Student School Board Representative
Overview
The Student Representative to the Albemarle County School Board serves as a representative for the cumulative Albemarle County Public Schools (ACPS) student body. This non-voting, advisory position will voice the concerns and interests of the ACPS students, as permitted by Virginia law.
Building Connection
The goal is to create a direct link between ACPS students and the governing School Board. This connection is intended to give students a platform to influence the policies and direction of ACPS, ensuring their voices are heard in decisions that affect them.
Community Service and Learning Opportunity
This initiative seeks to offer students the chance to contribute to their community while gaining a deeper insight into the workings of city and school governance. This experience is designed to enhance students' understanding of how effective governance contributes to creating a supportive learning environment for all ACPS students.
Selection Process
Applications for student representative positions for the next academic year will open to all qualifying students from the month of March.
In April, a list of candidates will be sent to the High School Principal for approval.
- Should any school have over three approved candidates, these applications (with personal details removed) will be reviewed by the school’s student senate or selection committee, which will rank the candidates.
- Up to three candidates from each school will be recommended to the Superintendent by the end of April for further recommendation to the School Board.
The School Board will select four student representatives during its first May meeting, to serve from August to May of the following academic year. These representatives will be publicly announced at the final School Board meeting in May.
At least one representative will be chosen from each high school feeder pattern. Candidates not selected may be considered as alternates, stepping in should a chosen representative from their school be unable to fulfill their duties.
Selection Criteria
- Must be currently enrolled in ACPS as a Sophomore or Junior.
- Must be in good standing, adhering to attendance and behavior expectations.
- Should be willing to represent and advocate for the student body, especially focusing on the inclusion of marginalized voices.
- Must show passion and commitment to their school community.
Roles & Expectations
Student Representative to the School Board will:
- Be mentored by a Board member selected by the School Board Chair,
- Serve in the Student Senate,
- Attend a monthly meeting of Student School Board Representatives to review current issues before the School Board and prepare for the upcoming School Board Meeting,
- Attend regularly scheduled School Board meetings and present a report of approximately three (3) minutes in length on behalf of all students,
- Participate in School Board discussions during work and regular sessions,
- Be eligible to propose resolutions for consideration,
- Observe the same School Board protocols and rules of order and decorum as School Board members, and
- Receive a stipend.