Students Protecting Education (SPE) announces that co-founder Luke Lippitt, Orchard Park High School senior, has been named the second student appointed to the Orchard Park Board of Education as of Monday, July 1. Through SPE’s Project Amplify campaign, this significant milestone underscores SPE’s commitment to fostering diverse, inclusive and equitable education for all students.
Students Protecting Education is a student-led organization that empowers students to use their voices to advocate for positive change within their communities and beyond. Luke's appointment to the school board is a powerful testament to the impact that passionate, driven students can have on educational policy and governance, and it should inspire all students to believe in their ability to effect change.
“I am deeply honored and excited to serve as a catalyst for change and as a representative for student voices on the school board,” said Luke. “In the last few years, our district has taken a significant step forward in truly embracing the importance of student perspectives. I am grateful for the opportunity to contribute to this mission that has sparked my fiery passion for years.”
According to students of Orchard Park High School, the Student Board ex-officio member position is one in which many students are excited to amplify their voices.
"This position bridges the PTO board and the student government board,” says Reese Politowski, a rising senior and student council member at Orchard Park. “This person is responsible for effectively communicating what is happening on both sides (student and adult) so that the boards can work together efficiently. This position allows for changes to be more efficiently addressed. It puts a student's voice on a board usually filled with adults. It will offer a new perspective that may have been missed. All in all, this position is valuable, and there is not a better option of a person to fill it than Luke Lippitt!"
Luke's involvement on the Board of Education is a testament to SPE's core values:
· Education: We stand for a world where quality education is a fundamental right, accessible to all, regardless of background or circumstance.
· Inclusivity: Students should thrive in an environment where they can freely express themselves, shielded from exclusion or marginalization.
· Learning: We champion education that embraces all perspectives, ideas, and viewpoints, paving the way for a future shaped by well-rounded understanding.
· Diversity: Fostering diversity within schools enriches students' perspectives, fostering a deeper appreciation for the tapestry of humanity.
· Access: Every student deserves equal access to resources, books, and opportunities that reflect their identity and that of their peers.
· Leadership: SPE builds leaders who can think critically and use their voices effectively to make positive change.
Luke's role on the Board will not only enhance communication between students and the Board but also bring a unique perspective that may have been missed. This will promote a more holistic approach to educational governance, ensuring all voices are heard and considered in decision-making processes.
“I appreciate the student ex officio board member's perspective,” said Board of Trustee Member Ed Daves. “As a business member in the community, I don’t have the opportunity to experience student life daily. The ex officio gives us valued insight into students’ needs and perspectives.
Luke’s appointment is a significant step towards achieving SPE’s mission of advocating for an inclusive and equitable educational system. SPE will continue to drive change through campaigns like Flip Florida, which supports organizations and interests that are pro-student and anti-book banning within the state of Florida, and Project Amplify, which advocates for the inclusion of student representatives on school boards and offers support in implementing the program.
About Students Protecting Education:
Students Protecting Education is a student-led organization committed to promoting diverse, inclusive, and equitable education for all students across America. We empower students to use their voices to advocate for positive change within their communities and beyond.
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