Meet this year’s members of the TI-12 (The Impact 12), a student advisory group made up of three seniors from each high school.
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| Berkner High School Alma Zakaria Ayah Alinur Foster Thames | Pearce High School Nicole Mijares Canary Vincent Costilla Tannah Levin |
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| Lake Highlands High School Khali Thornton Peri Howell Ben Bonner | Richardson High School Zoe Johnson Yanira Salguero Sam Mitchell |
The student advisory committee has been around for more than 20 years. Every school year, outstanding student leaders are nominated by staff. Three students at each school are chosen by their principal to represent the student body. TI-12 representatives come from a variety of backgrounds, are involved in various campus activities, and have unique experiences.
The student leaders meet monthly with district leaders to learn about how the district works and share student perspectives. They also share ideas on how the district can better serve students, staff, and parents through its various programs and offerings.
When the group comes together each month, TI-12 hears from different district leaders and departments and engages in various activities.
During their November meeting, they experienced a behind-the-scenes look with the district Technology department during an immersive hacker simulation and facility tour. The visit gave students an exclusive look at how RISD keeps the devices and technology in the district running smoothly. From the help desk (think Apple Genius Bar!) to the server room that powers and backs up data, they learned how technology empowers connectivity at campuses and how cybersecurity measures and AI-powered cameras keep schools safe and secure.
The afternoon wrapped up with the students engaging with RISD technology leaders in an open conversation about technology use in the district. TI-12 students became honorary Technology Advisory Committee members and were asked to provide honest feedback on whether they felt prepared for their future with the technology skills learned in school, the use of AI in school, and ways to minimize cheating, and their preferences on district-provided devices.
They provided a unique student insight and gave important feedback to district leaders. Richardson ISD values the input of students, parents, and community members when planning for the future and encourages
