Unity Point School District in Carbondale, Illinois, is a community rich with diversity, enthusiasm, and commitment to both academics and character-building. One of the programs contributing to that positive environment is Trojan Tribe, where students like Narissa Mays are playing pivotal roles in shaping their school's culture, providing guidance to younger students, and developing their own leadership skills along the way.

Narissa, an 8th grader, has embraced her role within Trojan Tribe, a group that focuses on both academic support and life guidance for younger students. With her friendly demeanor and natural leadership qualities, she stands out as someone others naturally gravitate towards. When asked how she feels about being a role model for younger students, Narissa smiles thoughtfully. “I like that challenge,” she says. “It feels good to be someone they can look up to.”

Trojan Tribe is far more than an after-school club; it’s a cornerstone of student leadership development at Unity Point. Students like Narissa help tutor younger children, assist teachers, and participate in initiatives like the Trojan Store, where students decide what items to stock and manage its day-to-day operations. These students aren't just learning how to solve math problems or master spelling—they're developing life skills and leadership attributes that will serve them well beyond the classroom.

“I love being part of Trojan Tribe,” Narissa explains. “You get to do a little bit of everything—tutoring, helping teachers, and just being there for kids who need a friend.” For Narissa, it’s about being a good listener and a positive influence. Whether she's guiding younger students through schoolwork or offering a friendly ear during a tough day, she makes sure every student feels valued.

Amanda Hilt, a Unity Point teacher and the program’s advisor, has seen firsthand how much these leadership opportunities matter to students. “Trojan Tribe started because we recognized a need for student leaders—especially in grades lower than 7th and 8th—who wanted an opportunity to contribute,” she says. “The kids who join Trojan Tribe are some of the most responsible, driven students in the school, and they have this incredible ability to shape their school environment.”

What makes Trojan Tribe unique is its multi-tiered approach to leadership. Older students, like Narissa, serve as role models and mentors for the younger grades, building meaningful connections. Younger students get the chance to look up to peers who they admire, and the older students thrive in their positions of responsibility. Amanda describes the Tribe’s success: “We’ve had kids go on to become teachers, coaches, and leaders in various fields, and they credit their time in Trojan Tribe for helping them find their direction.”

The program emphasizes more than just schoolwork. "Trojan Tribe is really a service group," Hilt explains. "It’s about how to be a good citizen, a good human. Whether they're working as teacher assistants, helping run the Trojan Store, or supporting a classmate who's struggling, they're learning to make positive impacts in their community."

Unity Point’s commitment to holistic education extends to the program’s integration with the school's overall values. "It's not just about academics," Hilt says. "We're trying to teach the students how to be responsible, thoughtful individuals. They're given real responsibilities, and we hold them accountable. They rise to the challenge every time."

Narissa, a Trojan Tribe member who embodies this vision, juggles leadership roles and academic responsibilities with grace. In addition to her role in the Tribe, she’s an athlete and excels in gymnastics—yet still makes time to mentor younger students. Her aspirations extend beyond her current role as a mentor and leader; Narissa is eyeing careers as diverse as pediatric medicine and law enforcement.

For Amanda, watching students like Narissa grow through Trojan Tribe is a gratifying experience. "These kids inspire me every day," she says. "They’re learning to lead, to give back, and to navigate the world with compassion and intelligence. That’s something special."

As Trojan Tribe continues to grow, the ripple effects of its influence can be felt throughout Unity Point. It's a program that connects students across grades, teaches them the value of service, and empowers them to become the best versions of themselves. For Narissa, it’s an experience that has undoubtedly shaped their time at Unity Point—and the lessons learned here will carry her far into the future.