Junior Priya Nischal advocates for Seaside High School on the MPUSD Board of Education
Priya Nischal
Junior, Seaside High School
Seaside High School junior Priya Nischal is bringing a fresh perspective to the Monterey Peninsula Unified School District Board of Education. As the student board member, Priya plays a pivotal role in representing the voices of her peers, ensuring that their concerns and aspirations are heard by the district’s decision-makers.
Priya’s journey to the school board began with encouragement from her leadership teacher, Ms. Scorpiniti.
“She’s a really great teacher,” Priya explained. “She wanted me to participate because it could open doors for scholarships and provide an opportunity to share insights about Seaside High School with the board.”
Priya’s primary motivation, however, was to shine a light on the challenges and triumphs of Seaside High.
“Our school often gets overlooked, and I want others to know that we’re working hard and making progress,” said Nischal.
Growing up in Seaside, Priya attended Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. School of the Arts and Seaside Middle School. She credits her time at these schools with shaping her into a strong advocate.
Now a junior, Priya is making the most of her high school experience by engaging in a variety of activities, including digital media classes, AP courses, basketball, and leadership roles. Over the years, she has served as freshman treasurer, sophomore president, and now a junior class representative.
When asked about her experience at Seaside High, Priya shared, “It’s been challenging at times, but I love it here. The staff treat us like family, and it creates a welcoming environment where students feel supported.”
She highlighted the school’s unique culture of inclusivity, where cliques are less prominent, and students come together as one community.
“It doesn’t matter where you came from or what your hobbies are. Everyone is encouraged to be themselves,” Nischal said.
As a student board member, Priya is passionate about advocating for increased opportunities at Seaside High, particularly in the arts.
“We’ve lost some programs compared to other schools, and I want to bring those back,” she said. “Expanding art programs and creating a more welcoming environment would make a big difference.”
Priya’s future ambitions include attending a four-year university, with her sights set on UCLA, UC Santa Barbara, or UC Berkeley. While she’s interested in political science and law, she’s keeping an open mind as she explores other potential paths.
“I always think about the person I want to be in the future,” she shared. “That motivates me to stay productive and focused.”
Reflecting on her time at Seaside High, Priya encourages younger students to embrace the transition to high school with optimism.
“High school is a place where you can grow connections that benefit you in the future,” she said. “Even if it feels scary at first, believe in yourself and take the step to get involved.”
Through her role on the school board and her active participation at Seaside High, Priya Nischal exemplifies leadership, resilience, and a commitment to making her school and community a better place.