At Centralia High School where school spirit and community pride run deep, the Student Council stands as one of the most influential forces on campus. Led by an executive team of motivated students and co-sponsored by longserving educators Tina Miller and Suzan Tyberendt, the council does more than just organize events—it shapes the culture of the school and inspires students to serve their community.

As Student Council Executive President, Cooper Dodson knows firsthand how much of an impact the council has on the student body. “I love Centralia High School. My family’s deeply connected here—my grandfather has served on the school board for almost 20 years,” Cooper says. His passion for CHS isn’t just familial, though. His leadership in organizing homecoming events, running blood drives, and spearheading the Adopt-aFamily initiative through BCMW, a local community service organization, shows his commitment to giving back.

Cooper’s efforts, alongside his peers, extend far beyond the walls of CHS. “If Student Council weren’t here, there would be fewer ways for students to get involved,” Cooper explains. From planning themed dress-up days to organizing holiday drives for less fortunate families, Cooper and his team work tirelessly to boost school spirit and ensure that students have opportunities to connect and contribute. “We want everyone to feel involved,” he adds.

For Sara Starr, the Student Council’s Executive Secretary, being part of the team means more than just attending meetings—it’s about bringing people together. “I’ve been involved in Student Council all four years, and I love how it connects me to everyone,” Sara shares. Whether it’s through spirit week or homecoming, Sara plays a key role in ensuring the student body is engaged and energized. Her drive for connection shines in the council’s initiatives. “We help organize two blood drives each year, and we run the Adopt-a-Family program, where we raise money and shop for gifts for kids in need,” Sara says. These efforts demonstrate the Student Council’s focus on community outreach and leadership development. “I love being in the know and helping others get involved,” Sara says with a smile.

A TRADITION OF LEADERSHIP
Tina Miller and Suzan Tyberendt have co-sponsored the CHS Student Council for more than a decade, shaping its role as a cornerstone of student life. “We expect our members to be leaders,” Tina explains. “They volunteer, they keep their grades up, and they represent CHS well.”

The Student Council at CHS isn’t just about planning events—it’s about fostering leadership and civic responsibility. Each member is held to a high standard, earning points for participating in community activities, and those who excel are encouraged to run for executive positions. “Our students get involved in everything from blood drives to homecoming parades,” Suzan says, noting the return of a beloved tradition this year. “We’re bringing back the homecoming parade, and everyone’s excited about it.”

This year, the council has revamped its efforts, reintroducing the homecoming parade and encouraging other clubs to join in the celebration. “It’s about building something bigger than just ourselves,” Cooper says, highlighting how important teamwork is in their efforts.

LOOKING BEYOND HIGH SCHOOL
Cooper is a Junior and Sara is a Senior, and their experiences on the Student Council are shaping their futures. Cooper plans to stay local and study law after completing his general education at Kaskaskia College, while Sara hopes to pursue nursing with a focus on women’s health. For both, the leadership skills they’ve honed in Student Council are preparing them for what lies ahead.

But their legacies at CHS will continue long after graduation. “It’s the people I’ve met here that I’ll remember,” Cooper reflects. “You meet people in high school, and those relationships last. It’s not just the events—it’s the impact we have on each other.”

Sara echoes that sentiment, adding, “We have a lot of traditions at CHS—homecoming, May Fete, and more—but it’s the sense of community that makes them special. It brings everyone together.” A

COMMUNITY THAT CARES
At its core, the CHS Student Council is more than a group of event planners— it’s a force that builds connections, fosters leadership, and gives back to the community. From organizing blood drives to helping families in need during the holidays, the council’s work reflects the values that make Centralia High School such a special place.

For Cooper, Sara, Tina, Suzan, and the entire council, the work they do goes far beyond high school. “We hope these students leave here as leaders who will contribute to their communities wherever they go,” Suzan says. And with leaders like Cooper and Sara, the future looks bright.