Student School Board Representatives
Published September 2025
Get to Know Our Student School Board Representatives
At School District 197, we believe that students should have a meaningful voice in shaping their schools and classrooms. To amplify student voice and ensure that students are a part of the decision-making process, we have two high school students to serve as School Board Student Representatives each school year. Their primary roles are to provide insight from a student lens and support and enhance the Board’s understanding of student issues and how students experience their education. This year’s Student Representatives are seniors Evangeline Fuentes and Rhys Walsh. They shared with us why they serve on the school board, things they have learned by participating in meetings, and how they stay involved in our community.
Evangeline Fuentes
Why did you want to become a School Board Student Representative?
I chose to apply for the School Board Student Rep position because I wanted to be able to help support decisions and provide my feedback within our district on such a high level. I also had the blessing of being such good friends with many of the past Student Reps and I think this experience really benefited them which is inspiring for me as I come into the role.
What are your goals this year as a School Board Student Representative?
My goals are to help the students communicate their opinions and ideas effectively to the School Board and to also provide updates on current district wide events to keep people connected.
How can students get more involved in the decision-making process?Students’ feedback is always needed in order for our school to have proper feedback when making decisions. Sharing your opinion with either myself or Rhys or even following our instagram @197studrep to stay updated are great ways. If you have a thought you should always try to share it, especially if you would like change.
What are your hopes and dreams for the future of our school district?
I hope as a school district we can become even more connected in ways like attending district events, volunteering at events, integrate connectivity with all ages and overall just furthering the opportunities in our community. District 197 has so many diverse unique students and staff and I think seeing that shine and grow through different events is really amazing.
Rhys Walsh
Why did you want to become a School Board Student Representative?
I want to be a student board of representative because I want to expand my knowledge of how the district works so I can better effect change inside it. This school system has always been very kind to me and I can't wait to start.
What are your goals this year as a School Board Student Representative?
My goals this year are to be a voice for the student athletes of ISD 197, a voice for the female students and for the minority students because we always need more of those. Another goal is to grow and learn as a person so I can effect better change throughout my school.
How can students get more involved in the decision-making process?Connecting with all different types of students. Understanding the needs of all kids can help students be more effective at voicing the needs of all the students. Another way is connecting with teachers. They have a lot of connections and knowledge within the school.
What are your hopes and dreams for the future of our school district? That we keep doing what they have been doing. This district is such an ideal place to go to school at least from my end and I hope that even with certain factors in play going into 2025-2026 this district can remain a safe space for all students but I also hope that I can become a person that my district will be proud of because of this experience.