Aliya Farrand, a senior at Howell High School, has been selected to serve on the Michigan Department of Education (MDE) Student Advisory Council for the 2024-2025 school year. This prestigious council gives students from across the state a unique opportunity to offer their perspectives on educational policies and initiatives.
The MDE Student Advisory Council, sponsored by State Superintendent Michael F. Rice, aims to amplify student voices in the education system. Farrand chose to apply for the council at the suggestion of Erin MacGregor, Howell Public Schools superintendent, and Jason Schrock, Howell High School principal.
Each year, the council focuses on critical issues affecting students within Michigan. As a member of the council, Farrand will attend monthly meetings facilitated by fellow council members. These meetings will provide a platform for students to engage directly with Rice and other MDE leaders, offering feedback on ongoing and new MDE initiatives. Council members are also encouraged to participate in additional work-groups and are expected to contribute to at least one meeting by taking on roles such as note-taking or facilitation.
“I hope to be able to make an impact by presenting my ideas to the council with my unique background in education,” Farrand said. “During our last meeting, we talked about joining different breakout groups that focus on different issues.”
Farrand hopes to become a part of the group on chronic absenteeism.
“This group will focus on the different reasons why kids might miss 10% or more of their school days and come up with a goal on how to reduce absenteeism and increase student engagement,” she said. “ I am very honored to be chosen to be a part of this council, and I look forward to representing our school.”
“We are incredibly proud of Aliya for being selected to represent our school on the MDE Student Advisory Council. I know that she will provide valuable insights to state leaders and empower her to advocate for positive changes within the education system,” said Schrock, Howell High School principal. “This is an excellent opportunity for her to contribute to meaningful discussions that will shape the future of education in Michigan.
For the 2024-25 school year, the MDE Student Advisory Council will meet monthly with Rice and other MDE department leaders to provide perspective and feedback on new or ongoing MDE initiatives and efforts.
