The significance of student voice in enhancing the school environment cannot be overemphasized. Although valuable, hearing from every student individually can be challenging due to the large student body. The student council, consisting of committed students, serves as a crucial platform for listening to students and communicating their concerns to the administrators.
While all voices are important, students elect officers we trust to effectively lead and advocate for positive changes within the school community. Miranda Cruz currently holds the role of RV’s student council president, a critical position among the council officers.
“I’ve been on the student council since my freshman year. I’ve had leadership positions within the years,” said Cruz. “For this year, I wanted to run for senior or overall president. I ended up choosing overall because I’m really involved with the school, which is why I really wanted to have a hold on what the school does.”
Cruz isn’t exaggerating; she is immensely involved with the school. Listing all the clubs in which she holds leadership positions was no easy feat, given her involvement in numerous clubs and activities.
“I’ve been in many clubs throughout my high school career, however this year I’m trying to narrow it down so I can focus more on each club. I am the president of Student for Lemons, I am Community Outreach for the Thespian Society, [and] I am on the design committee for FBLA.”
Juggling an overwhelmingly busy schedule can be quite daunting. However, Cruz seems to be able to do it with a smile on her face.
“Honestly, all the clubs that I participate in, I love them,” said Cruz. “And I do them because I enjoy them. I like being in the community with other people. I can never stay not busy. I always have to be running, doing something. Or else I just feel unproductive.”
Even while juggling her busy senior year schedule, Cruz appreciates being able to be RV’s overall student council president.
“It is definitely an overwhelming position, with so many tasks to be done. However, I feel it’s worth it at the same time because I love being able to make sure everyone’s voices are heard.”
Cruz’s position is vastly important to the student body. Since she is the one who communicates with and for RV, she knows with a weighted title comes many responsibilities.
“We’ve already done some work revamping the fan club for this year,” said Cruz. “So everything is going well with that so far. But honestly, I’m just listening to what people have to say to me, and I’m going to relay that information to Rosenthal and Mr. Martin.”
Cruz defines herself as compassionate to the RV community, and she points to her family — most notably her mother, Briana Sanchez, as her inspiration. Like Cruz, Sanchez currently juggles multiple responsibilities, including three jobs and raising three children. Just like Cruz, she has a tremendously overwhelming life.
“My mom definitely has her moments where she loses it,” said Cruz. “But I always see her get right back up and push through it all. Seeing this inspires me to do the same.”
Cruz is passionate about volunteering and giving back to the community. When asked about her secrets to managing her overbooked schedule, she emphasizes the importance of pushing oneself and finding the positive in everything one does.
“It’s not going to be easy, but you have to be able to lean on the people around you. Look on the bright side and just push through.”
