Board debates student representative vs. larger student advisory council to boost student voice

The Revere Local Board of Education spent substantial time on June 23 exploring how to increase student voice at board meetings, debating a single student representative (or two representatives) versus forming a superintendent student advisory council that would rotate student presenters.

Board members relayed a conversation with a Blackhawk district official that described a student representative who reports on each building, sits with the board, and typically offers occasional input; the Blackhawk model requires an application, essay and petition and restricts the student from adding items directly to the agenda.

Superintendent Mr. White outlined an alternative: a superintendent student advisory council that would gather student leaders from across grade levels and buildings, prepare questions and reports, and provide multiple, rotating student voices rather than placing one or two students at the formal board table. He described practical steps—selection timing (applications after winter break with selection by May), student preparation, and working with existing groups such as the high‑school League of Leaders.

Several board members expressed concern about exposing a single student to the full, sometimes contentious environment of a formal meeting (including public comment). Those members favored presentations at work sessions, rotation of student presenters, or a broader advisory council to reduce pressure on any single student. Other members urged casting a wide net for leadership opportunities, saying the experience provides valuable civic education.

Outcome and next steps: the board asked staff to draft sample policies and selection processes and to return with specific proposals and timelines so members can weigh options (two permanent student reps, rotating presenters, or a superintendent advisory council). No formal vote took place.