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Board hears proposal to restore student advisory council led by student board members; members press on transportation and selection equity
Summary
Dr. Ruiz and student board member Foss proposed a monthly student advisory council of non‑voting student leaders from each comprehensive high school and other sites, backed by a small annual budget for transportation and lunch; board members asked for details about transportation, selection equity and how student input will feed into board agendas.
Dr. Ruiz introduced a plan to reconstitute a student advisory council led by the two non‑voting student board members and supported by district staff. The proposal calls for monthly meetings with student‑led agendas, representation from each comprehensive high school (three students each) and smaller campuses (two students each), eligibility requirements (2.7 cumulative GPA, good attendance, and no major disciplinary issues), and a modest budget of about $4,000 for transportation and lunches. The proposal also includes two $500 scholarships for student leaders.
Student board member Foss described a selection process led by school principals and emphasized representation across student groups. "All these students that are being selected will of course... make sure that they have a strong attendance record, no major disciplinary issues, a cumulative GPA of 2.7 or higher," Foss said, and added the group would aim to bring perspectives not usually heard by the board.
Board members welcomed the proposal but raised questions about transportation feasibility and asked staff to explore alternatives such as UTA passes, minimized travel windows, and hosting rotations to limit strain on the district's transportation system. Members also urged that the council produce a short memo of recommendations to the board to ensure student input results in actionable outcomes.
What happens next: Staff will return with details about the selection process, transportation options, and a proposed calendar for the council so the item can be scheduled for further board consideration.
