« Back to all news and announcements
Chicago Board of Education Selects Robert White of Chicago High School for Agricultural Sciences as Its 2026-27 Honorary Student Board Member
August 25, 2026
New student leader will represent peers, amplify student voice
The Chicago Board of Education (Board) has named Robert White, a junior at Chicago High School for Agricultural Sciences (CHSAS), as its 2026-27 Honorary Student Board Member (HSBM), succeeding Destiny Singleton, a recent Ogden International High School graduate.
Robert has demonstrated a strong commitment to service and leadership. An active participant in the National Future Farmers of America (FFA) Organization, he previously served as his school's chapter chaplain, will serve this year as chapter sentinel, and currently serves as vice president of Illinois Association FFA Section 8. Robert is also involved with 4-H youth programs through
Board President Sean B. Harden meets with 2026-27 Honorary Student Board Member Robert White and his mother, Roberta White, during a meet-and-greet with Board Office staff.
the University of Illinois Extension and serves as secretary of his school's Junior Minorities in Agriculture, Natural Resources and Related Sciences (Jr. MANRRS) chapter. Additionally, he mentors youth with the Black Boy Literacy Campaign.
Robert was selected from a competitive pool of 105 rising juniors and seniors across 46 Chicago Public Schools (CPS). He will begin his tenure at the Sept. 24 Board Meeting and represent the CPS student body throughout the 2026-27 school year.
Every year, the Board’s HSBM is awarded a $1,000 scholarship to support future enrollment at a two- or four-year college or university.
“Student voice has to be more than something we acknowledge—it has to help shape the decisions we make,” said Board President Sean B. Harden. “Our students bring perspectives and experiences that no one else can bring to the table, and we are better off when we listen and take action with their input. We’re excited to welcome Robert to the Board and look forward to working alongside him to ensure students have a meaningful voice in the decisions that impact their education and their future.”
As the representative of the entire CPS student body, the HSBM participates in the Board’s Student Voice Roundtable Initiative, which provides a platform for students across the District to engage with CPS leadership, Board members, and city leaders on various topics that matter to students. The HSBM also serves as a representative at select districtwide events.
“I am excited and humbled to represent my peers on this new venture,” said Robert. “Every student and school has a unique story, and I look forward to ensuring student perspectives are heard on the issues that matter most to them. I'm deeply thankful for this meaningful opportunity. ”
The Board Office works in collaboration with the CPS Department of Student Voice and Engagement to identify opportunities for the HSBM. This partnership helps connect the Board with CPS students and leadership, ensuring student perspectives inform decision-making while elevating student experiences and voices.
About the Board
The Chicago Board of Education (Board), founded in 1840, is responsible for the governance, organizational, and financial oversight of Chicago Public Schools, one of the largest school districts in the United States. The Board establishes policies, standards, goals, and initiatives to ensure accountability and provide a high quality, world-class education for the 21st century that prepares our students for success in college, work, and life. Visit CPSBOE.org/about/bios to read Board Members’ bios.
# # #
