DeKalb GA News

When the State Student Advisory Council convenes in November, Anna Katz, a senior at Lakeside High School, will be among those influencing education policy in Georgia. Selected by State School Superintendent Richard Woods, Anna is one of 74 students chosen statewide to represent their schools and districts.

Anna expressed her excitement upon learning of her appointment: “I was super excited. I immediately started thinking about the topics I wanted to bring up at the meetings.”

Her journey into advocacy began during her sophomore year when she challenged the DeKalb County School District's dress code policy. Her efforts contributed to revising the rules to better reflect modern societal norms while respecting student individuality.

“That experience made me realize how impactful it is to have access to decision-makers,” Anna said. “It’s much easier to advocate for change when you can communicate directly with those in charge.”

Superintendent Woods emphasized the importance of student input: “These young leaders represent the future of Georgia, and their voices are crucial as we continue to shape the direction of education in our state.”

The council, established by the Georgia Department of Education, involves students in policymaking and ensures educational policies reflect their experiences. Members are selected based on leadership, community service, and academic achievements.

As a representative from DeKalb County School District and metro Atlanta, Anna aims to amplify diverse perspectives. She acknowledges her unique viewpoint as a female Jewish student but strives to understand and represent other demographics actively.

“I’m a female student and Jewish, so I can share from those experiences,” she noted. “But I recognize I don’t fully understand the experiences of Hispanic, Black, or male students.”

One significant issue Anna intends to address is disciplinary inequality in schools. As a dual-enrollment student at Georgia Tech, she explores this topic through a public policy class project focused on school discipline disparities.

“The number one thing I want to work on with the council is how to reduce those discipline disparities and ensure all students are in school,” Anna stated.

In addition to her advocacy work, Anna leads within her school community as president of the Jewish Student Union and co-president of the Mock Trial team. Aspiring to become a civil rights lawyer, she views her role on the council as an opportunity for broader societal impact.

“I’m looking forward to representing all DeKalb students,” she said. “I hope to do us justice and drive positive changes that will benefit everyone.”