Leading From Within: How Student Ambassadors Are Building Community at PACS

At Passport Academy Charter School, the Student Ambassador Program brings students together to help create a positive school culture. The program meets every other Tuesday to brainstorm activities for the school and develop peer support frameworks for grade improvement, work competition and overall academic encouragement.

In many ways, the ambassador program resembles student councils at other schools. The students organize the school’s prom and spirit weeks, and actively develop other activities like a school-wide Friendsgiving. What differentiates this program is peer-to-peer support that’s offered to make sure students succeed academically, and includes a healthy level of competition between the students. According to 2024 student ambassador Nahaven Mosby, the program helps students become actively involved in their school and creates a strong sense of community with peers.

“Our Student Ambassador Program represents the heart of Passport Academy,” said Joe Oliphant, PACS principal and CEO. “While they focus mainly on academic support and school activities, they also take time for community endeavors like, ‘Cozy Collections,’ a December clothing drive that supports our neighborhood homeless shelter. They expand their sense of community beyond the school doors.”

In addition, participation in the group allows students to build friendships, earn volunteer hours required for graduation, and strengthen leadership, communication and teamwork skills. Upon graduation, ambassadors receive an honorable mention symbol in the graduation program and wear a red ambassador cord that distinguishes them as school leaders.

"I joined the student ambassador team so I can make a difference and share my ideas to the school. It's helping me learn to speak my mind and help other kids," said Tyshawn Burton. "Every since joining, I've been feeling more confident speaking up and stating my opinion."

The Student Ambassador Program has an exciting semester ahead, with upcoming events that include Black History Trivia, the Spill-the-Tea Girls Tea Party and Boys II Men: The Barbershop Talk. Ambassadors for the 2025 - 2026 fall semester include: Nashae Clinton, Tyshawn Burton, Kaliyah Broadus, ShiArye Jones, NeVaeh Daniles, Tariyah Sinkler and Isiah Dunning. PACS is currently accepting applications for spring semester until February 6th. Applications, which require one letter of recommendation, are open to all students. For additional information on how to apply, visit Mr. Oliphant’s office.