The Board of Education has added two seats to the table during its monthly meetings. Jr.-Sr. High School juniors Sarah Benson and Payton Friede now serve as the district’s first ex-officio student members of the board of education for the 2025-2026 school year.
Board of Education President Jeffrey Goldhammer welcomed the students during the Aug. 27 meeting. “In this role, you join us in our shared commitment to supporting the students, families and community of our district,” Mr. Goldhammer said. “While this position is non-voting, your voice and perspective represent the heart of our mission, which is to educate, empower and inspire every learner.”
A New York State law effective July 1, 2025 requires school districts to appoint at least one non-voting student to their board of education to serve in an advisory capacity. The ex-officio student board member can participate in public meetings but are excluded from executive sessions. Sarah and Payton were selected by the board and superintendent of schools Joseph A. Steimel through an interview process.
Sarah is an Advanced Placement Scholar and a member of the National Honor Society and World Language and Tri-M honor societies. She is also a varsity athlete on the bowling and tennis team and is involved in the natural Helpers and robotics clubs. Off campus, Sarah volunteers with the Shirley Community Ambulance.
Payton is an AP Scholar with Honors and is also a varsity athlete on the girls volleyball team. Additionally, she is a member of the National Honor Society and the World Language Honor Society. With aspirations of becoming a doctor, Payton volunteers at Stony Brook University Hospital.