Pelham board swears in first student ex officio member

The Pelham Union Free School District Board of Education on Sept. 3 swore in Emerson Jerabeck as the district’s first student ex officio board member.

Jerabeck, a student at the high school who will serve a two‑year term, took the oath of office administered by Marcy (district clerk), then addressed the board briefly about her background and willingness to represent student perspectives.

Superintendent Dr. Champ told the board and audience that state regulation now encourages boards to include at least one student member and clarified the limits of the role: “they don't have a voting role, or they can't come to executive session either,” she said, adding that student voice is important to bring the perspective of high‑school students to board discussions.

Board members said the district and board teams will allow Jerabeck to attend most meetings through the report section and beyond as her schedule permits; the board noted that the policy they have identifies two student positions (a junior and a senior), and that they remain open to recruiting a second student.

Jerabeck introduced herself to the board, saying she has been in Pelham schools since first grade, works summers at a maritime camp, volunteers in the community and is “excited to be involved in this role.”

Board members encouraged Jerabeck to view the board as a place of mutual learning and said they expect the student member to bring reports from the high school during the meeting’s report section in the future.

The board did not take a formal vote on the swearing‑in; the swearing was administered as a ceremonial and procedural step consistent with district policy and new state guidance.