Valdosta High School student Malia Green has been selected to serve on State School Superintendent Richard Woods’ 2026–2027 Student Advisory Council, continuing a notable tradition of representation for the local high school. Her selection provides a direct voice for Valdosta students at the state level on matters impacting public education across Georgia.
Green was chosen as one of just 85 students from a competitive field of more than 1,400 applicants statewide, according to information released Monday, October 19, 2026. This opportunity allows her to represent her peers and contribute valuable student perspectives on critical issues affecting the state's public schools. The council's work aims to bring student experiences and ideas to the Georgia Department of Education, directly informing decisions that shape educational policy and practice throughout Georgia.
This marks an impressive milestone for Valdosta High School, as Green's selection is the fourth consecutive year a student from the school has earned a seat on the prestigious council. The consistent presence of Valdosta High students on this state-level body highlights the school's commitment to fostering leadership among its student body.
Dr. Johnnie Marshall, principal of Valdosta High School, expressed significant pride in Green’s achievement and the school's ongoing recognition. Dr. Marshall stated the school is proud of Malia for representing Valdosta High School and students across Georgia. He further indicated that a "Wildcat selected for four consecutive years speaks volumes" about student caliber. According to Dr. Marshall, Valdosta High students are not only succeeding academically but are also developing essential leadership skills, confidence, and character necessary to make a significant difference beyond the campus. He anticipates Green will be an outstanding representative of the Wildcat Nation.
The Student Advisory Council offers a unique platform for students to engage directly with State School Superintendent Richard Woods and the broader Georgia Department of Education. Through this engagement, council members provide crucial insights into their personal educational experiences and share ideas designed to help shape future decisions affecting public schools throughout Georgia. This direct line of communication ensures that student voices are integrated into the policy-making process at the highest levels of state education.
Valdosta City Schools Superintendent Dr. Craig D. Lockhart also highlighted the importance of student voices being represented in state-level discussions about education's future. Dr. Lockhart emphasized that the Valdosta City Schools' commitment to “Vision, Values and Victory” includes preparing students to lead, serve, and make meaningful contributions wherever their journeys take them. He described Green's selection as a "tremendous honor," not only for her and her family but for the entire school district. Dr. Lockhart further explained that four consecutive years of representation on this council is a "remarkable testament to the opportunities" provided to students. He affirmed the district’s pride that the voices of Valdosta City Schools students continue to be heard at the state level.
Through her service on the council, Green will have the valuable opportunity to collaborate with fellow student leaders from various parts of Georgia. This collaboration will allow her to share her own experiences and advocate effectively for the needs and perspectives of students, bringing a local viewpoint to statewide educational discussions.
