SAN DIEGO, CA - Poway Unified School District has appointed Kiana Lee (Westview High School) to serve as the 2026–2027 Student Board Member on the PUSD Board of Education.
Lee was selected following a competitive application and interview process and brings a strong record of academic achievement, student leadership, community service, and advocacy for accessibility and inclusion.
“Kiana really stood out through her application, her life experiences, and her interview,” said Superintendent Churchill. “Her passion and dedication for serving students and improving how we meet students’ needs is inspiring.”
In her application, Lee said she hopes to strengthen communication between students and district leadership by bringing forward student ideas, concerns, and experiences. As a deaf student who is proficient in English, Chinese, and American Sign Language, Lee brings a meaningful perspective on accessibility, inclusion, communication access, and self-advocacy.
At Westview, Lee has pursued a rigorous academic pathway and is involved in a broad range of leadership and extracurricular activities. Her academic and service work extends beyond campus. Lee serves as a research intern where she supports research related to brain development and cognitive processes of Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing individuals.
Lee is the founder of Sign Journey, a nonprofit organization dedicated to building community connections through American Sign Language. Since 2021, she has also contributed more than 700 volunteer hours with YAPA Kids American Sign Language, where she now serves as ASL Program Manager.
Her honors include the Westview High School Student Staff Recognition Award, YAPA Kids Presidential Volunteer Service Award, selection to the 2026 Disney Dreamers Academy, and selection as Westview High School’s 2026 Girls State Delegate. She is also an accomplished cellist who earned Honorable Mention in the American Virtuoso International Music Competition and the opportunity to perform at Carnegie Hall in late 2026.
As Student Board Member, Lee will represent the student perspective during Board of Education meetings and help strengthen communication between students and district leaders.