Senior Austin White and junior Alivia Anderson are the Tyrone Area School Board Student Representatives for the 2023-2024 school year.
Student board representatives attend each Tyrone Area School Board meeting and represent students’ voices to the board.
“I think it is very informative information and enthusiasm we receive from the students. We hear updates from administration but the students go into more detail at times and I love seeing their expressions,” said school board president Rose Black.
They provide the board information by reporting on things going on at the high school from the students’ first-hand experiences. This gives the board an insight into how high school students feel and what they experience.
“I chose to be a student representative to have the ability to voice the opinions of my peers,” said student representative Austin White.
Even though White and Anderson’s roles are similar, they work independently as White focuses on the senior class and Anderson on the junior class.
TASD school board treasurer Cathy Harlow appreciates getting the students’ perspectives on issues and feels it’s beneficial for the board.
“They provide insight into how decisions made by the school board may impact students either directly or indirectly,” said Harlow.
The student representatives do not get to vote on issues discussed in the board meetings, however, they provide a student perspective for the board when making decisions that impact the students.
“The school board likes to hear updates within the school and remain informed on the students and activities. I think it means a lot to them to hear directly from the students because they get to hear everything from our point of view,” said student representative Alivia Anderson.
Students who have questions or concerns about issues in the school can speak to either student board representative, who in turn, can bring that issue up at a board meeting.
Any student entering grades 11 or 12 interested in serving as student board representative next year should contact High School Principal Chad Packer.
“The position is a great opportunity for any student looking to have their voice and the voice of their peers heard in a productive and professional setting. It is also an incredible leadership opportunity and an excellent addition to a resume for students looking to begin their professional work career, join the military, or continue their education in college or trade school,” said school board member Kris Laird.
