North Bend Central is adding a new voice to its Board of Education this school year with the selection of senior Emma Williams as the district’s student board representative.
NBC Superintendent Patrick Ningen said the idea developed after attending workshops through the Nebraska Association of School Boards, where district leaders learned about similar programs at other schools.
“Other schools have student board members, and our board thought it would be a great way to incorporate a student perspective into decision making,” Ningen said.
At the last NBC Board Meeting on August 24, three student candidates were interviewed after each had submitted an application and references.
“The decision of the board to choose a student member was difficult, as all candidates were exceptional,” Ningen said. “Emma was able to articulate thoughtful and thorough conversational answers when interviewed. Her connection to the student body and experience as an NBC student will be a valuable component to our board.”
For Williams, the opportunity provides a chance to both represent her classmates and gain a better understanding of the district.
“I was interested in serving as a student representative because it provided me a great opportunity to learn more about my school,” Williams said. “I’m looking forward to the opportunity to learn a lot of new things and give student insight to the school board.”
Williams believes including students in conversations about the district policies and changes is especially valuable because of how closely Board decisions can affect their day-to-day school experience.
Williams participates in cross country, track and field, band, chorus, musical, one-acts, drama club, speech, art club, National Honor Society, science club, Spanish club and quiz bowl while at NBC.
Williams is the daughter of Bruce and Amy Williams.