Leadership reinstates ASB elections

Applications for the 2025-26 Student Leadership team are now open, with the option to run for ASB positions, including President, Vice President, Chaplain, Treasurer, Activities Director and Secretary. 

Leadership students have an array of responsibilities throughout the school year. From planning major events such as homecoming, formal, school rallies and Sadies to weekly student support in sports, service and other areas, leadership students carry a heavy load. 

For the past year, Student Leadership has taken on a “collaborative leadership” model, operating as a team rather than with specific defined positions.

Principal Amy Deffenbacher articulates the heart behind the unique structure. 

“We chose a collaborative model for this year because we recognized that there were many students who were equipped to lead,” Deffenbacher said. “We wanted to give everyone a seat at the table.” 

Innovative approaches carry the potential for both success and challenges. One anonymous leadership student shared her frustration with this year’s collaborative model.  

“So far, not including ASB has not affected the general students as much as it does the leadership class. It’s a lot easier to get things done when you have a middle ground person who’s one of your peers, as they understand the importance of getting things done and communicate in a way that is understandable to students. I can a hundred percent say that having ASB does make a difference.”

With the school year coming to a close, reflection is necessary and encourages new developments for the 2025-26 school year. After a two-year hiatus, student body elections for ASB officers are scheduled for May 21. For students looking to join leadership, there is a required application process that aspiring members must complete.

Since Fresno Christian was established in 1977, the school’s Student Leadership team has mirrored the nationwide expectation of student leadership activities and programs, while adding Biblical components. The application includes a portion that ensures the candidates are plugged into a local church, as the school values consistency, community involvement, and relationships with quality mentors. A pastoral recommendation is required, as well as the written testimony of the individual applying. 

Leadership class is not an elective; rather, enrollment in the class fulfills the necessary bible course requirements. However, it is not the preferred solution as there is so much to cover within the two differing curricula. 

“Our concession is that we have implemented the connective Bible piece to keep student leaders engaged with the biblical studies their peers are experiencing in bible class,” Deffenbacher said. “We hope to incorporate some time with the bible teachers, in person, to enhance the online learning experience.”

Elections can be a highly-anticipated event for all, especially those whose ambitions are to hold a public office or receive possible scholarships from colleges that still reward student leadership positions. Elections also provide exposure to the opportunities of civic engagement. 

As FC leadership moves back toward a traditional model, an anonymous student looks forward to the advantage that may equip them once they leave high school. 

“Changes I anticipate seeing are more group meetings, in order to plan more diligently and make decisions together as a class so we can bring our ideas to the school in a fruitful way. Government-focused elements will be incredibly helpful as they will prepare many for real life, regardless of whether they’re actually going into leadership roles in the future.” 

Leadership applications are due May 10 and have been sent to all high school students’ FCS email accounts. Elections will take place May 21. For further updates, check the leadership Instagram account @fchs_eagles. 

For more from The Feather read Fresno Christian choirs perform at Heritage Festival in Anaheim or FCS color guard finishes the season strong.