Fossil Ridge senior delivers personal address at PSD Women’s History Month recognition

At the March 10 meeting the board adopted a resolution honoring Women’s History Month and invited a student speaker. Leslie Schmeiser, a Fossil Ridge High School teacher, introduced senior Addison Bean, who told the board she plans to attend Colorado State University to study biomedical sciences and spoke about role models who showed her she ‘‘doesn’t have to choose between ambition and love.’’

Bean invoked personal anecdotes and named educators and historic figures—from classroom teachers to Elizabeth Cady Stanton and Susan B. Anthony—while urging young women to shape their own identities. She praised her STEM teacher Leslie Schmeiser for demonstrating that women can pursue scientific careers and family life simultaneously.

Reaction in the boardroom was visibly emotional. Board members thanked Bean for representing the district and noted the speech’s resonance across the room. The board then adopted the resolution recognizing Women’s History Month by unanimous vote and took photographs with the honored guests.

Why it matters: Student voices at board meetings provide direct perspective on district‑wide recognition activities and on how curricular and extracurricular supports affect youth aspirations. The resolution and Bean’s speech drew attention to both district pride in student leadership and the role of classroom educators in student development.

What’s next: The board will host art and honors choir events in April and encouraged community attendance.