On Wed. Jan. 27 junior Mary Hinnah was sworn in as the 2016-2017 student representative for the School District of Washington’s Board of Education.

“I was pretty excited to hear that I got the position,” said Hinnah. “I didn’t really expect it.”

Hinnah was one of three candidates who were in the running for the position opening. Juniors Courtney Summers and  Haley Woll were both selected along with Hinnah as the top three candidates to run for this position.

“I’m not the first student representative,” Hinnah said. “I am the first student to be voted on the board by other students, so I guess that’s why this is a big deal.”

Applicants had to write an essay and submit a 30-second video to BJJTV. From the essay, school board members selected the top 3 candidates. On Jan. 15, fourth hour teachers showed the BJJTV Friday Show which contained the videos. After watching the show, students voted online for whom they deemed fit for the position.

Ever since the 2013-2014 school year, the BOE has had a student on the board. The previous representatives were picked by the board members without the votes of the rest of the school. Hinnah’s election has gained a lot more recognition because of the whole school’s involvement. Teachers and students alike think that this student involvement is what has lacked in years prior.

“I think having a student on the school board is a great idea.” ISS teacher Dallas Stapp said. “Students have the right to voice their opinion just like everyone else.”

Hinnah believes that this new position of leadership will further her future dreams.

“I’ve always wanted to be a chemistry teacher,” Hinnah said. “Being on the school board will give me an insight on how everything works regarding school before I’m even a teacher.”  

Hinnah is in charge of communicating with students throughout the district. She will also attend all meetings but will not attain confidential information.

“Mary will participate in the public BOE meetings, but not a part of the executive decisions,”  BOE member John Freitag said. “It will probably take Mary a meeting or two to become comfortable in her role as student representative.”

As the student representative, Hinnah will listen to the BOE members and give her input when a student’s opinion is needed.

“At the first meeting, they (board members) brought up the online classes that will be offered next year,” Hinnah said. “I gave them my opinion on how students will able to handle the new classes.”

BOE members are excited about having another student on the board. They are looking forward to getting to work for a whole year with Hinnah.

“I am confident that Mary will represent her fellow students at WHS well,” Freitag said.