In a world where young voices struggle to be heard, the National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP) has just concluded its second annual election for the National Student Council (NSC). Selected by their peers, these 12 proven student leaders will champion the concerns and aspirations of millions of their fellow students across America. Through this powerful platform, students will directly influence federal policies that impact their education and future. The National Association of Student Councils (NASC), an NASSP program, will continue to administer the NSC. 

“The National Student Council has transformed how Washington hears student perspectives, creating real policy changes that directly improve classroom experiences nationwide,” said Ronn Nozoe, CEO of NASSP. “These remarkable young leaders will bridge critical gaps between federal policymakers and students, ensuring that education reforms actually address what today’s learners need to thrive in tomorrow’s world.” 

The election addresses a persistent democratic deficit in American education policy. A Common Sense Media survey found that 73% of students aged 12–17 believe elected officials fail to understand or represent their needs. Even more concerning, NASSP research indicates only 13% of students feel they have meaningful representation at the federal level. 

“For too long we’ve seen the effects of adults alone making decisions about our education. If students we don’t take initiative to change this, who will?” said David Arowolo, incoming President of the National Student Council and sophomore at Eastern Technical High School in Baltimore, MD. “Our National Student Council is ready to convert student frustrations into actionable solutions that will revolutionize how schools support our mental health and academic growth. But we need your voices, too, because this movement only works when thousands of us speak up together to drive the changes we know we deserve.” 

The 2025–26 National Student Council Officers are: 

  • President David Arowolo, a sophomore at Eastern Technical High School in Baltimore, MD 
  • Vice President of Leadership Development Molly Kaldahl, a sophomore at Millard South High School in Omaha, NE 
  • Vice President of Advocacy Jake Munzaa, a junior at Vista Murrieta High School in Murrieta, CA 
  • Vice President of Membership Mardi Roques, a junior at St John’s High School in San Juan, PR 
  • Vice President of Communications Chris Tao, a sophomore at Lincoln High School in Sioux Falls, SD 
  • Vice President of Service Shenaya Verma, a junior at North Reading High School in North Reading, MA 
  • Secretary Audrey Schroeder, a junior at Pennsylvania Leadership Charter School in West Chester, PA 
  • Junior Vice President of Membership Ru Challagundla, a seventh grader at Marvin Ridge Middle School in Waxhaw, NC 
  • Junior Vice President of Leadership Development Weston Constantineau, a seventh grader at Marvin Ridge Middle School in Waxhaw, NC 
  • Junior Vice President of Advocacy Saanvi Khara, a sixth grader at St Joseph School – Danville in Danville, PA 
  • Junior Vice President of Communications Emalyn Klosterman, a seventh grader at Mexia Junior High in Mexia, TX 
  • Junior Vice President of Service Rylee Wilson, a seventh grader at Mexia Junior High School in Mexia, TX 

Building on the work of last year’s inaugural council, the NSC’s term begins July 1, when these student leaders will identify urgent challenges facing America’s students and develop targeted advocacy strategies to implement meaningful solutions.  

NSC member campaign videos are here and their position descriptions are here. 

Photos and interviews are available upon request.