Student representation on school boards is not just beneficial, it's essential. As the leader of Washoe County's Student Voice Council and the student representative on the Washoe County School District (WCSD) Board of Trustees, I've experienced firsthand the transformative power of integrating student perspectives into educational decision-making. To truly serve our students, every school district in Nevada should incorporate student board members into their board of trustees. I also believe that it is just as important to have a student voice council to support these students.  

The impact of student voices in Washoe County is evident. Our Student Advisory Council has successfully connected students' needs and interests to foster positive change within their district. WCSD Student Voice has worked on numerous projects such as talking lockers, mental health murals and defining respect. This improves school for students and makes it a place where people want to be and feel welcome.

Through collaboration between students sharing their opinions on large issues and the facilitators who are working in the schools, there is support and communication that promotes making a difference. This experience should inspire other school districts to empower their students and enrich our educational system. 

Establishing student board positions across all districts would cultivate a supportive community, allowing student representatives to share experiences, challenges and strategies, thereby enhancing our collective efficacy. Recently, the Nevada Association of Student Trustees was formed to emphasize that student trustees bring unique perspectives to decision-making processes, ensuring policies reflect the needs and experiences of students.

Because of a student voice council, we can learn about experiences through others and express ourselves while working toward a common goal of making school a place where students want to be. This captures the need for students in decision-making for issues that make a difference in a student’s school experience. 

Beyond serving as an advocacy group, having a student representative on school boards legitimizes what student voice groups work toward by empowering their voices and amplifying them to the board members who can make a difference. Student representatives help others become more aware of the realities in school districts and provide valuable input on those matters. Student representatives additionally allow students to advocate for themselves in a genuine way. When school boards are discussing matters that pertain to students, it only makes sense that there would be room for student input.

It is a growing trend across the nation to start involving students on school boards. This practice and experience not only benefits students in regards to bettering school environments, but also helps democratic knowledge within education systems. The Washoe County School District recognized the importance of student voices by establishing a student representative position on its school board. WCSD also established a student advisory council, which consists of students from across the district, that is facilitated by district employees. Being a part of these groups allowed me to become a well-rounded student, making me more aware of the issues and successes of different schools.

When I first came into my position on the board, I grappled with understanding my role and effectively voicing student concerns. The absence of peers in similar positions made this journey isolating. Establishing student board positions across all districts in Nevada would cultivate a supportive community, allowing student representatives to share experiences, challenges and strategies, thereby enhancing our collective efficacy for all students.

Effective collaboration between student and adult board members is a simple piece that brings it all together. Fostering mutual respect and clear communication ensures that student voices are not only heard but also valued in the decision-making process. Misalignments in understanding can undermine the very essence of student representation. Disconnection between the students and adults who are necessary to make change creates a gap that prevents change.

My goal is to spread awareness about the importance of this in the school setting. When there is synthesis amongst students and adults, progress toward a common goal flows naturally.

By promoting student representation on school boards across Nevada and supporting it through advocacy groups and opportunities, we can ensure that educational policies and decisions reflect and respond to the needs of those they directly affect. Opening our ears and minds to all opinions is where we can all start. 

Annie Batavia is a senior at McQueen High School in Washoe County. She is involved through student leadership and student advocacy. She sits on the Washoe County School District Board of Trustees as the student representative.

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