Student board members to receive mentorship, participate in fall forum; district plans monthly pre-meetings and email channel

Williamsville’s Board of Education on Aug. 12 discussed expanded support for its student board members, including monthly virtual pre-board meetings, a potential email channel for between-meeting communications and the assignment of a single board mentor to provide a consistent point of contact.

District leaders said student board members already received a handbook and attended a virtual pre-board meeting; student participants described the pre-meeting as helpful preparation. Board members asked the student representatives whether they wanted assigned mentors. Two student representatives said they did not feel a mentor was necessary given the pre-meetings and an email channel; another student said a mentor could be helpful for clarifying roles and expectations. Several board members volunteered to serve as mentors and the board agreed to follow up and make an assignment so the students “are assigned a mentor.”

The board also invited student board participation in district events and training. The board scheduled a fall community forum for Saturday, Nov. 1 at 9 a.m., open to students, and discussed a December board retreat. Student board members who attended an ECSB workshop reported takeaways on meeting students where they are, outreach via clubs and social media, and representing a broader student body in reports at regular meetings.

No formal vote was taken; the board will confirm mentor assignments and logistics outside the public session.