Branson High School recently hosted the 74th Annual Missouri Association of Student Councils (MASC) state convention. Over 700 student leaders and 200 advisors from school districts throughout Missouri attended the event.

The convention allows student leaders across Missouri to meet, share ideas on how to promote a more positive school environment and discuss how other branches run their programs. Conference highlights included nationally known speakers, student-led workshops and breakout sessions, election of state officer schools, and recognition of Honor Council recipients, all while celebrating this year's theme, Back To Our Future.

Branson High School, the current elected state president school, last hosted the convention in the year 2000. BHS graduate and current principal, Jack Harris, then served as Student Council President. “It was great to see our kids come together and work hard to host this convention,” says Harris. “I’m very proud of their hard work on this excellent event that brought together over 100 schools from across the state.”

The Honor Council Committee of MASC awarded Branson High School’s Student Council with the MASC Gold Award. Sunshine Ridinger and Todd Koon were also recognized for their contributions to MASC as Student Council Advisors. “As a high school educator, I am often asked how I can work with high school students or if I’m worried about our future,” says Ridinger. “I can without a doubt tell you that these kids make me excited for what is to come. They are kind, they are inclusive, they are smart, they are problem solvers, they are hard workers, and most importantly, they are leaders.”