The Watauga Middle School Student Council has etched its name into the Birdville ISD history books. 

According to the National Association of Student Councils (NASC), WMS is the first BISD campus to receive the prestigious National Gold Council of Excellence Award for student councils. Awarded for exceptional leadership and service, this national recognition is given to fewer than 270 NASC member schools nationwide that demonstrate the highest standards of leadership, service, and community engagement. WMS is one of only 97 campuses in Texas to receive this elite designation, underscoring the council’s extraordinary impact both on campus and beyond.

“This recognition highlights the powerful role that our students play in making a positive impact on our school and community,” said James Hollis, Watauga Middle principal. “They show up, lead, and genuinely care about making a difference. I’m really proud of the way they represent our school every day. This is an extraordinary accomplishment – and they’ve earned it.”

WMS students earned this recognition through a wide range of meaningful service initiatives. Among their efforts, student council members packaged more than 5,000 meals during the Compass Church Meal Marathon, organized campus clean-up projects, and led fundraising campaigns benefiting Cook Children’s Hospital. 

In addition, they also championed awareness campaigns promoting safe driving, anti-bullying, and drug-free choices – demonstrating a commitment to fostering a positive and supportive school culture. The National Gold Council of Excellence Award also reflects a student council’s ability to meet rigorous criteria, including civic engagement, leadership development, and active participation in school and community service.

Beyond individual projects, this recognition signifies a sustained, school-wide commitment to student voice and leadership. Councils earning this distinction must demonstrate excellence across multiple pillars, including democratic practices, service learning, and collaboration with school administration. The award also connects recipients to a national network of high-performing student councils, positioning WMS as a model program and reinforcing the long-term impact of student leadership in shaping positive school climates and engaged communities.