Chattooga High School junior Beydaly Gabriel-Diaz has achieved a significant honor, being named one of just 79 students statewide selected for the highly competitive 2025-2026 Georgia School Superintendent’s Student Advisory Council. Gabriel-Diaz was chosen from an impressive pool of 1,235 applicants, highlighting her exceptional dedication and leadership.

The Chattooga County School System proudly announced and celebrated Beydaly’s selection, recognizing the rigorous process involved in joining the council.

Dr. Michelle Helie, Superintendent of Chattooga County Schools, expressed immense pride in Beydaly’s accomplishment. “This is an amazing accomplishment and a testament to Beydaly’s dedication and excellence across so many areas of student life,” Dr. Helie stated. “We are honored to have her attend Chattooga County Schools, and I am confident she will make valuable contributions to the council’s important work.”

The Georgia School Superintendent’s Student Advisory Council provides a crucial platform for student voice in state-level education policy. Throughout the year, council members will engage directly with State School Superintendent Richard Woods, offering feedback on state policies, discussing key education issues, and serving as ambassadors for their respective schools and communities. Beyond policy discussions, members also participate in service projects designed to build leadership skills, foster civic responsibility, and create a positive impact in their local communities.

State School Superintendent Richard Woods underscored the importance of student input in shaping the future of education. “As State School Superintendent, my role is to listen to our students and communities, gather multiple perspectives, and determine how public-school education can move forward in our state with the ultimate goal of preparing all students for life,” Superintendent Woods said. “The more we learn from each other, the stronger we are.”

Chattooga County Schools proudly celebrates Beydaly Gabriel-Diaz’s remarkable achievement and looks forward to supporting her as she represents the district with distinction on this influential statewide council, bringing a vital student perspective to critical educational discussions.