Albany board welcomes two student representatives to amplify student voice

Acting Vice President Tabitha Wilson opened Monday's meeting by introducing two newly selected student representatives to the Albany City School District Board of Education.

Cleanne Rommel, a senior who said she immigrated from Guyana at age 15, will serve as the board's primary student representative. Rommel told the board she plans to "improve student voice and communication by creating more ways for students to share feedback and ideas directly with school leadership" and to advocate for expanded academic supports and mental‑health resources.

Carmen Sampona, the alternate representative and newly elected student‑government president at Albany High School, said she will work to "foster a far more representative and equitable culture across the many different schools within the district" and described plans for surveys, committees and improved student‑to‑board communications.

Principal Jody Commerford described a selection process that drew more than 15 applicants and included interviews with student‑government leaders and board members. Superintendent Lesko said the district will meet regularly with the student reps and that officers may also convene with them outside scheduled board meetings.

Board members welcomed the students and asked that the pair bring issues back to the board from their peers. The board also asked staff to include the students in orientation materials and future briefings.

The student representatives will attend board meetings twice a month and will present periodic updates on student priorities, the board said.