Sunnyslope senior Nate Isham has been appointed to the Arizona State Board of Education’s 10-member Student Advisory Panel (submitted photo).
Nate Isham, a senior at Sunnyslope High School, was recently appointed to the Arizona State Board of Education’s Student Advisory Panel. The panel serves as a platform for student leaders with civic-minded objectives to provide input on educational matters and plays a pivotal role in aiding state officials in formulating educational policies.
The 10-member Student Advisory Panel is composed of second-year, third-year, and fourth-year students attending high schools in Arizona. They convene virtually once a month and hold quarterly in-person meetings in downtown Phoenix.
Isham was first introduced to the panel during his participation in the American Legion’s Arizona Boys State this summer in Flagstaff. It was during this event that he had a conversation with Kaleb Gebresillasie, a senior at Phoenix Country Day School, who currently serves as the youth chair.
“I was intrigued by this opportunity, having just been Junior Class president and getting a broader view of the teachers and administration. This would allow me to represent our voice to statewide decision-makers,” Isham said. “The Arizona Board of Education has an awesome responsibility overseeing 1.4 million students, feeling it was important to have a Title 1 school represented, and I wanted my viewpoint to be part of the educational policymaking process.”
Isham, who earned his Eagle Scout through North Central’s Troop 329, thought this was another way to be a part of a team that was making a difference in the community.
“I am continually seeking ways to challenge myself and gain deeper insights into an issue, as well as to contribute to driving substantial changes,” he said.
Isham is aware of the expectations placed upon him and maintains optimism about his potential to bring valuable contributions to the board.
“I am proud that they recognized my background and skillset, and believe that I can bring value,” he added. “I have an interest in government and have gained substantial knowledge from my experience at Boys State. I am not one who hesitates to voice my opinions when I perceive partiality. All students must be afforded a level playing field.”
Upon graduating from Sunnyslope, Isham is contemplating a career in the military.
“I consider myself fortunate to have attended schools in the Madison District and now Sunnyslope High School,” he said. “This has provided me with exposure to a diverse population and has allowed me to discern effective and ineffective practices from a student’s standpoint. I am enthusiastic about this assignment and the potential opportunities that lie ahead.”
