The Middle School Faculty at The Independent Day School in Middlefield recently invited their students to launch a student government. Students researched varied structures and models of middle school government and undertook a thoughtful campaign process, including an application to "run for office." An inspiring speech from each candidate was followed by spontaneous questions and answers from the audience.   The entire Middle School, including faculty, voted for the officers.  At the end of a very close race the following officers were elected: President, Christopher of Cromwell; Vice President, Chase of Cromwell; Secretary, Luke of Rocky Hill; 6^th grade Representatives, David of Wethersfield and Larry of Middlefield; 7^th grade Representatives, Nora of Guilford and Leander of Rocky Hill; and 8^th grade Representatives, Camille of Cromwell and Thomas of Middletown. During its first year, the student government will work with fellow students and with faculty advisor Chris Wilkes and Head of School John Barrengos to draft a statement of purpose and a constitution.