Fifth-grader takes reins at The Out-of-Door Academy

Sydney Hill, a fifth-grader at The Out-of-Door Academy, took the helm of the Siesta Key school as chief operating officer March 13. She earned the promotion after her parents won the “Head for a Day” package at ODA’s 2011 Banyan Ball.

The package allowed Sydney to declare an “Emerald Dress Down Day” in honor of this year’s Banyan Ball theme (see Diversions for more photos). Additionally, Sydney threw an ice-cream party for her fellow fifth-graders; ate lunch with Head of School David Mahler in his office; made an all-call announcement on the intercom wishing the school a great day; and sent a message to all parents through the Head of School blog.

Sydney also shared an email with the rest of the ODA faculty about her idea to start a non-profit foundation called CKids. All the money for the foundation would go to cancer research, parents who have a child with cancer, and toys for kids with cancer in hopes of brightening their lives throughout treatment.

The Kozel Family won the “Head for a Day” package at this year’s Banyan Ball.

Q&A
The Pelican Press asked Sydney Hill to answer a few questions about her day as chief operating officer. Here is what she had to say about her special day.

How did you get to be the chief operating officer for the day?
My parents bid on it at the Banyan Ball last year.

What were some of the things you got to do since you were in charge?
I got to send out an email to all faculty.  I got a special lunch in Mr. Mahler’s office, and I had an ice-cream party for all the fifth-grade students. I also went into an important meeting with all of the heads of the school.

What was it like working side-by-side with your principal?
I thought it was really exciting talking to the head of the school and giving him all of my ideas.

What was your favorite part of the day?
I think my favorite part of the day was having an ice-cream party with all of my friends.

Did you decide that everyone should wear green for the “Emerald Dress Down Day?”
Yes, that was my decision.

Why did you want to donate to CKids?
I wanted to start CKids, because I have always wanted to start a foundation, because I feel badly for kids with disabilities. It is hard to be a kid with a disability and not be able to go out and play with your friends.