Schools

New Student School Board Member Says, 'Students Are the Largest Stakeholders'

"Students are the largest stakeholders, but we are noticeably underrepresented in making critical decisions in the schools system," said Justin Kim, 18, of Gaithersburg.

Meet Justin Kim, junior at Poolesville High and an 18-year-old Gaithersburg native who will serve as student member of the Montgomery County Board of Education next year. 

Kim was elected to the position with 65 percent of the student vote, Montgomery County Public Schools announced April 26. All secondary students in the system were eligible to participate in the election. 

Patch spoke to Kim about what he hopes to achieve during his term and the challenges the school system faces. 

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Patch: Why did you want to become a member of the Montgomery County Board of Education?

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Justin Kim: I’ve always had a passion for service and working with others towards a common goal. Throughout my life, I am always looking for new ways to help others and create positive change in my community. During my work in countywide student organizations, such as the Student Advisory Council and the Montgomery County Regional SGA, there was a moment where I knew that I wanted to do more and make a greater difference for my peers. The position of the Student Member on the Board of Education (SMOB) is such a unique opportunity for me to continue to serve the students of Montgomery County, tackling tough issues that affect students every day.

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Patch: What education issues or initiatives are most important to you? Why?

Kim: Throughout the campaign, I made it clear to the students that I’m ready to take action. As SMOB, my priorities revolve around key goals such as increasing student input in the policymaking process, refocusing our priorities to close the achievement gap, and ensuring that all of our students graduate with a strong academic and social foundation that prepares them for the real world.

However, before I become the newest member on the Board of Education, I will be on [a] steep learning curve as I acquaint myself with the multitude of issues and facets in our school system. I want to take analytical steps to determine where and how MCPS can make changes.

However, it is important to note that the role of the SMOB is not a one-person job. As SMOB, I will be seeking the vigorous feedback and support of my peers through organizations such as the Student Advisory Council, the Montgomery County Students’ Coalition and in schools across the county. As the largest stakeholders in MCPS, students deserve a fighting chance to make real changes in their community. That’s why I ran for SMOB, and that’s what I plan to accomplish.

 

Patch: What are you most excited to discuss with the other members of the board?


Kim: One of the things that I am truly looking forward to is the opportunity for me to directly engage with the other Board members on a daily basis. As a student advocate, I understand that it is critical for the students to have a SMOB present in these conversations. As the Board deliberates on countless issues, it is vital that the student perspective is represented. I am eager to become acquainted with my fellow Board members and build relationships with them as we discuss ways that we can improve MCPS, refocus our priorities and support our students and staff.

 

Patch: From the student perspective, what is MCPS doing well? What can the school system improve?


Kim: With the best graduation rate among large school systems, stellar SAT/ACT/AP scores, dedicated teachers, and enthusiastic learners, our school system is one of Montgomery County’s greatest gemstones. Students as well as residents take great pride in the school system which is consistently ranked as one of the best in the nation. While we have maintained and will continue to maintain our position as a leader in education, we are facing new challenges and there is certainly room for improvement.

Although we have made progress in recent years, I want to see us take real steps to tackle issues such as closing of the achievement gap. We cannot allow our students’ socioeconomic status to determine their success in school. In addition, I want to increase the student involvement on the Board. Students are the largest stakeholders, but we are noticeably underrepresented in making critical decisions in the schools system. This must be changed to ensure that students are being proactive instead of being reactive to the policies of the Board.

Kim's term begins July 1. He will succeed the current student member, John Mannes, a senior at Northwest High. 


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