As the nation wrestles with critical issues from the future of education to democracy itself, student voices have been left out of the conversation—until now. NASSP recently held its first election for the newly created National Student Council. The ten students elected to the Council will advocate on behalf of millions of their peers on federal policies that directly shape their educational experiences. NASSP’s National Association of Student Councils (NASC) will administer the Council. “I am ecstatic to have the privilege to represent the hearts of student leaders nationwide; it’s an honor that I will not take lightly,” said Anjali Verma, president of the National Student Council and a high school junior in West Chester, PA.
Amplifying Student Voices on the National Stage
For too long, student perspectives have been overlooked in decision-making processes that directly affect their lives and futures. A recent survey found that nearly two-thirds of 12- to 17-year-olds felt elected officials did not reflect the needs and experiences of young people. A 2022 NASSP survey found that only 11% of students report their opinion is represented “a great deal” at the federal level.
The National Student Council aims to change that by ensuring student insights drive meaningful reforms. “We are thrilled to welcome these exceptional student leaders to the National Student Council,” said Ronn Nozoe, CEO of NASSP. “By collaborating directly with these student representatives, we can ensure that student insights drive meaningful reforms that truly address their needs and priorities.”
Meet the Newly Elected Council Members
The 2024–25 National Student Council Officers are:
- President Anjali Verma, a junior at Pennsylvania Leadership Charter School in West Chester, PA
- Vice President of Leadership Development Kaylyn Woods, a sophomore at William M. Davies Career & Technical High School in Lincoln, RI
- Vice President of Service Jacqueline Rogers, a junior at Jefferson City High School in Jefferson City, MO
- Vice President of Membership Paige Goble, a sophomore at Lake Braddock Secondary School in Burke, VA
- Vice President of Communications Jamyson Posey, a sophomore at Fairmont Senior High School in Fairmont, WV
- Secretary Khadija Sissoko, a junior at Ocean Lakes High School in Virginia Beach, VA
- Junior Vice President of Leadership Development Jocelyn Ridenour, a seventh grader at Margaret Buerkle Middle School in St. Louis, MO
- Junior Vice President of Service Evan Rawls, a seventh grader at John P. Freeman Optional School in Memphis, TN
- Junior Vice President of Membership Isabella Schmit, a seventh grader at Tuloso-Midway Middle School in Corpus Christi, TX
- Junior Vice President of Communications Jaycee Lang, a sixth grader at Mexia Junior High in Mexia, TX
Voices From the Council
The newly elected council members expressed their excitement and commitment to amplifying student voices on a national scale.
“Being the first student from West Virginia to serve on the NSC is a huge responsibility, but I am ready to take on the task. I am honored to be serving and can’t wait to start this journey with my fellow officers and NASC!” –Jamyson Posey.
“I am beyond thrilled to join the National Student Council and represent student voices from across the country! This opportunity is an extreme honor that will allow us to bring our unique perspectives to the forefront, ensuring that the decisions impacting our education are truly reflective of our needs and experiences.” –Khadija Sissoko
“Connection and collaboration are what truly grows student leaders across the country. I can’t imagine a better organization to form those connections than the National Student Council, and I can’t think of a better group than this collection of talented officers. I’m honored to be among them, and eager to start implementing our collective goals.” –Paige Goble
A Brighter Future for Student Representation
With the formation of the National Student Council, students now have a powerful voice in shaping the policies that impact their educational journeys. As these exceptional leaders take on their roles, they are poised to drive positive change and ensure that student perspectives are at the forefront of national conversations on education.