May 15, 2013                                                                                       

Grimsby Area Student Has Minister’s Ear

Central Public School student Lucas Penny is certainly making some friends in high places. Over the course of the next year, the Minister of Education will be seeking his advice on a range of issues affecting students, schools and school boards in Ontario. Lucas will be providing that feedback as part of the 2013-2014 Minister’s Student Advisory Council (MSAC). The council is a diverse group of 60 students from various school boards and regions across the province. 

Having been involved with his school’s student council for quite some time, Lucas said he was very happy to be chosen as part of the Minister’s council. “I really want to bring a unique voice to the group,” he said. “I think there are students who haven’t yet been heard so I hope to represent their views and concerns.”

The Advisory Council held its first meeting on May 6, which Lucas felt was very productive. “This is a really exciting opportunity. Our group spent time talking about our ideas to improve schools and education. I think a lot of great suggestions came forward,” said Lucas.

Lucas is currently finishing his Grade 8 year at Central Public School. After graduating, he will attend Grimsby Secondary in the fall. In high school, Lucas said he’s looking forward to getting involved with a variety of sports, including soccer and track and field. He also has a keen interest in science and plans to participating in the regional science fair in the spring.

“Lucas was an excellent choice for the Minister’s advisory council,” said Shellee Niznik, Central Public School principal. “I think students across Ontario will be well served by his leadership at the council.”