Behind-the-scenes view appealing for student trustee

The Rainbow District School Board's new student trustee, Liam Brunton, said he's looking forward to receiving a behind-the-scenes view of how the school system is run.

“I really appreciate the fact that the board has created this spot for a student trustee, because I feel it's very important for the student voice to be heard,” Brunton said, after he was sworn in to his post Aug. 26.

“I know you guys (trustees) all do an excellent job for our education system. I've grown up in it, I love it, but I just wanted a chance to be a part of how everything's run and see all the backroom things that most students don't get to witness.”

Brunton, who is entering Grade 12 at Lo-Ellen Park Secondary School this fall, was selected for the role by the board's student senate, made up of student leaders from all of Rainbow's high schools.

He'll be sitting in on all of the trustees' board meetings over the next year, and has the opportunity to give input on decisions they make.

Trustee Judy Hunda, one of the student senate's trustee mentors, said she's had the pleasure of getting to know Brunton over the past two years.

“I welcome you and tell you all that you will be a very welcome addition to this table,” she said.

Currently enrolled in Lo-Ellen's international baccalaureate program, Brunton aspires to earn a degree in international law from McGill University.

He is an active participant in NaNoWriMo (National Novel Writing Month) and is a member of the student council, Leo, Reach For The Top and debate clubs at Lo-Ellen.

Brunton was a member of the student senate for the 2013-2014 school year.

He's been a curler for the past 13 years. Last year, his competitive team participated in the 2014 Ontario Winter Games, where they placed sixth.