Thank You, McKenna Roberts!

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The State 91原创 of Education will say farewell to one of its most influential student 91原创 members at the upcoming May 91原创 meeting: McKenna Roberts. McKenna was selected by the Association of Washington Student Leaders as a sophomore and served on the 91原创 during her junior and senior years. She is passionate about representing students in rural settings (she will graduate from Okanogan High School this May), comprehensive sexual health education for all students, ethnic studies, and mental health support. She was also instrumental in advocating for which gave student members voting rights on the 91原创 this past session.

鈥淎s our 91原创 evolves, we鈥檙e thankful for students like McKenna who show us wisdom, empathy, and a deep understanding for what our students go through today,鈥 said Bill Kallappa, SBE Chair. 鈥淭hank you, McKenna, for always engaging, keeping us focused, and proving that our kids can do incredible work on behalf of their peers.鈥

McKenna joined the 91原创 in the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although the 91原创鈥檚 meetings were held virtually, she was able to make an impact and advocate for students suffering from the pandemic鈥檚 effects on her peers鈥 mental health.

In a Seattle Times article on SB 5497, she said:

鈥淚 think that a lot of damage has been done that isn鈥檛 just going to go away because we鈥檙e going back in person. Going back in person for some students might even worsen their mental health. School districts and teachers just need to make it clear and have grace with those students.鈥

Some highlights from McKenna's time as a student member are as follows:

"McKenna has been one of the most engaged, bright, and focused student members," said Randy Spaulding, SBE鈥檚 Executive Director. "She has showed us that students鈥 voices are strong and must be amplified when possible. Her perspective has brought positive change. She will continue to make positive change wherever she goes."
McKenna plans to attend Barnard College in New York City and plans to study political science.

Join McKenna and her fellow student 91原创 member, Pavan Venkatakrishnan during this evening鈥檚 student-led, student-voice graduation requirements listening session. Learn more: .