James Obasiolu Elected 2024-2025 Student Member of the Board

May 2nd, 2024

Atholton High School (AHS) junior James Obasiolu was elected Student Member of the Board of Education (SMOB) for the 2024-2025 school year. The election, open to all middle and high school students, was conducted by the Howard County Association of Student Councils (HCASC) on May 1.

Obasiolu’s campaign focused on several issues, including promoting diversity, equity and inclusion; student mental health; and improved communication and engagement with students.

In addition to being an executive officer in HCPSS’ JROTC program and serving as AHS’ representative to the Board of Education, Obasiolu serves as the vice president of HCASC. He plays the cello and is a member of the Baltimore Symphony Youth Orchestras (BSYO) and Carnegie Hall’s National Youth Orchestras.

In his acceptance speech, Obasiolu thanked his campaign team, friends, family, and his teachers for supporting him. He also commended his opponent, Wilde Lake High School junior Antonio Clay-Hard, on his campaign.

“I’m honored to have worked alongside you and have called you a fellow advocate, speaker, and, most importantly, a dear friend. You have always had the best interests of our HCPSS students in mind, and I can’t wait to see the waves you make,” Obasiolu said of Clay-Hardy.

In his concession speech, Clay-Hardy thanked Obasiolu for his kindness and professionalism during the campaign. Clay-Hardy also expressed his appreciation for HCASC’s Election Coordinating Committee, calling their work “incredibly vital and important.”

Obasiolu and Clay-Hardy were the final candidates chosen at the HCASC Convention in March.

HCASC student leaders facilitated and managed the SMOB campaign and election with guidance from the HCASC advisor and HCPSS central office staff. The SMOB election process aims to empower students in developing skills necessary to be engaged and informed citizens.