Four students representing the Northwest Georgia RESA region have been selected to serve on State School Superintendent Richard Woods’ 2026-2027 Student Advisory Council, giving students from the region a direct voice in discussions about public education in Georgia.

The Georgia Department of Education announced the new council as part of its effort to gather student perspectives on classroom experiences, school policies and issues affecting students across the state.

Northwest Georgia students selected are Elijah Ely, a senior at Model High School in Floyd County; Lillian Elliott, a junior at Cartersville High School; Violet Jolly, a junior at East Paulding High School; and Yash Garg, a senior at Rome High School.

The Student Advisory Council is made up of students from across Georgia who will meet with Superintendent Woods and Department of Education staff during the school year. Members will be asked to share their experiences, concerns and ideas about what is working well in schools and where they believe improvements could be made.

According to the Georgia Department of Education, the council is intended to give students an opportunity to speak directly with state education leaders and provide input on matters that affect them in the classroom and in their school communities.

Council members may discuss topics such as academics, school climate, student engagement, career preparation, technology, mental health resources and other issues that shape the day-to-day experience of Georgia students.

The statewide group includes students in grades 10 through 12 from public school systems, state charter schools, private schools and homeschool programs, providing a broad range of perspectives from different parts of Georgia.

The four Northwest Georgia selections represent schools in Floyd, Bartow and Paulding counties and will take part in the council’s meetings and activities during the 2026-2027 school year.