The Kentucky Department of Education is seeking public school students in grades 10-12 to serve on the newly-created Next-Generation Student Council.

Education Commissioner Terry Holliday created the council to gain valuable feedback from Kentucky students and to engage student leaders.

The council will meet with the commissioner and Kentucky Department of Education (KDE) staff, both in person and virtually, to provide feedback on critical issues impacting Kentucky students and schools. It also will work with KDE staff to develop ideas aimed at improving and transforming education.

The Next-Generation Student Council is a year-long program for Kentucky public school students in grades 10-12. KDE seeks students to serve on the council who have refreshing ideas and thoughtful insight into how the department can further improve schools and student achievement. As such, students who represent the diverse academic, geographic, demographic and school-size variables particular to our state, are encouraged to apply.

The application and FAQs for the council are now on the KDE website for students to complete and return to KDE via fax, postal mail or e-mail. Applications must be received no later than 4:30 p.m. ET, Nov. 30.

A committee of KDE representatives will review and score all applications based on the answers provided to the questions. Appointments to the council will be based on how well the applicants communicated their ideas and goals. Then, 11 students will be selected for the council to serve during the 2011-12 school year.

KDE encourages administrators to publicize this student opportunity within district high schools and alternative schools, and other appropriate channels such as school-based decision making councils, existing high school student councils, school PTAs, school and/or district newsletters and staff meetings at the district and school levels.

Any questions concerning the council or the application process can be directed to Stephanie Siria at (502) 564-4201, ext. 4817.