Erica Collins stared at the imposing junior high building, her crutches digging into her armpits. The summer car accident that left her with a full leg cast wasn't how she planned to start seventh grade. She took a deep breath, adjusted her backpack, and hobbled toward the entrance, trying to ignore the stares from other students. 'You can do this,' she whispered to herself.

Erica struggled to balance her lunch tray while using crutches in the crowded cafeteria. 'Need help?' asked a boy with short black hair, quickly taking her tray. 'Hey, looks like you had a tough summer,' Nicky said with a friendly smile, leading her to the 7th grade table. Erica clicked with Emily and Jeff instantly, laughing about their strict math teacher, Mr. Leap.

Ms. Cuter tapped her pen against the whiteboard. 'We need a 7th Grade Representative for Student Council,' she announced to the class. Erica kept her eyes down until Jeff nudged her shoulder. 'I nominate Erica Collins,' Emily called out unexpectedly, causing Erica's heart to race.

Erica anxiously attended her first Student Council meeting, notebook clutched tightly. When Jeff complained about the broken bike racks, Erica surprised herself by speaking up. 'I've noticed that too, and I've been mapping accessibility issues around school,' she said, showing her detailed notes. Mr. Leap, the faculty advisor, looked impressed.

Within weeks, the broken bike racks were fixed thanks to Erica's persistence. Students began approaching her with other concerns—from cafeteria food to outdated library books. 'You're really good at this,' Nicky told her as they walked home. 'You actually listen to people.'

Erica's cast came off, but her newfound confidence remained. 'You should run for School President next month,' Nicky suggested during lunch. 'No girl has ever been President, especially not a girl of color,' Erica replied hesitantly. Emily leaned forward excitedly, 'That's exactly why you should do it!'

Erica gathered Nicky, Emily, and Jeff in the library to discuss her campaign. 'If I'm going to do this, I need help,' she admitted, sharing her ideas for school improvements. Jeff grinned, 'I'm great with posters,' while Emily added, 'And I can help with social media.' Nicky simply said, 'I believed in you from day one.'

Not everyone supported Erica's campaign for President. She overheard whispers questioning if she was 'experienced enough.' Ms. Cuter pulled her aside after class, saying, 'Don't let them discourage you, Erica. Your perspective is valuable.' Erica nodded, more determined than ever.

Instead of just putting up posters, Erica decided to visit every homeroom. She asked students what changes they wanted to see at school. 'No one's ever asked us before,' said a surprised sixth grader. Erica's notebook filled with ideas about everything from healthier lunches to more diverse books.

The night before her campaign speech, Erica panicked. 'What if I mess up?' she texted Nicky. He called immediately: 'Just be yourself—that's who we're all voting for.' Mr. Leap spotted her practicing in an empty classroom and offered encouragement. 'Your voice matters, Erica.'

The auditorium fell silent as Erica approached the microphone. Her hands trembled until she spotted her friends in the front row. 'I may not look like any School President we've had before,' she began confidently, 'but I see that as our strength.' Her words about inclusion and student voices earned thunderous applause.

Erica could hardly believe the announcement: 'Your new School President is Erica Collins!' Nicky hugged her while Emily jumped up and down excitedly. Mr. Leap and Ms. Cuter exchanged proud glances as Erica stood tall, ready to lead. 'This is just the beginning,' she promised her cheering classmates.