Release Date:
Last week, student Board Member, Autymn Wilde (Spokane Valley), gave her final presentation to the State Board of Education virtually. As a junior member last year, and this year, as mentor and senior, Autymn brought a passion for student support and advocacy for student well-being to the Board. In her presentation, she discussed her educational journey and the work she hopes to see happen to support students.
After her Zoom presentation, Board Members gave well-wishes and words of wisdom to Autymn.
"As I think about this spring, and how COVID-19 has impacted so many lives, I am mindful that graduating seniors, like you, have had to sacrifice many of the traditions and anticipated moments that go with this rite of passage...as you look forward to what’s next, I wish you all the best and every success," said Board Member, Jeff Estes (Pasco).
"...you are a brilliant young leader who has survived so many challenges. Your campaign on chronic absenteeism and mental health were powerful...you brought student voice forward on testing, graduation requirements, and your advice graduation pathways is valuable. You should feel proud of yourself," said SBE Basic Education Manager, Parker Teed.
More than words, Autymn will also receive a special Native American blanket (and hopefully a ceremony when it is safe to meet again) from Board Member Bill Kallappa II (Tumwater).
Get an overview of some of Autymn's work on the Board by visiting the following links:
- SBE Adopts Resolution in Support of Chronic Absenteeism and Trauma Supports (letter by Autymn)
- Autymn's Student Support Presentation (March 2020)
- Yakama Tribal School Visit Recap with Autymn
- Margarita and Autymn Talk Student Advisory Vote
- TVW Coverage of Autymn's Presentation and Farewell (May 2020)
Autymn has been accepted at, and plans to attend Gonzaga University in Spokane.
"I would really love to explore multiple different classes, including: childhood education, choir, journalism, adolescent psychology, sociology, biology, environmental science, classic literature, art, leadership, European history, metaphysics, etc. High school, for me, was about taking the best classes to get into college. College, for me, will be about not only pursuing a degree in my dream career, but also exploring my outside passions and interests," said Autymn, "I hope to pursue a degree in teaching/education, and minoring in social justice and vocal performance."
The Association of Washington Student Leaders (AWSL) recently selected junior McKenna Roberts (Okanogan) as the new Eastern Washington student Board Member. Expect more information about McKenna as she is officially sworn-in this July.