PMSA Student Named to State Board of Ed. Student Council

From Proviso Township High Schools District 209:

A Proviso Math and Science Academy junior recently was appointed to the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) Student Advisory Council.

Khushi Suri, 16, received word of her appointment to the council in late August after she had applied last spring. The student advisory council, according to the ISBE, brings student concerns to the attention of the ISBE.

Khushi said that she was drawn to apply to the student advisory council because she has been active in student government. She also was part of the panel of students, parents, and teachers who helped select a new principal at PMSA.

"It seemed to be a good leadership position to help with all of the kids in Illinois," Khushi said.

To apply for one of the 11 openings on the council, she had to answer five essay questions on leadership, get two letters of recommendation, and have her principal approve of her application. She then was chosen for an interview with the ISBE administration to discuss her qualifications.

Mr. Mike Hatfill, principal consultant with the ISBE, said that Khushi’s application stood out among others.

"It was very well-rounded," he said. "She went into depth on the questions and provided several points of view. She was very enthusiastic in her interview, and she had a certain amount of maturity as she answered our questions."

On the council, Khushi will help to advise the ISBE on a topic such as physical education standards in schools and ISBE budget analysis. She said that the council would find out its task for this school year at its first meeting on September 18 and 19 in Bloomington.

"This is a good opportunity to make a difference," Khushi said.

Dr. Bessie Karvelas, principal of PMSA, said that Khushi is a good example of the leaders the schools develops.

"She’s a perfect example of what Proviso Math and Science Academy is about," Dr. Karvelas said. "We nurture leaders and she is a prime example."

Congratulations Khushi! You are a great contributor to Proviso Rising!