On April 9, the Pattonville Board of Education welcomed a Pattonville High School student to serve as a non-voting member on the board. The student representative will serve in an advisory capacity to represent the interests of students in the district. Junior Rylie Faasen was selected as the district’s first student representative. She joined newly elected board members Jeanne Schottmueller, Jan Schweiss and Rená Simmons during the board’s regular meeting in April.

“The board of education is looking forward to the enhanced partnership with our student representative who will bring a new perspective of student voices to our district,” board president Mary Kay Campbell said.

In addition, the student representative will provide information and support to the board during meetings and serve as a resource for board members. Although the student representative on the school board cannot vote, they will serve in an advisory position and provide a student perspective on important issues that the board discusses and takes action on. In her role, Faasen will also provide a monthly report on activities happening at the high school. 

“In addition to her student experience, Riley has been involved with leadership opportunities outside the classroom, including serving on the district’s Calendar Committee and as a member of Sen. Brian Williams’ Youth Advisory Board,” said Dr. Barry Nelson, superintendent. “Her insights and perspective on how decisions at the board level support students is welcomed and appreciated."

Faasen was selected following an application and interview process. Members of BSAAC (Board Student Administrative Action Committee), a group of students who meet with administrators and board members and are focused on school improvement, were invited to apply, which included submitting two letters of recommendation and a video interview. Student representatives will begin their position in April of their junior year.