Grace Gargrave, a junior at Washington High School, is the new student representative for the School District of Washington’s Board of Education. She was sworn in during the March 12 meeting.

Gargrave replaces Brock Thompson as the student representative to the Board. The terms are for one year.

Interested student candidates recently went through an application and interview process with administration prior to being selected by the high school student body.

“I’m anxious, but excited to see what’s in store for being in this position, and very grateful for the opportunity to be a spokesperson for my peers,” Gargrave said. “I became interested in this position because it opened a door for me to work with the leaders of our district to make the most out of every student’s experience in every Washington school. I believe that everyone has the ability to make a positive impact in any place they occupy, and by taking this role, that’s exactly what I hope to accomplish.”

Grace is highly involved with different clubs and groups at Washington High School, including Mu Alpha Theta, National Honor Society, cross country, track and field, and is a member of the Pride of Washington (WHS Band).

“My favorite class that I’ve taken so far at WHS is Mrs. (Krista) Williams’ Human Body Systems class. She is a very engaging teacher with a hands-on approach to learning through the different labs we do when learning about different functions of the body,” Gargrave said. “I love being a student at WHS because of the student culture. Each student is able to find a place where they belong and be socially and academically engaged in our school, making the experience more personal and fun.”

Outside of school, Gargrave enjoys to run, spend time with friends and family, and travel.

Grace is the daughter of Eric and Ann-Renee Gargrave.

Thompson, in his final meeting as student representative, was recognized by the Board of Education for his year of service.

The student representative is expected to attend all regular board meetings, give student adviser reports, and may be asked to report on particular issues. The representative also is expected to communicate with students throughout the district on a regular basis.

The student representative does not sit in on executive sessions or is privy to any confidential information.

Grace Gargrave, Board of Education Student Representative

Grace Gargrave is sworn in by Board of Education President Dan Leslie.

Grace Gargrave is pictured with Superintendent Dr. Jennifer Kephart and Board of Education members.
Back row, from left, are board members Kelly Brinkmann, Dan Leslie, Rob Horvath, John Freitag,
Dr. Frank Wood and Bob Oreskovic. Not pictured is Kevin Blackburn.  

Outgoing school board student representative Brock Thompson and incoming school board student
representative Grace Gargrave are pictured with Superintendent Dr. Jennifer Kephart and Board of Education
members. Back row, from left, are board members Kelly Brinkmann, Dan Leslie, Rob Horvath, John Freitag,
Dr. Frank Wood and Bob Oreskovic. Not pictured is Kevin Blackburn.