Walled Lake Central’s Zahraa Khanafer selected for Michigan’s Department of Education Student Advisory Council

Walled Lake Central senior Zahraa Khanafer has been selected as member of the State of Michigan’s Department of Education (MDE) Student Advisory Council for the 2024-25 academic year.

“Being chosen to join the MDE Student Advisory Council is both an honor and a profound responsibility,” said Khanafer. “It signifies trust in my ability to contribute meaningfully to discussions on race, racism, and the amplification of student voices.”

Khanafer will join other students from across Michigan to provide State Superintendent Dr. Michael Rice and other department leaders perspective and feedback on new and ongoing MDE initiatives and efforts. She’ll participate in monthly meetings, as well as have the opportunity to engage in council workgroups.

“I hope to learn from the diverse perspectives and experiences of my fellow board members, and to collaboratively develop strategies that foster a more inclusive and equitable educational environment,” said Khanafer. “Together as a council, we can work to ensure that every student feels heard, valued, and empowered in their school experiences."

In 2023-24, the MDE Student Advisory Council’s work included the creation of the Safe Space Resource: A Guide for Michigan Educators, which focuses on the issues of race and racism and the amplification of student voice in relation to their school experiences.