Coronado High School Student Makes History on Education Board

Engaged students contributing to educational policy discussions

News Summary

Vincent Russo, a junior at Coronado High School, has become the first student board member from CHS to serve on the San Diego County Office of Education. After moving from Maryland, he embraced his new role, aiming to advocate for student issues, including the financial burden of AP exams. Russo’s appointment not only signifies a personal achievement but also highlights the importance of student voices in educational governance.

Coronado, California – Vincent Russo, a junior at Coronado High School (CHS), has made history by becoming the first CHS student to serve as a student board member for the San Diego County Office of Education (SDCOE) for the upcoming 2025-26 school year. This prestigious position enables him to engage in decision-making processes that influence education in San Diego County.

Russo relocated to Coronado from Crofton, Maryland in July 2024, following his father’s assignment at Naval Base North Island. The transition was initially challenging as he adapted to a new environment while living temporarily in an Airbnb with his family. It was during this period that Russo discovered his passion for his new hometown by participating in summer cross country practices, an experience that helped him forge friendships and acclimate to the school community.

During his first semester at CHS, Russo came across an opportunity to apply for the student board member position while reviewing the weekly announcements from the principal. Intrigued by the opportunity, he seized the chance to step out of his comfort zone, viewing the role as a significant challenge. The selection process for the student board members is notably rigorous, with only five candidates chosen from a large pool of applicants across San Diego County.

After submitting his application, Russo received an acceptance email from SDCOE. The news filled him with joy, as he felt ecstatic about being appointed to the role. He has since attended an SDCOE board meeting in April, where he met fellow board members and other student representatives for the first time. As a full member of the board, Russo is entrusted with participating in meetings, questioning witnesses, casting votes, and making motions during two months of the year.

In this newly appointed role, Russo aims to become a confident board member while contributing innovative ideas that foster tangible change in the educational landscape. A particular focus of his is to raise awareness regarding the challenges faced by students at CHS. One of the specific issues he is passionate about addressing is the cost of Advanced Placement (AP) exams. Currently, students at CHS are required to bear the financial burden for each exam, a contrast to his previous school, where five exams were covered. Russo believes that this policy needs reevaluation to support students more effectively.

The experience of transitioning from a different state to representing CHS at a high-level educational position has been surreal for Russo. He attributes much of his successful adjustment to the supportive network of family and the welcoming community in Coronado, which has played a pivotal role in easing his transition. This support has motivated him to seek out relationships and learn valuable insights that will be beneficial for his future career aspirations in finance or business.

As the first student board member from Coronado High School, Russo’s appointment not only marks a significant milestone for him personally but also for the CHS community, highlighting the potential of student voices in educational governance. His commitment to advocate for student issues underscores the importance of involving a younger perspective in education policy, as he strives to make a positive impact in his role and contribute meaningfully to the broader educational community.