The Board of Education recognized its 2021-22 student representative, Mia Porritt, at its June 7 meeting. She serves as the voice of the student body and as a non voting member of the Board.
“Being on the Board taught me an immense amount and I am so incredibly grateful I got this opportunity to represent my peers,” Mia remarked. “Although I enjoyed many aspects about being on the Board, one of my favorites was public comment. I liked hearing what community members had to say during public comment. Ever since I was young I was fascinated by different outlooks and perspectives people had when it came to issues. I strongly encourage community members, especially students, to use their voice.”
During her term, she made several presentations and reports that helped Board members better understand the students’ perspectives. Among her initiatives was advocating for school safety and creating a safe space for students. She surveyed Chatham High School students regarding how safe they felt in school, how much action they thought the District was taking, and their ideas on how to increase feelings of safety.
Chatham’s student representatives serve on the Board for one school year. Mia’s term will end June 30.
“I was really touched about the recognition the Board gave me. It was very poignant and nice to be recognized by the people I look up to and my role models. Maybe one day I’ll be sitting next to them again,” Mia added.
