HAMPTON -- Most students do not even know what goes on at a school board meeting, but one group of active teens not only knows what goes on; they want to be a part of the process.

The teens are a part of Uth Act a group with Alternatives, Inc., a non-profit organization that helps teens improve their communities and be a part of the process.

The goal is to show students they can take part in the decision-making that affects them. So, the teens are putting that idea into action with their proposal to the School Board that, if passes, would create a youth advisor position on the board.

"Getting young people in Hampton involved is extremely important," said Eddie Leford, Uth Act junior. "As young people, we are able to look at things in a different perspective and bring different ideas and ways of solving problems to a situation."

The teens have been working on the proposal for four years, and while in their plan the student representative would not have voting power, the students hope just being an active part of the discussions will help the Board better understand the students' needs and concerns.

Also, they hope to create a tradition of team work for years to come.

"Hopefully, we will get this," said Ikedra King, Uth Act member. "No, I know we will get this approved, and the application process will continue and we'll have seniors and juniors apply for the school representative and it will continue for as long as Hampton is here."

The students plan to present their proposal to the School Board Wednesday night. If it passes, they hope to have a student representative selected and in place by next school year.

Some local school districts, including Poquoson, Isle of Wight and Newport News, already have student school board representatives.