State Superintendent of Schools Michele L. Blatt announced in a news release that the selection of the inaugural Super STARS (Students Taking Action for Readiness and Success) Council took place during the August meeting of the West Virginia Board of Education (WVBE). This new statewide student advisory group is designed to elevate student voice among education leaders and strengthen engagement in public education across West Virginia.

The council, composed of 15 students in Grades 6-12, represents regions throughout the state. Students were selected through a competitive process that included an application, administrator recommendation and video submission addressing key issues facing West Virginia schools.

“We must take student involvement seriously, and not only listen to them, but also address their concerns and recommendations. This will lead to stronger student engagement and will strengthen our system as a whole,” Superintendent Blatt said.

Tyler Consolidated Middle School was honored with Logan West being named to the council. Logan West is an eighth grader at Tyler Consolidated Middle School. He enjoys sports, including baseball, soccer, and cross-country, as well as academics and competitions, such as the math field day and national Junior Honor Society Inductee. He credits his loving family and supportive teachers for helping him pursue his interests and achievements.

Others named to the council were: Amber Arora – Cabell Midland HS; Rhaina Botticher – Berkeley Springs HS; Alexander Dennison – Braxton County HS; Hannelore Devine – North Marion HS; Natalie Grace Farmer – Pikeview MS; Juliann Gallaher – Clay County HS; Jake Gregg – Spring Valley HS; Anthony Hall Cameron HS; Ross Pownell Pendleton County MS; Lilliana Robinson – Capital HS; Naim Smith – Keyser HS; Kailyn Williams – Richwood HS; Hydee Wykle – Greenbrier East HS; and Angela Yao – Morgantown HS

“I am grateful that so many students submitted applications and for those who will serve in this charge, providing a unique service to me, my team and the education community.”

Council members will participate in four meetings during the 2026-2027 school year, and Superintendent Blatt will host regional education meetings throughout the year.

For more information about the Super STARS Council, visit the West Virginia Department of Education (WVDE) website.