Student Voices Join the School Board
In a move to include student perspectives, Waukegan Community Unit School District 60 has welcomed two new student members to its Board of Education. Franki Jacobo, a sophomore, and Trajhor Allen, a senior, were sworn in during a recent meeting. Their inclusion marks a significant step towards giving students a say in decisions that affect their education.
Students Rise to the Occasion
The surprise came quickly when board President Michael Rodriguez asked for their input during a discussion on grading policies. Allen and Jacobo were taken aback but rose to the occasion. They shared their thoughts on behavior in grading and the importance of consistent policies.
- Jacobo mentioned how engagement and academic ability can impact grades.
- Allen agreed with increasing graduation requirements from 17 to 23 credits.
Preparing for Future Meetings
Both students are determined to be well-prepared for future meetings. They plan to:
- Study agenda items thoroughly
Take notes to contribute effectively
- Allen sees this as a learning opportunity to represent her peers.
- Jacobo views it as a chance to serve his community.
They both aim to gather input from students across all grade levels, ensuring their voices are heard.
Beyond the Classroom
Jacobo and Allen are not just students; they are actively involved in various school and community activities.
- Jacobo is part of the JOTC, the chess team, and volunteers in religious education.
- Allen is in the National Honor Society, dances, works part-time, and volunteers for the Waukegan Park District.
Their diverse experiences bring a unique perspective to the board.
Selection Process and Role
The selection process for student members involves:
- Voting by peers
- The board choosing from the top two vote-getters
This ensures that the student representatives truly reflect the student body's interests. As non-voting members, Jacobo and Allen will bring fresh ideas and advocate for policies that benefit all students in the district.