History

History

On April 8, 2014, the Student Empowerment Unit petitioned the LA Unified Board of Education, requesting that a student be appointed to the board. The petition contained signatures from students and teachers. In 2015, Leon Popa, a student at Bernstein High School, was elected by his peers to serve as the first Student Board Member. 

The Student Board Member position exemplifies the district's dedication to elevating and empowering student voices. By integrating student perspectives into the decision-making process, the position ensures that students' unique insights and experiences are considered, playing a pivotal role in shaping educational policies and practices. This approach not only validates the importance of student input but also fosters a more inclusive, equitable, and responsive educational environment.

Since Leon's tenure, Student Board Members have made remarkable strides in advocating for inclusion in addressing the most critical issues and decisions in public education. They have become powerful beacons  of leadership, resilience, and potential, representing the voices and interests of students across Los Angeles with vision and purpose.

LA Unified’s Student Board Members

1. Leon Popa (Helen Bernstein High School, 2015-2016) 
2. Karen Calderon (Alexander Hamilton High School, 2016-2017)
3. Benjamin Holtzman (Alexander Hamilton High School, 2017-2018)
4. Tyler Okeke (Dr. Richard A. Vladovic Harbor Teacher Preparation Academy, 2018-2019) 
5. Frances Suavillo (Carson High School, 2019-2020) 
6. Kamarie Brown (Crenshaw High School, 2020-2021)
7. Parishi Kanuga (Cleveland Charter High School, 2021-2022) 
8. Nate Shin (North Hollywood High School, 2022-2023) 
9. Karen Ramirez (Girls Academic Leadership Academy, 2023-2024)
10. Anely Cortez-Lopez (Gardena High School, 2024-2025)