Meet our 2025-2026 student school board reps

Each year, student representatives from Spring Lake Park High School’s Student Council join the school board to share updates about student life and the SLP experience. This year, the board welcomed junior Mickey Tran and welcomed back senior Mia Swinarski. Together, they bring fresh perspectives, a strong student voice and plenty of Panther Pride to the board table.

Since the 1999–2000 school year, student representatives have played an important role in connecting the board with the everyday experiences of students. This long-standing tradition continues this year.

“Our school board really values hearing directly from students about their experiences,” says Board Chair Tony Easter. “The insights they share - from classes to activities and athletics - make the work we do to support students across Spring Lake Park Schools real and meaningful.”

Mickey Tran: A Voice for Students

Mickey has been part of Spring Lake Park Schools since preschool and is currently involved as the Public Relations Secretary for Student Council, an editor for the Yearbook Club, a member of the Speech team and a player on the Boys Volleyball team. He also takes on college-level coursework as a full-time student at Anoka-Ramsey Community College through the Postsecondary Enrollment Options program.

Outside of school, Mickey enjoys photography, graphic design and cooking. He says he stepped into the student representative role because he has always been proud to support the student body.

“I’ve been openly proud of our student body ever since elementary school and found that this would be one of the best ways to channel that energy,” says Mickey. “My hope is to make my fellow peers feel excited to be part of this community, this family.”

Already, Mickey says the experience has been rewarding. He’s learned how the district emphasizes personalized learning plans, supports student success and invests back into the community through programs and the Panther Foundation.

Looking ahead, Mickey plans to attend the University of Minnesota to study either education or engineering.

Mickey is proud to be a Panther because of the connected community.  

“In my thirteen years in this district, I’ve seen how we always have each other’s backs and continuously show our Panther Pride,” he says.

Mia Swinarski: Building on Experience

Mia is serving her second year on the board, bringing continuity and leadership to the role. She decided to return after a rewarding first year.

“Last year on the School Board, I had so much fun getting to know all of the representatives and seeing the behind-the-scenes work that goes into my high school experience,” says Mia. “The conversations and issues the board tackles are so interesting, and I love learning about their work.”

This year, Mia looks forward to hearing more about how SLP is making learning engaging and accessible to all students. She especially enjoys updates from the elementary schools, saying the photos always show students having so much fun.

Mia is also deeply involved in life at Spring Lake Park High School. She plays tennis in the fall, competes in Knowledge Bowl in the winter, and serves as President of the Student Council. Outside of school, she volunteers weekly at her church, helping with a weekly community food giveaway.

As a senior, Mia is balancing a busy schedule with college applications and looking ahead to new adventures. She plans to attend a four-year university - likely out of state - after graduation.

Through it all, she says what makes her Panther Proud is all of the opportunities to get involved.

“From our clubs and sports teams to school events like the homecoming game and pep fest, there is a place here for everyone,” she says.

Two Leaders, One Goal
Both Mickey and Mia share a deep appreciation for Spring Lake Park Schools and a passion for representing their peers. Their leadership ensures that the student voice is heard in important conversations shaping the district.

With their energy, insight and Panther Pride, Mickey and Mia are ready to make a difference.

I love to get to know everyone's faces and names so I hope the joy and energy I bring to the board and world can be spread onto others. Mickey Tran, junior