Gov. Thomas Johnson High sophomore Thora Mintz was elected as the next Student Member of the Board of Education of Frederick County (SMOB).
Frederick County Public Schools middle and high school students participated in an online voting process to elect the 2026-2027 SMOB. The election was finalized when delegates from each school cast their votes during the General Assembly of the Frederick County Association of Student Councils on February 5.
Mintz was one of two candidates for Student Member of the Board. During her campaign, she pledged to focus on strong communication between students and leadership, ensuring that student voices from all grade levels are heard and represented. She is committed to fostering safe, supportive environments that promote belonging, engagement, and academic success. Mintz also prioritizes leadership through effective time management and thorough preparation on all issues for FCPS students.
At Gov. Thomas Johnson High, Mintz is a member of the mock trial team, varsity girls field hockey team, and the National Math Honor Society.
The role of the Student Member of the Board is to bring a student viewpoint on educational issues to the Board of Education. SMOBs are expected to respect the diversity of students’ points of view, improve communication between the student body, staff and Board members, and engage students about board policies and decisions.
Mintz’s one-year term officially begins July 1, 2026. Until then, she will shadow Alexander Thomas, a Linganore High student who is currently serving as Student Member of the Board.