Won’t God Do It: Patrick Cruse

Patrick Cruse is a student leader and educational advocate whose work centers on elevating student voice and strengthening educational systems through service, equity, and accountability.

In 2023, Patrick made history as the first-ever Student Principal at Wilder Preparatory Academy Charter School, becoming the inaugural student to hold this role. This milestone experience allowed him to work alongside school administrators, engage in real decision-making processes, and advocate directly for student needs. It was during this time that his passion for educational leadership and systemic impact was solidified.

As a ninth grader, Patrick transitioned to City Honors International Preparatory School, where he continued to expand his leadership across multiple levels. He currently serves as the Executive Director of the City Honors District Student Advisory Committee (DSAC), overseeing student governance, advocacy initiatives, and leadership development. In addition, he serves as the Los Angeles County Student Administrative Representative, proudly representing 2 million students, leading student leadership bodies and collaborating with district and county officials to ensure student perspectives are meaningfully included in policy and program discussions.

Most recently, Patrick was appointed to the California Association of Student Councils (CASC) Student Advisory Board on Education, where he now represents over six million students across the state of California. In this statewide role, he advocates for student-centered policies and works to elevate youth perspectives within educational decision-making spaces.

Alongside his advisory work, Patrick is the Founder and Lead Student of the Wellness Club at City Honors, established on the Young Citizens Campus. As the founding student leader, he leads a dedicated leadership team and oversees a network of more than 40 Wellness Ambassadors, focusing on mental health awareness, peer support, and building a positive and inclusive school culture.

Patrick’s leadership journey is defined by intentional growth, service, and vision. He aspires to become a principal of a traditional public high school in California, with a long-term goal of serving the Inglewood community. Through every role he holds, Patrick remains committed to empowering students, strengthening schools, and ensuring that student voices are not only heard, but valued.