RIPON – Ruth Waters initially sought the office of Associated Student Body Activity Director at Ripon High.

Instead, the incoming junior was given a bigger responsibility as that of Ripon Unified’s student board member.

“This (position) will give me an opportunity to get more involved in the community,” said the 16-year-old daughter of Manteca Fire Chief Kirk Waters and his wife Shelly.

Ruth Waters, who was administered the oath of office by Trustee Donna Parks at last Monday’s school board meeting, replaced Brandon Petraitis.

Prior to that, Petraitis was honored by Superintendent Louise (Nan) Johnson for his services during the past year.

“He took on this challenge with honor, thoughtfulness and engaged in some of the discussions,” she said at the monthly session held at Ripon City Hall’s Council Chambers.

Waters is the third-ever student board member.

She, too, hit the ground running on her first day on the job of working alongside elected officials. For example, Waters, who was involved in both girls’ varsity basketball and track, took part in the discussion involving the Ripon Community Athletic Foundation’s presentation on the update of the Stouffer Field revitalization project.

She also provided a second to the motions involving the master plan for English Language Learners and the re-employments for July.

Waters is aware of the do’s and don’ts of her position, getting a briefing from Petraitis.

“I know there are certain matters in which I can’t vote on,” she said.

Waters was selected as the student board member last February.

“I do believe I’ll have to provide a summary on the meetings to report back to the ASB,” she said.