The bill, S.B. No. 218, mandates that each school district's board of trustees establish a nonvoting student trustee position. This new role is intended to enhance student representation within school governance. The bill outlines the process for appointing the student trustee, which includes the development of a uniform application form by the commissioner, solicitation of applicants by high school principals, and selection of candidates by the board of trustees. The student trustee must be a high school student in good academic standing and will serve a one-year term, with specific eligibility requirements and responsibilities defined.

Additionally, the bill repeals Section 11.0511 of the Education Code, which may have previously addressed student representation or related matters. The student trustee will have the same powers and duties as board members, except for voting rights and quorum considerations. The position is unpaid, but students may be reimbursed for expenses incurred while attending board meetings. The act is set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Education Code 11.0511 (Education Code 11)