The Woodhaven-Brownstown School District is taking a meaningful step forward in fostering civic engagement and student leadership by welcoming two dynamic student leaders to the Board of Education for the 2026–2027 school year: Mataeya Guerra and Lilly Diaz.
The Student Representative program provides a unique opportunity for high schoolers to actively participate in public education governance. Selected through a rigorous application and interview process, Guerra and Diaz will attend designated Board meetings, offer crucial insights from the student perspective, and serve as a vital communication bridge between their peers and district leadership.
“Our students are at the center of every decision we make, and creating opportunities for their voices to be heard is an important part of our commitment to continuous improvement,” said Supt. Matthew Salah. “We are excited to welcome our Student Representatives to the Board of Education and look forward to the perspectives, ideas, and experiences they will bring to our conversations.”
Both representatives bring impressive records of school involvement, academic excellence, and community leadership to their new roles.
A known leader within the halls of Woodhaven High School, Guerra serves as the National Honor Society (NHS) President, a WHS Tribe Leader, and a Student Council representative, all while participating in sideline and competitive cheer. Her motivation to step up as a student representative stems from her deep belief in equitable advocacy and a curiosity about the inner workings of district governance.
"This appointment to be BOE Student representative is such an amazing opportunity that I am grateful to be a part of,” said Guerra. “And I feel honored to be able to share parts of the student experience to the board and also learn more about what happens beyond the scenes. I am so excited to help amplify Woodhaven students' voices to our board and act as a representative for the body."
Diaz is a standout tri-sport athlete - competing in Varsity track, cross country, and basketball - who also dedicates her time to NHS and Link Crew, helping welcome and mentor incoming students. Driven by a desire to strengthen the school environment, she looks forward to sharpening her leadership skills while bringing fresh student ideas directly to board discussions.
“I’m really excited for this opportunity and grateful to be a student representative to the Board of Education,” Diaz said. “I’m looking forward to sharing the student perspective and being able to help make sure students' voices are heard.”
By embedding student voices into official discussions, the WBSD Board of Education reinforces its commitment to transparent, community-centered decision-making. With Mataeya and Lilly at the table, the district ensures that the future of its schools is guided by the very students who walk its hallways every day.
