Cato-Meridian Central School District has introduced a new voice to the Board of Education: its first-ever ex-officio student board member. Senior Kennedy Taylor is stepping into the role with the goal of representing her peers and ensuring their perspectives are heard.

“My role is to represent the student body. When the Board of Education makes decisions that affect the students, I can give my comments on it,” Taylor said. “I'm not a voting member so I'm really just there to give input from a student’s perspective.”

For Taylor, the most important part of the role is making sure all voices are included. “I think it's important for there to be a student voice because as students we don't get a lot of say. It's important that the person who is the voice understands the perspectives of all the students so that we can see it from multiple viewpoints,” she said.

Taylor also sees the position as valuable preparation for her future goals. “I feel as though this position is like a reporter, because you go there and make comments on what's happening with the students in the school.  I want to be a news anchor when I graduate,” she said.

Outside of the boardroom, Taylor is active in many extracurriculars. “In terms of sports, I'm on a competitive figure skating team. Club-wise, I'm the co-founder of a club called the Devil's Crew where the goal is to spread kindness. I'm also the vice president of my class, the vice president of National Honor Society, part of student council, stage manager of drama club, and editor for yearbook,” she said.

She also finds time for family and fun. “I enjoy watching movies with my family. I have three younger siblings, two of them are here in the high school and one of them is in the elementary school. I hang out with them a lot,” she said.

Looking ahead, Taylor has a clear vision for her impact. “I hope that I represent the students well. I hope that I'm the voice that they deserve,” she said.