The Voice of the Students

Lakeside High School's Student School Board Representatives

Each year, two students at Lakeside High School have a unique opportunity. The Nine Mile Falls School District is one of a handful of districts across the state that have “Student School Board Representatives.” These students serve as “ambassadors” to the Board. It is their job to visit with the four schools’ ASB officers and student body, then report any issues and concerns to the Board; they are the direct link between the Board Members and the students of Nine Mile Falls. This year, a senior is serving for a second term, while a junior begins his first as a “Student Rep.”

“I’ll know more what to expect this year and feel more comfortable giving my opinion,” explained the senior. “It’s very interesting to be aware of what’s going on and make sure that the Board knows the students’ opinion before they make their decisions.” Last year she did not realize that the work sessions were so informal and open. “They were different than I expected,” she commented. She used the work sessions to share her views and opinions and will continue to do so when she feels it’s important. She thinks it will be interesting to watch the new Board as it begins working together. A highlight this year will be joining Director Daggy at a National convention in February.

Last spring, the junior thought that he would be in the Running Start program this year; therefore he didn’t run for a class office as he had done his freshmen and sophomore years. (He was the class President both years). When no one came forward to fill this role and Principal Mark St.Clair suggested it to him, he felt it would be a good way for him to be involved. “I’ve always had a leadership role with my class and this seemed like a good next step. I actually liked being there (the school board work session).” He admits that he will have to work on finding out his schoolmates’ opinions on issues, but foresees no problem sharing concerns with the Board. “If there’s something that I think the Board should know, I’ll definitely let them know about it,” he stated.

As non-voting members of the Board, the teens are required to attend both the work session and the formal business meetings once a month. Their role at the meetings is to give a student’s perspective, to report on school activities, and when appropriate, volunteer on special committees. Through these teens, our School Board members have fresh insight to the students of our District.