As required by New York State, the Oneida City School District has introduced a new position to its Board of Education: an Ex Officio Student Representative. Grady Gaudet has been appointed to represent the student body, with Mitchell Griffing serving as the alternate.

To secure these positions, both Grady and Mitchell underwent a comprehensive application process. This included obtaining teacher references, collecting various signatures, and completing additional requirements. Once the application was finalized, they presented their motivations for seeking these roles to the Board.

Grady articulated his commitment to enhancing the school district's functions and advocating for his peers, stating, "I wanted to do this to help build a better functioning school district and to advocate for my fellow peers. I believe that a voice needs to be heard that stands for the students, and I want to represent the OCSD student body as a whole."

His primary goal is to ensure that student voices are acknowledged and considered in district decision-making. "As students at OCSD, we get to experience everything that is happening throughout the school district, so getting students’ opinions on things is crucial to the success of OCSD."

Mitchell emphasized his passion for learning and personal growth through this experience. He remarked, "I feel as if I can represent the student body very well, and I know what needs to be done in order for a better change... What excites me the most is that this is a very serious position, and when it comes to certain circumstances, I like to be engaged in the conversations and meetings as I can switch from being goofy and giddy to serious in an instant."

Although Mitchell is not required to attend every meeting as the alternate, he approaches the role with sincerity and enthusiasm.

The primary responsibilities of Grady and Mitchell will involve advocating for the student body during board meetings and gathering opinions from fellow students regarding the district's operations. They also aim to set a positive example for their peers, demonstrating the respect that OCSD staff deserve, while embodying integrity and a strong work ethic.

Mitchell has expressed his commitment to effectively managing this role and representing OCSD positively within the community.

Grady has pledged to remain approachable and eager to advocate for worthwhile causes. "I am a 'listen first, talk second' type of student. This position means a lot to me because I get to represent the students of OCSD as a whole, and I get to work with a good friend of mine, Mitchell Griffing, with this position."