The Brentwood Union Free School District Board of Education opened its Dec. 19 meeting with a special recognition of Youth & Government students and the advisers who guided them.

Superintendent Wanda and principals described the program's growth from a small South Middle School pilot to a larger district effort that now includes a high school chapter. Dr. Escobar and Miss Barber recounted how student leadership (notably Olivia Harris) helped expand participation and take student-authored bills to Albany, where Brentwood students competed against peers statewide.

The board read a list of advisors and principals and presented certificates to students including Alex Mendoza (outstanding debater), Dana Alvarez (outstanding delegate) and others named in the packet. Student liaisons Farrah Alsafarani and Samuel Hassel followed with a brief report highlighting the district tree lighting, Newsday athletic recognitions for individual students, undefeated varsity performances and recent concerts and spirit-week activities.

Board members congratulated students and staff and reminded the community of upcoming dates for budget workshops and the January regular meeting.