Franklin Student Among State School Board Finalists

From BCPS: Ruben Amaya, a junior at Franklin High School, has been named one of four finalists to serve as the student member of the Maryland State Board of Education for 2018 – 2019.In addition to being an honor roll student, Amaya is president of his school’s Student Government Association, a 2nd Lieutenant in the Marine Corps JROTC, a member of the Muslim Student Association and the Black Student Union, and communications director of the Maryland Association of Student Councils. Last year, he was a LEAD conference delegate for the National Association of Student Councils.

Amaya and the other candidates for the student member position will campaign and speak at the Maryland Association of Student Councils’ Legislative Session to be held on Saturday, Feb. 3, at St. Charles High School in Charles County.

In his campaign statement, Amaya wrote: “Seeing students every day fighting for the issues that affect our state has truly inspired me. What I have realized is that if we are to tackle these issues presented to us, we must work together to do so. No longer can we sit back and watch these issues grow into major problems for our fellow peers. Education is the foundation for every students’ future which allows us to pursue our dreams and goals. But, for many this isn’t true. The opportunity gap continues to put students at a disadvantage and this must stop. We need to ensure not only an equal, but an equitable school environment as well. Every student deserves an education that allows them to pursue what they love. Today, we live in a society that is very divisive and continues to hurt many students. We must bring more awareness towards discrimination, racism, mental health, and bullying so that students can prosper in an inviting and welcoming school climate."

Image Via BCPS