At its June 18 meeting, the Bethlehem Central Board of Education appointed BCHS juniors Claire Aliggayu and Rose Pastore to serve as student members of the Board in the 2025-26 school year.
New York State law requires all school districts to include at least one student representative on the Board of Education beginning in the 2025-26 school year.
The Board of Education establishes school district policies, oversees the development of the annual budget and represents community interests as they relate to school district operations. The new student Board members will represent the student body as ex officio members of the Board. They were selected for the positions as part of a formal application and interview process held earlier this year.
Claire Aliggayu
Claire Aliggayu will be a senior next year and is actively engaged in several high school clubs, including the National Coalition Building Institute (NCBI) program and the Elevating Student Voices Program. Claire serves as vice president of the BC Cinematography Club and as president of BCHS Peer Helpers. In addition to her leadership roles, Claire tutors peers in math and AP Biology.
“I really appreciate the opportunity, and I am excited for the chance to be part of something bigger than myself,” said Aliggayu. “I am enthusiastic about representing student voices in a thoughtful and authentic way. I want to be a tenacious advocate for the concerns and experiences of students who may not always feel heard. I’m eager to listen, learn, and contribute in any way I can.”
Rose Pastore
Rose will be a senior next year and has been involved in several high school clubs, including the Sign Language Club, Sources of Strength Program, the Spanish Honor Society and Student Senate. Rose serves as the president of the Philosophy Club, a role she has held since her sophomore year. In addition to her club activities and leadership roles, Rose is a member of the girls’ varsity soccer team.
“As the Board of Education student representative, I am most looking forward to connecting students whose voices are less represented in our district to the Board of Education,” said Pastore. “I want to help make each BC student feel like their needs are met by their school, be it elementary, middle, or high school.”
As ex officio members of the Board, one or both student representatives will sit with the Board at all public meetings and public hearings, however, they will not be able to vote, attend executive sessions or other meetings or hearings not open to the public.