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She was chosen out of over 300 eligible students as the sole representative from St. Maximilian Kolbe CHS during the nominations for student trustee. She read her speech aloud to the judges along with 14 other students. After the deliberations were over, she was chosen as the board’s newest student trustee. She is now in the important position of representing over 56,000 students at the board table. She is Grade 11 student Kara Waites.
Kara Waites is now ready and eager to sit at the board table as one of York Catholic’s two student trustees, and start speaking on behalf of students. She applied to be a student trustee in order to further her leadership skills and contribute to our school communities.
“I really enjoy talking with students and hearing their thoughts and opinions,” said Kara. “I am looking forward to being a voice for them to create even more successful school communities.”
Through the encouragement of St. Max’s Vice-Principal Ms. Antunes and Principal Mr. Scuglia, Kara filled out an application and wrote a two-minute speech about why she would be a good choice for student trustee. She then presented her speech, alongside 14 other candidates, to the school’s York Secondary Catholic Presidents Council (YSCPC) in April.
“When I found out I was chosen, I was in complete shock,” said Kara. “Before even presenting my speech, I was convinced another candidate would win because I had gotten to know them and seen what amazing people they all truly are.”
Looking ahead, Kara is excited to start her position as student trustee, working alongside York Catholic’s other student trustee, Andre Rebeiz, a Grade 12 student at St. Brother Andre Catholic High School in Markham.
“I am passionate about equality and I hope to share my passion with all the students in our board,” said Kara. “I believe everyone should be treated with respect and celebrated, no matter their abilities, gender, religion, or sexual orientation. As unique individuals, we all have something to offer and can learn from each other.”
When not busy at the board table, Kara enjoys sports, and can be found playing basketball, volleyball and ultimate Frisbee on St. Maximilian Kolbe CHS’ sports teams. In the summertime, she also enjoys playing soccer and waterskiing at her cottage up north.
Kara sees her time as student trustee as one of personal growth and positive impact.
“I am honoured to have this position and am looking forward to representing the students of the York Catholic District School Board over the next two years,” said Kara. “I am excited to embark on this new journey to learn, grow and experience all this position has to offer.”