Albert Lea teachers may soon have a representative during school board meetings.

The Albert Lea school board on Monday discussed adding a teacher representative to provide input on matters pertaining to students and staff.

The role of the teacher would be similar to student school board members Justine Nelson and Kailey Christensen, who both provide reports to the board.

Board members expressed support for the proposal.

Neal Skaar said a licensed staff member would help board members relate to issues the district is facing, and Dave Klatt said he supported hearing from a licensed staff member during meetings.

Nelson said she supports having a teacher representative at board meetings.

“I think it validates that you are an important part of the community,” she said. “It’s really silly to have a student and have administration constantly talking, but the teachers, who are a key part of this, are not. I think it’s wonderful.”

Having representatives from other bargaining units attend pertinent meetings was also discussed by the board.

A decision is expected at the board’s next meeting on March 20.

“I think it’s a good thing,” said board member Mark Ciota. “We get the teacher voice … I like the idea.”