Students at Austin Road Elementary School experienced a powerful full-circle moment last week as members of last year’s Student Leadership Team returned to campus to celebrate the installation of brand new lockers on the school’s second floor, an improvement they helped bring to life through their advocacy.
The project began last school year when the fourth and fifth graders on the leadership team identified the original lockers as an area in need of significant improvement. After researching the issue, students presented their concerns to Austin Road Principal Bryan Gilligan and Director of Facilities Timothy Walsh. Their thoughtful arguments and willingness to speak up ultimately led the Mahopac Central School District to include funding for the new lockers in this year’s school budget.
To honor the students’ leadership and initiative, Principal Gilligan invited the now-sixth graders back from Mahopac Middle School to join this year’s fifth graders, allowing the full Student Leadership Team to celebrate the moment together.
Gilligan first welcomed the students back in the library, where he reflected on the importance of student voice.
“When we formed this team last year, we wanted students who would not be afraid to tell us what needed to be improved at Austin Road,” Gilligan said. “When they identified the lockers as an issue, they researched the problem, prepared presentations for Mr. Walsh, and answered his questions with confidence. Their work led directly to the lockers being added to the budget. Every sixth grader returned today despite knowing they wouldn’t be the ones using these lockers, which speaks to their character. They wanted to leave the school a better place than they found it.”
Students then traveled upstairs, where banners hung above the brand-new lockers that read “Student,” “Leadership,” and “You Made This.” The group posed for photos, admired the upgraded space and celebrated the impact of their efforts.
Fifth grader Natalie Gumina shared what the moment meant to her. “I like how these lockers are bigger and you can fit things without a struggle,” she said. “I love how we get to make a difference in the school and that the younger students will get to use these in the future.”
Following the tour, students returned to the library where Principal Gilligan and Assistant Principal Elizabeth Lee presented them with goodie bags, including magnets that read, “Austin Road Student Leadership Team, You Locked In Your Legacy.”
Superintendent of Schools Frank Miele praised the students for demonstrating leadership far beyond their years.
“These students showed a genuine desire to make their school better,” Miele said. “Leadership begins with recognizing a problem and having the courage to speak up, and the result is that their work has made a lasting impact on Austin Road. I couldn’t be prouder of the example they have set for our entire district.”
The new lockers now stand not only as an upgrade to the building, but as a lasting symbol of what student voices, teamwork and leadership can accomplish.
