For the second consecutive year, Mound Westonka High School senior Aleksandr Barnes is representing his school as a member of the Student Advisory and Leadership Team (SALT) for the Minnesota State High School League. As one of 17 SALT members, Barnes has played a role in planning/promoting state tournaments and leadership conferences, as well as creating educational materials, over the past two school years.

SALT was created in 2022-23 with the primary goals of including student voices in MSHSL programming decisions and building students’ leadership skills. This student team, which was selected thanks to the help of activities directors and staff of member schools, provides input directly to MSHSL staff and the board of directors.

SALT members communicate the needs and challenges that face today’s student participants, as well as help identify best practices. Selected students have the opportunity to develop leadership skills with other team members, and inspire thoughtful, student-led action that supports the purpose and desired outcomes of the team. SALT members attend in-person and virtual meetings and assume and expand leadership roles and responsibilities in their school and community.