Mary Grace Watson.

MOULTRIE, Ga. — State School Superintendent Richard Woods has selected 142 Georgia students to serve on his 2017-2018 Student Advisory Council. Colquitt County High School senior Mary Grace Watson has been selected to participate in this opportunity.

Throughout the school year, middle and high school students will meet with Woods to discuss the impact of state policies in the classroom. Members of the Student Advisory Council will also discuss other issues related to education, serve as the superintendent’s ambassadors to their respective schools, and participate in service projects to benefit schools and students.

“Every year, it is so valuable to hear directly from students through my Student Advisory Council,” Woods said. “In the past, we have made direct changes based on student feedback, and I look forward to working with these 142 students who I know will make an impact. I’m so grateful for every student who took the time to apply and share their thoughts.”

Members were selected from a pool of more than 1,500 students who applied to serve on the council. Students were chosen based on the strength of their essay answers, which focused on their ideas for public education as well as their community service experience. The students selected attend public schools all over the state.

Watson shared her thoughts on being selected, “I’m very excited about this wonderful opportunity. I look forward to meeting other students from around Georgia and working with them to strengthen public education.”

CCHS Principal Stephanie Terrell shared, “We are so proud of Mary Grace. She continues to use her leadership talent and ability to be a voice for her fellow students. She will represent Colquitt County well. She is a Packer Point of Pride!”

Meetings of the Student Advisory Council will be held Oct. 3, Jan. 16, and April 10 for middle school students and Oct. 4, Jan. 17, and April 11 for high school students.