Congratulations to Walt Whitman High School Senior Miles Berman, who is serving as the ex-officio student member of the South Huntington Board of Education for the 2026-2027 school year, representing the voice of students across the district. 

Berman is South Huntington’s sixth ex-officio student board member since district voters established the position in 2021. At that time, New York State required that a student board member seat be authorized by a referendum put before voters. Now, under a New York State law that went into effect last year, all public high school districts outside of New York City must include a student representative. Although these ex-officio representatives are non-voting members, supporters say the position gives students a direct voice in decisions impacting their education while promoting civic engagement. 

Miles’ interest in the role began when he was in eighth grade after learning about it from other students who had held the position. As he got more involved in student government, honor societies, and school committees, he realized he wanted to take on a larger role. “Around late sophomore into junior year, as my leadership opportunities ramped up, I found myself getting more involved as a student leader in both Whitman and in the community. Sitting in on committees like the Portrait of a Graduate really solidified it for me. I love having my voice heard at the table and representing those who aren't there. Learning what administrators were implementing and sharing that with teachers, students, and parents was eye-opening,” said Miles.

Selected after a competitive interview process with district administrators and board members, Miles describes the achievement as both an incredible honor and a significant commitment. "It came with excitement, but also that sense of responsibility... advocating for the students and making sure their voices are heard," he said.

Whitman Principal Dr. John Murphy was part of the selection process and said Miles’ connection across different student groups makes him a great choice for ex-officio. “He's diverse. He's an athlete, an intellect enrolled in many AP and advanced-level courses, and a member of DECA and Virtual Enterprise. He really has his hand in a little bit of everything within the school building connecting him with so many different types of students. He is able to learn what they’re thinking and feeling, and can communicate that to us about what we're doing here in the high school. Miles has always been a student who focuses on civic engagement and giving back to his community,” said Dr. Murphy.

When he isn't attending school board meetings, Miles has a full course of extracurricular activities in addition to his classes. He serves as co-president of DECA (an international student business and leadership organization), secretary of the National Business Honor Society, treasurer of Model UN, Chief Marketing Officer in Virtual Enterprise (VE), and a member of the National Honor Society, Social Studies Honor Society, VE Mentorship Club, and Natural Helpers. Outside of school, he holds a regional leadership role in BBYO, a Jewish youth organization, and recently helped organize a fundraiser that raised $58,000 for the American Transplant Foundation.

Miles also finds time to play for two Whitman sports teams. He is a 5th-year varsity golfer, and a 3rd-year varsity tennis player. 

Looking ahead to post-graduation, Miles hopes to major in economics and pursue a career in the business world. His dream schools are the University of Virginia, the University of Florida, and the University of South Carolina.

With the school year in full swing, Miles has a simple message for his fellow students across all grades: don't be afraid to reach out. He hopes they will feel comfortable approaching him with their thoughts, ideas, and concerns so he can bring their perspective directly to district leaders.

“Whether it's something big or small, anything that’s on your mind, feel comfortable coming up to me in the hallway or send me a text or an email. Let me know so I can bring it up to the Board,” said Miles.

We wish Miles the best of luck this school year in this important role!