Wood River Middle School student Hayden Barbre has been named to the Idaho Department of Education’s Student Advisory Council.
Barbre, who is in eighth grade this school year, was one of 13 students statewide selected for the council. Members will meet quarterly with State Superintendent of Public Instruction Sherri Ybarra to provide input and feedback on a variety of issues facing students in Idaho’s public schools.
“Some of the best and most inspiring moments in my seven years as superintendent have come from meeting and hearing from students,” Ybarra said in a news release. “Their perspective and insights on Idaho’s public education experience are invaluable, especially as we work to recover from the pandemic’s impacts on schools.”
Students serving on the council range from grades 4 through 12. Ybarra made the selections from 60 applicants based on recommendations from a screening committee. Students will provide input on matters like school funding, mental and emotional health, social issues and meeting the needs of individuals with disabilities.
The first meeting took place in Boise on Monday, Sept. 20.