Ethan LaFrance, Senior, Concord High School
How does it feel to be a student representative to the school board?
For Peter and me, serving as student representatives on the school board is a real honor and an exciting opportunity. I see this as a way to learn, outside of the classroom, about issues that touch all students here in Concord.
What made you want to get involved?
I think it will be great for Peter and me to see our school district from a new vantage point. At the same time, we have the chance to share our unique perspectives, as students, and I know that both of us will work hard to do so.
Be honest: Did you just do this to get out of class?
Well if that was the reason, I'm not quite sure I'd admit it to the Concord Insider. In all seriousness, of course, not!
What do you like to do when you're not attending school board meetings?
As a rower with Concord Crew, I really like being a part of such a great team and taking part in such a terrific sport. I'm also counting down the days until ski season!
Is there anything you would try to change about Concord High now that you have a say?
I think there are always areas for improvement, and if Peter and I can help contribute to progress in the schools by working with educators and the other committed inpiduals, including the Concord School Board, who do important work every day, we will. There are also many unsung heroes in Concord's schools, whether you're looking at the actions of students, parents or staff. We feel that part of our purpose is to sing the praises of those people and bring attention to the great work they are doing.
Ever run/been elected for anything else?
I've run for and served in leadership positions on the teams and student organizations I'm a part of. It's always a pleasure to get involved and serve in the groups and communities within our school, but by my senior year, thinking about the concrete, tangible contributions I've worked to make and brainstorming new ways to get things done, matters a lot more than thinking about the specific titles and positions I've gained.
Peter Rouvalis, Senior, Concord High School
How does it feel to be a student representative to the school board?
Great! It is a privilege to represent the student body at such an important level. I look forward to working with the school board this year.
What made you want to get involved?
I was invited to participate by the Concord High School administration. I've heard of students in the past serving on the school board, and it sounded like a good learning opportunity.
Is there anything you would try to change about Concord High now that you have a say?
I will try to maintain the eight- period schedule that our school currently uses. If it were to change to seven periods, my class would not be affected, but the other grades would be.
Be honest: Did you just do this to get out of class?
Believe it or not, I knew the meetings would not occur during school hours.
What do you like to do when you're not attending school board meetings?
Play tennis, shoot some hoops and hang with the guys.
Ever run/been elected for anything else?
I was elected class president for my sophomore and junior years.
This must look good on college applications; what schools are you looking at?
A variety of schools, including UConn, Bates and UNH.