Bill Childress Elementary earns prestigious ASCA School of Excellence Award, only school in region to receive national recognition

The student council at Bill Childress Elementary just proved they are in a leadership league of their own—snagging the region’s only 2025 Student Council School of Excellence award from the American Student Council Association (ASCA).

This prestigious national recognition is awarded to student councils that demonstrate excellence in leadership, citizenship, community service and school spirit. 

BCE Principal Maria Varela said the recognition is a reflection of the commitment and leadership shown by students and staff alike.

“I couldn’t be prouder of our student leaders and the entire BCE family,” Varela said. “This award is a testament to how our students are learning to lead with empathy and purpose. They’ve shown that even at a young age, they can make a real difference in their school and their community.”

The award reflects the hard work, dedication and creativity of BCE’s student council, which has led a variety of service projects and campus-wide initiatives aimed at promoting kindness, inclusion and community involvement.

Throughout the year, the BCE student council organized several impactful projects, including taking part in the Canutillo High School Homecoming Parade, Trunk-or-Treat, Candlelighters Toy Drive and the annual Fun Run, which raises funds that support student-centered activities throughout the year. 

Beyond fundraising, the group worked hand in hand with other organizations on campus contributing to meaningful events for students and families such as Veterans Day celebrations and Board Recognition Month. 

Daily, the members work together to help boost the campus, whether leading morning announcements, spearheading Autism awareness initiatives, preparing hygiene kits for fifth grade puberty classes or participating in community meetings to strengthen the school’s branding, they continually show their dedication to both their peers and the broader community. 

Fifth-grader and student council president Hailey Guardado said the award motivates her to continue making a difference.

“I feel honored to receive this award and how we worked together to do it. We worked really hard to help others and make our school better for everyone,” Guardado said. 

Student council officer Carlos Bustamante added that teamwork played a big role in their success.

“Everyone on student council had great ideas and we all worked together,” Bustamante said. “Winning this award shows that when we help each other, we can do great things.”

The ASCA School of Excellence Award recognizes only a select group of student councils across the country each year. Schools must demonstrate a strong student council program with a focus on service, democratic principles and leadership development.

With this recognition, BCE continues to lead the way in cultivating leadership and community values among its student body.