Jayohna Sims,12, knew that she wanted to make a change when she entered high school. Sims has been attending Omaha North High since her freshman year. 

Sims had many influences and inspirations pushing her to become a leader at North. Her main inspiration to be a leader was her mom, who also attended Omaha North High. 

“She just always expected me to do what I was supposed to,” said Sims.  

Sims has been a part of many different clubs, sports, and activities in her high school career. These include basketball, National Honors Society (NHS), and most notably she is the senior class president. 

Sims is class president alongside her vice-president, LaVelle Henderson,12.  

Sims was inspired to run for class president because she wants to make an impact at North and leave a mark on the community here. Running for senior class president was her way of contributing to the community while also adding to her college resume. 

Sims is also involved in the athletics program. She plays basketball and is a part of the athletic trainer program, where she helps around the athletic office and shadows North’s athletic trainer. 

Sims believes being in so many different clubs has been greatly beneficial for her. It has given her opportunities to be able to meet so many different people and it has made it easier for her to build her own community and support system.  

For Sims, North has been a place where she has connections, support, and a place to grow friendships.  

“It’s been a growing place, all the clubs and activities I participate in have helped me throughout life,” said Sims. 

Sims has been impacted greatly by the environment at North. 

“The community of North is great, everyone at North just bonds together,” said Sims.  

A specific bond Sims has from the North community is with Amanda Gutierrez (Dr. G), curriculum specialist. Gutierrez has helped Sims in many different ways. 

 “I know I can go to her about anything, and she helps me get into different programs and things,” said Sims.  

Gutierrez and Sims have formed a close relationship throughout Sims’ high school career. This relationship started during Sims’ freshman year while Gutierrez helped guide Sims through her high school career. 

Outside of school, Sims’ family has been extremely influential on her life as a whole. 

 “My family has always pushed me to do my best, they have always helped me navigate through tough situations,” said Sims.  

Sims has two brothers, two sisters, cousins and other family members that have helped her through life. 

The clubs at North have also helped Sims gain skills for the future.  

Sims enjoys staying involved at North because it helps her learn new skills and it helps her prepare for her future.  

Being senior class president has helped Sims become more comfortable in a leadership role as well as being influential in an effective way. Both skills combine to benefit Sims in her long-term goals as well as her short-term goals that are currently happening.   

In the future Sims wants to attend a four-year university and major in something such as business or education.  

“I want to pursue being a mentor for students in the classroom and in the community,” said Sims.  

Sims has had leaders and educators at North guide her through tough times, she wants to be that kind of person and carry on the support for other young people. Sims wants to educate and make an impact on young people in her community.