As Grade 12 students finished their last exams at SMUS, Grade 11 students look ahead to their final year on campus as leaders of the Senior School.
Through a series of elections this spring, students and staff members took to the polls to vote current Grade 11s into positions of leadership, from Council Head, to Head of House in boarding, to Prefects. Twelve different candidates gave speeches in assembly to highlight why they would make great representatives of the student body.
The first positions that have been elected are the Head Prefects for the 2025-26 school year. Next year's Head Prefects will be Ailo Streitel and Parker Sheehan, both SMUS Lifers who started in Kindergarten together in 2013.
Past Head Prefects include Will and Chelsea (2024-25), Maya and Aidan (2023-24), Ryan and Talia (2022-23), Jonathan and Devon (2021-22) and Kenzie and Max (2019-20.
Ailo and Parker sat down to share a bit about themselves ahead of the next school year.
How would you describe yourself and your SMUS experience so far?
Ailo: My SMUS experience has been all about getting involved in things I’m passionate about, like Law Club, Girl Up, helping with the school musical, and playing field hockey. I’ve also loved being part of school outtrips and taking interesting classes that have taught me so much. Through these experiences, I’ve met some amazing people who are now close friends, and I’ve learned a lot along the way.
Parker: From the outside, most people would think that I am just a sports guy as I am on the Basketball, Soccer, Rugby, and Track teams. However, I really enjoy my time in the classroom as well. Throughout my time at SMUS, I have always tried my best to bring enthusiasm and energy, whether on the field or in the classroom.
Why did you want to be a Head Prefect?
Ailo: I wanted to be a Head Prefect as a way to give back to a community that has shaped me over the years. I’ve been fortunate enough to experience so much at SMUS, and I’m truly grateful for all the opportunities I’ve had. Becoming a Head Prefect feels like a great way to help my peers experience the same sense of belonging and growth, and to contribute to making our school community even stronger.
Parker: Ever since I was a little Kindergartener, I remember seeing the Head Prefects at the Junior School and being inspired to be like them. Ever since then, I have tried my best to improve as an individual to make a lasting positive impact on the SMUS community. I am so grateful that this school has given me many priceless opportunities, so as a Head Prefect, I want to give back to the community that created who I am today. Although it might seem a bit absurd, I genuinely love the school, and my goal as a Head Prefect is to help inspire others to feel the same and bring the community together.
What makes Ailo Head Prefect material?
Parker: Ailo is so engaged in creating an inclusive school environment. She is one of the heads of Girl Up SMUS, a club which campaigns for greater gender equality and change within the community. Ailo is also a very energetic, kind, and charismatic person, which I believe will help a lot as Head Prefect.
What makes Parker Head Prefect material?
Ailo: What makes Parker Head Prefect material is how deeply involved he is in all aspects of SMUS life. From sports to clubs, he’s always present, always positive, and truly cares about the people around him. He’s kind, reliable, and has a natural way of bringing people together and making things happen. I’ve known him since Kindergarten, and it’s been so inspiring to see him grow into such a thoughtful, confident leader.
What role do you see the Head Prefects and the Prefect Council playing for the JK-12 student body?
Parker: I think that the Head Prefects and Prefect Council will try to create an engaged and positive student body. The Head Prefects and Council are here to represent the students as closely as possible, so it is our responsibility to make sure that everyone feels heard and included, while creating fun events and opportunities for everyone to enjoy.
What are you most looking forward to about next year?
Ailo: I’m looking forward to helping build more connections between all the grades, from JK up to Grade 12. SMUS has such a unique community, and I think there’s so much potential to strengthen that sense of togetherness. I’d love to help create more opportunities where students across ages can interact and support each other. And honestly, I’m just excited to boost school spirit and make next year fun, welcoming, and full of energy for everyone.
What advice do you have for new students joining SMUS senior school?
Ailo: My biggest advice would be to try everything that even slightly interests you: clubs, sports, arts, anything. You never know what you’ll end up loving or where you’ll find your people. SMUS has so many opportunities, and getting involved is the best way to feel connected and make the most of your time here. Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone, and I promise you that everyone’s figuring it out together, and it’s way more fun when you dive in.
Parker: For new students at the school, I think it is very important to get involved with the community in some way as soon as possible. Whether it is trying out for a sports team or joining a club, there will be people to support you and help you get used to the SMUS environment. The school is also full of kind and inclusive people, where you will definitely find your group!
