Release Date:
OLYMPIA, WA — The Washington State Board of Education is accepting applications from current high school sophomores to serve as the Board’s next Student Board Member for the 2026–2028 term. Interested students can visit the Association of Washington Student Leaders (AWSL) website to access the application and learn more about the opportunity.
The Board encourages students from all backgrounds and postsecondary plans to apply. No prior experience in education policy or formal student leadership is required. In particular, the Board seeks students who can understand and communicate the experiences of a wide range of students, including those who have faced academic challenges, pursued alternative learning pathways, or navigated school while experiencing barriers outside the classroom.
The Board’s two Student Board Members represent more than one million students statewide and play an important role in shaping the Board’s work. Student members hold the same responsibilities as adult members. They attend all Board meetings, contribute to discussions, and vote on policy changes.
“Serving on the State Board of Education has not only given me the chance to represent my community and students statewide, but also the chance to learn more about myself and the education system I’m a part of,” said Abby Wu, one of the Board’s current student members and a Pullman High School senior. “This experience, from application to the work I partake in today, has equipped me with skills I’ve utilized to become a force for change.”
Eligible students must meet the following criteria:
-
Reside in and attend a public or private school in Washington State during their term (2026–2028).
-
Be a current sophomore (rising junior) at the time of selection.
-
Be able to devote sufficient time to Board responsibilities, including attending scheduled State Board of Education Board meetings.
-
Have a positive academic and/or extracurricular record, which may be demonstrated by grades, activities, accomplishments, and/or recommendations of peers, educators, or community members.
-
Commit to making up missed schoolwork due to Board meetings and related activities.
Benefits
Serving on the Board offers a unique professional development opportunity and a powerful platform for student voice. Student members gain leadership skills, policy experience, and professional connections that can support future goals after high school.
Student members also work alongside policy and education leaders from across the state, many of whom can serve as strong professional references for career, college, or military applications.
Student Board Members are reimbursed for travel expenses and may receive a stipend of up to $100 per day for Board meetings and other required activities.
Educators and Community Leaders: Help Spread the Word
Want to help spread the word to students in your life? Know someone who would be a great fit? We often hear that encouragement from a trusted adult is one of the main reasons students decide to apply.
You can help us share this incredible opportunity in two simple ways:
-
Download and share our Student Board Member Brochure. It includes everything a student needs to know about the role, benefits of serving, and how to apply.
-
Share our announcement posts on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.
Please Direct All Media Inquiries To:
Colton Kaltenfeldt, Communications Manager