Westlake Hills Elementary promotes student leadership not only in the classroom, but also through other programs offered at school. Here are a few:

Student Council

Led by a WHE teacher, this group of class-nominated 4^th and 5^th grade students meet monthly during lunch hour to select, organize and run a variety of community building and philanthropic activities throughout the academic year.  Past activities have included spirit weeks, winter candy grams and shoe drives.  During the 2024-2025 academic year, the Student Council played an active role in helping WHE to become a zero-waste school.

Study Buddy Program

Throughout the school year, upper grade students are paired with lower grade students for the Study Buddy Program. Each year, children eagerly anticipate which class they'll be paired with, and who will be their assigned study buddy. Throughout the year, paired-up teachers develop activities that strengthen leadership skills in upper grade students, and give lower grade students the opportunity to connect with the “big kids on campus.” Examples of activities include Favorite Food Feast in November, and Valentine's Day bag decorating in February. The study buddy relationship continues beyond their assigned year! It is not uncommon to see high-fives and friendly waves as younger and older children pass each other in the hallways.

Mouse Squad

At the start of each school year, 4^th grade students are invited to apply to be a member of the Mouse Squad.  After receiving training from the former Mouse Squad members who are now in 5^th grade, this group of students assists teachers and substitutes in troubleshooting technology issues. They also provide support to the instructor and parent volunteers in the Innovation Lab when lower grade students need additional support with a technology lesson.