Greens Farms School (GFS) Principal Brian Byrne welcomed families to the school’s fall PTA General Board Meeting last week, where the PTA approved its annual budget and community members heard updates on school goals and communication tools.

Principal Byrne shared this year’s GFS school goal with families and reviewed the purpose and functions of ParentSquare, the district’s communication platform. The biggest highlight was an opening segment featuring members of the GFS student leadership group, the Long Neck Leaders (LNLs).

The Grade 5 LNLs reflected on what it means to be a leader within their school community. Scholars spoke about serving as role models for younger classmates, building friendships, and finding joy in learning. They also fielded thoughtful questions from families in attendance about their experiences as student leaders.

This conversation was part of a broader GFS initiative to give scholars greater voice and agency in shaping their school environment. By providing leadership opportunities, the school encourages scholars to share their perspectives with peers, educators, and families, while strengthening communication across the community.

"The Long Neck Leaders remind us how powerful student perspectives can be," said Brian Byrne, GFS Principal. "They’re helping to shape a school culture where every learner feels heard, seen, and valued.

"It was inspiring to see our fifth graders take on leadership roles with such maturity and enthusiasm," Byrne added. "They represented their classmates and school community with pride."