Student News Desk: Student Council leads preparations for first Prom at Standing Bear

March 28, 2025

Lincoln Public Schools understands the importance of quality journalism to help inform our community and shine a light on the people, programs and events that make our school district unique. Student News Desk is our ongoing effort to promote excellence in journalism and public education. We select a story written by student journalists from our high school publications classes to be featured on the Lincoln Public Schools homepage and social media each month. Congratulations to Amber Holmes of Standing Bear High School for being selected for March!

Written by Amber Holmes, Standing Bear

The gym roars with excitement and energy; Grizzlies scream, cheerleaders chant, band members perform, and the whole school feels united at this pep rally. It’s the night of the homecoming game, and the Grizzlies are showing all of their school spirit.

However, the real masterminds behind all this planning often go underappreciated. The student council team puts in an incredible amount of effort planning fundraisers, school dances, pep rallies, and a fan favorite: the annual staff versus staff basketball game.

“The staff versus staff basketball game is so fun to be a part of because it feels like we are creating traditions that are fun for everyone," relayed sophomore Chloe Elgert-Mulligan.

Student council members loved connecting with younger kids and watching the Standing Bear staff defeat the Moore staff in basketball for another year.

These hardworking Grizzlies don’t just plan events though, they also support the school and community around them. They handed out free hot cocoa to stressed students during finals week, delivered candy grams on Valentine’s Day, and most importantly, organized a food drive fundraiser to support the Food Bank.

Sophomore Claire Powell explains, “Student council is important to me because we do a lot for the student body, and it's a great way to get the students’ ideas and opinions involved in the school.”

One interesting aspect about a Student Council at a new school is the task of blazing uncharted paths. This was especially the reality this spring as the LSB StuCo planned the first ever Prom. With decisions to be made about theme, location, decorations, food, and much more, the Student Council was grateful to be a part of forming new traditions.

“It is somewhat hard because there’s no answer to ‘Well, what did you do last year?’ We are having to do everything for the first time,” explained freshman Olivia Volin. “More than that, though, it is fun because there’s only one first time, so the stress kind of turns into excitement,” Volin continued.

When all was said and done, the theme of Viva Las Vegas was chosen and preparations began in full swing.

“It is so much work to plan a huge event like this, but these kids have a vision and they put the work in. I am excited to see how it all works out later in April,” commented Student Council advisor Megan Ruppert.

---