Board of education announces new student members

The City School District of Albany is thrilled to announce that Albany High students Charlotte Baldes and Zion Morley (pictured left to right) will be serving as student members on the Board of Education for the 2026-27 school year!

Fifteen Albany High students in grades 10 and 11 submitted an application to serve as student board of education members for the upcoming year, and four finalists were interviewed by the selection committee, which consisted of current student board of education members Cleana Brummell and Carmen Sampona, Principal Jodi Commerford, Student Engagement Principal Shermaine Moore-Boakye, Albany High teacher and Student Government Association club advisor Sean Fitzsimons and this year's junior class representatives.

After thoughtful consideration, Baldes and Morley were selected as the final candidates and were extended a formal invitation to serve as student board members, which they accepted with enthusiasm.

"I look forward to ensuring all student voices are heard, keeping the board informed about the impressive events and accomplishments occurring at Albany High and developing my own skills for after high school along the way," Baldes shared. 

Baldes is a rising senior at Albany High, and she attended Albany School of Humanities and Stephen and Harriet Myers Middle School. She is a talented musician, participating in Wind Ensemble, Jazz Improvisation, Pit Orchestra and the Marching Falcons. Baldes also is a part of French Club and a member of the Tri-M Music Honor Society.

Morley is a rising junior at Albany High, and he arrived to the City School District of Albany as a grade 9 student at Albany High after emigrating from the Bahamas. Morley is a superb artist, and is currently taking Photography and Drawing/Painting I. He also is a student-athlete, competing on the boys' varsity swimming/diving team and boys' junior varsity tennis team.

"As a student board member, I’m excited to bridge the gap between students and leadership," Morely stated.  "I’ll focus on bringing student feedback to the table to improve mental health support, school culture and inclusivity, making sure our voices shape long-term policy."

Baldes and Morely will serve in an advisory, non-voting role on the board. They will represent the entire student body for the district by attending and participating in bimonthly board meetings. 

We are proud of Baldes and Morley for their leadership and commitment to our elementary, middle and high school students districtwide. We wish them the best as they prepare for their official leadership duties, which will commence on July 1.