Student candidate outlines selection process for student ex‑officio board seat; board praises outgoing member

A Pleasantville high school student described the selection process for the student ex‑officio board seat during the June 2 board meeting and answered questions about candidate outreach.

Julian, a rising senior and current ex‑officio participant, said a Microsoft Form will be sent during homeroom to students in grades 9–11 so they can vote among three candidates: Julian, Brady Cashman and Jamie Harris. Mr. Palumbo will distribute candidate bios via StudentSquare; bios include answers to questions about the candidate’s goals and leadership experience. Julian said two candidates will be selected to serve and that there is not an extensive campaigning process beyond the planned outreach during lunch and homeroom.

Board members offered public praise for Julian’s work as the district’s first student ex‑officio, saying his questions improved board discussion and brought useful perspective during meetings. Trustees encouraged formalizing more student input into the district’s strategic plan and capital project design.

Why it matters: The student ex‑officio role is a channel for student voice in board deliberations. The district intends to expand and formalize student participation while maintaining clear outreach and selection steps.

Notable quotes and details: Julian described the candidate outreach and the three candidate bios that were distributed; the board noted that two candidates will be selected and that the selected student will receive a MacBook as part of the position’s support resources.