Six student representatives sworn in; students report on activities, tutoring and volunteer projects

The District 128 Board of Education on Aug. 25 officially administered the oath of office to six student board representatives and heard short reports on student life, clubs, academics and volunteer work.

Why it matters: Student representatives provide direct feedback to the board on school climate, extracurricular participation and priorities that affect student experience.

The board recited the oath in ceremony; the oath asked student representatives to “accept the responsibility to represent the student body” and to bring a variety of student voices to the board table. The newly sworn student representatives then summarized priorities from their schools.

Osho Rash said his reports will focus on student life and activities, highlighting senior traditions and clubs, including computer science activities and the orchestra. Annika Talati focused on volunteering and career development and recommended an updated district database of local volunteer, job and internship opportunities for high school students. Olivia Bush highlighted peer tutoring and athletic support, noting Vernon Hills' peer-tutoring program and the new athletic director, Justin Cooper. Andy Scribe and Ruheep Hathill described school traditions, club leadership and community engagement; Ava Gratator described strong freshman participation in orientation and credited a new cell-phone policy with improved hallway interactions.

What the board did: The oath was administered; no formal votes were required. Board members expressed appreciation for the student reports and said the feedback helps inform board priorities.

Next steps: Student representatives said they will continue to review board agendas, report back to peers and coordinate with principals and staff on topics they raise.