 guidelines are strict, it is still possible to be high-spirited and have a wonderful year. By planning safe and fun events, we will all have a year that we can look back on and smile. Our students need to be lifted up in this time of uncertainty and that is what I plan to do as Vice President of the junior class.

What is important about this year/grade (i.e. freshman year, sophomore year, junior year, senior year), and what role do you believe class officers have in making it a successful one?

Junior year is known for being the toughest one academically in high school. The stress of schoolwork and starting to plan out the next step in life, whatever it may be, is never an easy thing to manage. In my opinion, class officers are important because they are there to lighten up their peers’ school experience. They plan school events that can take stress off of everyone’s mind. Even if it is only for a short amount of time, students will have something other than problems to solve.

What are some of the strengths of the HHS student community?

One of the strengths in the HHS community that I admire is the ability to overcome obstacles. Although we have only been in school for a short while, we have done a great job at marking uncharted territory with the hybrid version of school. Everyone is trying their best to learn and thrive in this restrictive environment.

What are some areas of the HHS experience that could be better?

I believe, specifically this year, the social aspect of HHS is lacking, Understandably, the classes are smaller and there are just overall less kids to create the lively atmosphere that we need. A very large part of how students can relax and feel comfortable at school is their welcoming friends. Laughing and creating bonds is something that I think is very crucial to succeeding in high school. Without familiar faces school can become something students dread, and then cause them to not try their best.

Write one question that WE SHOULD HAVE ASKED YOU BUT DIDN’T. Then answer it!

Why do you want to run for class office? I want to run for class office because I enjoy planning school events and lifting morale. This year I think it is more important than ever to do all I can to help the school feel as normal as possible. I know there are circumstances that make this goal seem unachievable, but I do believe it is possible. Our school has given me a great first couple of years and I want the rest to be even better. My peers deserve a great year, and hopefully they trust me with that task.