Two youths have been announced as the Halton District School Board's (HDSB) student trustees for the next school year (2024-2025).
The roles will be assumed by Kaitlyn Hou, a grade 10 student at Abbey Park High School in Oakville, and Charlie Ochu, a grade 10 student at Oakville Trafalgar High School.
“What drew my heart into campaigning for the role of student trustee was not only the prospect of advocating for thousands of student voices, but the desire to empower more students to advocate for themselves,” said Hou.
"By giving every HDSB student a platform to engage in decision-making regarding their education, I hope to increase engagement, embody the change I wished to see and ensure that every student has a say in their education.”
Hou and Ochu were chosen for the role by their peers through an online election that took place on Feb. 22. This year’s election included 24 candidates and a total of approximately 5,400 students casting votes - nearly doubling the number of votes cast last year, says the HDSB.
“When I first heard of the student trustee role, I was enthralled with the idea of being able to speak on behalf of 67,000 people and change schools for the better,” said Ochu.
“I'm excited to work with Kaitlyn, the board, and my fellow students to leave Halton in an even better state than our predecessors left it while fulfilling my promises to the students who put their trust in me.”
The new term of office officially begins on Aug. 1, 2024.
“The Halton District School Board congratulates newly-elected student trustees Charlie Ochu and Kaitlyn Hou,” said HDSB Chair Amy Collard.
"Student trustees represent all students of the HDSB by sharing their voices at the board table, and collaborating with other trustees on creating positive change for students in Halton. The trustees of the Halton District School Board deeply value student input as we strive to provide our students with the tools and experiences they need to accomplish their goals."