As early voting continues in North Carolina, Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools high school students are participating in an election for the 2025 student advisor to the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Board of Education. Ten finalists have been selected, representing increased student interest. Voting is open to CMS students in grades nine through twelve from October 21 to November 5. The student advisor role enables participants to voice student concerns at board meetings, enhancing communication between students and educational leaders.
As the early voting period continues across North Carolina, Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools (CMS) high school students are also participating in an election—specifically, for the 2025 student advisor to the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Board of Education. The competition has attracted significant interest, with ten students, including eight juniors and two sophomores, now serving as finalists. Voting is open to all CMS students in grades ninth through twelfth from October 21 to November 5, coinciding with election day. However, only those students aged 18 and meeting other eligibility criteria may participate in the broader presidential, state, and local elections. The student advisor role was established in 2016 to foster student engagement with the board, allowing for the representation of student concerns at board meetings, although the advisor does not have voting rights. Additionally, the student advisor acts as an officer of the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Youth Council and collaborates with various partners, including Generation Nation. The selected advisor will serve from January through December of the following year. Currently, Ailen De Bonis, a senior from Ardrey Kell High School, holds this role. Notably, there has been a remarkable increase in applications for this position, surging by 59% from 93 applicants in 2023 to 148 in 2024. For the first time, students from every comprehensive high school in the district submitted applications, reflecting an expanding interest in this opportunity. Dee Rankin, vice-chair of the Board of Education, remarked on the significance of the student advisor’s influence, stating, “The student advisor plays an important role in Board thinking and decisions. We are pleased that the push to attract a large pool of candidates was successful and that students saw this as a real opportunity to help inform Board decisions through their student perspective.” The finalists for the position include students from various high schools, each bringing unique perspectives and ambitions for their tenure as student advisor. Noteworthy candidates include: – Gabriel Guerra Barceló from Charlotte Engineering Early College, who aims to advocate for underrepresented students. – Quinten Canty of West Charlotte High School, passionate about representing marginalized voices. – Tatiana Collins from Independence High School, focused on ensuring students are informed and engaged in board matters. – Alejandra Flores at Olympic High School, who aspires to create an inclusive environment for all students. – Sydney Glover of Garinger High School, aiming to give a voice to underserved student populations. – Katelyn Morton from Northwest School for the Arts, advocating for the arts and equitable resource access. – Ngozi Nwauwa of East Mecklenburg High School, committed to supporting students’ academic success. – Lucy Silverstein from Providence High School, focusing on inclusivity and mental health resources. – Madden Wilkinson at Hopewell High School, who emphasizes the importance of student voice in board decisions. These diverse candidates exemplify the active engagement and advocacy among CMS students, making it clear that they are committed to shaping their educational experience and community involvement.
The significance of the student advisor to the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Board of Education dates back to its establishment in 2016. This role was introduced to facilitate direct communication between the school board and students, encouraging the representation of student interests within educational governance. The advisory position allows students to participate in meetings and contribute their insights, although it does not provide voting privileges. Given the rising number of applications and broad participation from diverse schools, this year demonstrates a strengthened enthusiasm among students to engage with educational leadership.
In conclusion, the election of a student advisor to the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Board of Education serves as a pivotal opportunity for CMS students to make their voices heard in important educational discussions. The significant increase in applicants indicates a growing commitment to student governance and the importance of representation in decision-making processes. The finalists, with their diverse backgrounds and advocacy goals, stand ready to address the specific needs and concerns of their peers, thus fostering a more inclusive and supportive educational environment.
Original Source: www.charlotteobserver.com
