Application Now Open for 2027 Student Board Representative Positions

PHILADELPHIA — The Board of Education is seeking two Student Board Representatives and one Alternate for the 2027 calendar year, and invites current 10th and 11th grade students to apply. The online application will open Friday, August 28 at 5 p.m.

Interested and eligible Philadelphia district and charter school students are encouraged to submit an application via the Board’s website no later than Wednesday, September 30 at 11:59 p.m.

“It has been really fulfilling to contribute to the work of the Board of Education,” said Student Board Representative Brianni Carter, a student at the Philadelphia High School for Girls. “I have learned so much about what it means to set direction and priorities as a governing body.”

“Being a Student Board Representative has given us a real opportunity to make sure student voices are part of the conversations that shape our schools,” said Student Board Representative and CAPA student Semira Reyes. “It’s a chance to lead, learn, and represent our peers. Anyone with ideas, passion, and the courage to make a difference should apply.”

While Student Board Representatives do not vote, they serve in an advisory role representing their peers on the Board of Education. For instance, they report student concerns at the Board’s monthly Action Meetings and share Board actions with students.

“Serving as a Student Board Representative provides an opportunity to act as a voice for students in every corner of the city and to share concerns with the Board,” said Board Vice President Sarah-Ashley Andrews, liaison for Student Board Representatives. “It also gives students experience in the governance of large organizations like a school district. I encourage any interested student to apply for this leadership role to help make a difference in your city.”

To be eligible as a Student Board Representative or Alternate, students must:

• Be a current resident of Philadelphia and attend a Philadelphia district or charter school;
• Be in 10th or 11th grade at the start of their term as a Student Board Representative;
• Have a minimum GPA of 2.5 or higher and be in good standing;
• Be actively involved in their school community and willing to work to support Philadelphia’s public schools, on behalf of their peers, on a regular basis; and
• Be willing to represent their peers at Board of Education meetings, communicate student opinions to the Board, and report Board deliberations and actions to the student body.

Student Board Representatives are expected to participate in the following activities throughout their term:

• Advise the Board of Education on matters in the best interest of all students in Philadelphia, including the development and revision of Board policies;
• Serve on the Superintendent’s Student Advisory Council and the Board of
  Education;
• Serve as leaders that represent the student voice for all Philadelphia public schools (district and charter);
• Attend and participate in public meetings of the Board of Education held outside of their school day;
• Receive orientation, training, and support from the Office of the Board of Education in relation to fulfilling their role on the Board; and
• Participate in weekly Student Board Representative check-ins.

For more information or to access the application, please visit the Board’s website or contact studentboardreps@philasd.org with any questions.

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About the Board of Education

The Board of Education is the governing body responsible for overseeing all policies and budgetary decisions of the School District of Philadelphia. Additionally, the Board of Education serves as the authorizer for all charter schools in Philadelphia. The Board comprises nine members who are appointed by the Mayor and confirmed by City Council.

CONTACT:
Wanda Motley Odom
Deputy Chief, Communications & External Relations
wodom@philasd.org