Amy Brockner, Interim Superintendent of Schools, presented the Pine Bush Central School District Board of Education with information about a new state law requiring all districts and BOCES to appoint at least one high school student as a member of the Board of Education. Brockner, in collaboration with Pine Bush High School Principal Aaron Hopmayer, is tasked with creating and adopting a policy for student selection by July 1, 2025.

Ex-officio (meaning “from the office” – as in, the “office” of student will always be a part of the body) student members will sit with the board, participate in public meetings, and attend hearings. Students will campaign for the office, with high school students voting for the candidate they feel is best suited for the role. One of the challenges discussed was ensuring that all students have an equal opportunity to be selected. However, the ex-officio member will not have voting rights, will not attend executive sessions, and will not be compensated for their participation.

The current plan is to elect one senior to serve as the student representative, with a junior acting as an alternate. The senior will be required to attend at least one of two board meetings each month, while the junior will attend meetings to learn the process. To be eligible, students must be in good academic standing, demonstrate civic engagement and leadership, and maintain good attendance. If a student is failing two or more classes, they will not be eligible to apply. The district will follow similar eligibility requirements as those for school sports.

“I think you really want someone who will campaign and bring their unique perspectives to the table,” Hopmayer said. “The reality is simple: the board values service, and this position requires a significant commitment of time and effort. We want a student who will show the same level of respect for this position as we do for the work we do on the board.”