Henry J. Kaiser High School Student Council Earns National Award
[Honolulu, HI] – For its exemplary record of leadership, service and activities that improve the school and community, the Henry J. Kaiser High School student council has been recognized as a 2025 National Gold Council of Excellence by the National Association of Student Councils (NASC). The NASC program is supported by its parent organization, the National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP).
This year, the student council showed strong commitment to school and community service by organizing several community-wide initiatives. They hosted a successful donation drive for families in need, supported foster families during the holidays, and volunteered at a local shelter. The council also ensured student voice and choice in school activities and elections, and organized memorable events during Homecoming to unite the student body, alumni and local community. Additionally, for the second year, they led "Aloha in Action," bringing all schools together to learn, lead, and serve with Aloha.
“The student council at Henry J. Kaiser High School just pulled off something extraordinary,” said NASSP CEO Ronn Nozoe. “Their student-driven change has earned them national recognition as a National Gold Council of Excellence, proving that when young people are given the chance to lead, they turn their vision into real-world impact.”
"I’m incredibly proud of our students and what our council has accomplished this year," said Student Activities Coordinator Paul Dela Balazs. "It’s clear that school spirit has soared and school culture has begun to shift. If you look at what activities and events the council has organized, you can see their creativity, vision, and enthusiasm. But when you look at how they've chosen to lead, how they handle obstacles, how they keep it authentic, and how they work together, you can really see what's in their heart."
A student council must meet a variety of criteria to earn the National Gold Council of Excellence Award. In addition to basic requirements such as a written constitution, regular meetings and a democratic election process, the councils must have demonstrated successful sponsorship and participation in activities such as leadership development and service to the school and community.
Learn more about the National Council of Excellence Awards.