Vienna High School student selected for second year on state advisory council

FOX23 News at 9 p.m.

VIENNA, Ill. (KBSI) — Vienna High School junior Olivia Quertermous has been selected to serve a second consecutive year on the Illinois State Board of Education’s Student Advisory Council.

During the 2026-27 school year, Quertermous and other council members will meet virtually with state education officials and stakeholders to share their experiences and perspectives on education policy.

Members will also participate in events such as the Student Summit and present a research project to the State Board of Education in spring 2027.

“I am honored to serve on this council for a second year. I made a lot of progress advocating for Illinois students last year, and I’m excited to build on that advocacy in my second term,” Quertermous said.

Superintendent Joshua Stafford said Quertermous’ selection reflects the value she brought to the council during her first term.

“This experience gives her a unique opportunity to represent students, develop her leadership skills and have a voice in conversations that impact education across Illinois,” Stafford said. “We are proud to see her continue representing Vienna High School in this capacity.”

The council’s members will be formally introduced during a virtual State Board of Education meeting Sept. 16. The meeting will be open to the public and available to watch through ISBE.