Madelyn Falk Named Ex-Officio Student Member of School Board

Rising Huntington High School senior Madelyn Falk has been tapped to serve as the student ex-officio member of the Huntington School Board during the 2026/27 school year. She was sworn into office on Tuesday night during a public meeting of the board of education.

A year old state law requires school districts with a high school to include at least one ex officio student member on their school board beginning July 1, 2025.

“This law aims to recognize the value of including students’ voices on school boards and, thus, empower students by giving them a voice in the decisions that affect their education and wellbeing and the operation of their schools,” according to the bill sponsor’s memo that accompanied the legislation. “It also provides an opportunity for young New Yorkers to build skills and habits of civic engagement. As a result, the inclusion of student members is not only a step toward ensuring that the perspectives of young people are heard, but it also strengthens the work of school boards by fostering more inclusive, well-rounded decision-making processes.”

Ms. Falk is the vice president of Huntington’s Class of 2027 and recording secretary of the General Organization/student council. She owns a near perfect academic grade average and plays on the Blue Devil varsity girls’ volleyball team. The teenager has already completed six Advanced Placement courses.

“Community spirit has been a defining part of my experience throughout my time in Huntington UFSD,” Ms. Falk said. “Having been a student here since kindergarten, I have grown alongside my peers, building lasting relationships and a deep sense of pride in our school. As I progressed through each grade, I became more aware of how important student involvement and leadership are in shaping a positive and inclusive environment.”

Ms. Falk has been attracted to leadership roles as a way of contributing to the community. “Athletics have also played a significant role in my high school experience,” she said. “As a member of the varsity girls’ volleyball team since freshman year, I have not only developed as an athlete but also contributed to the energy and spirit of our school. I have seen firsthand how special sports truly are in bringing out school spirit in everyone. Participating in pep rallies each year has reinforced the importance of enthusiasm and school pride, as these events bring together students from all backgrounds to celebrate our shared identity.

The rising senior said she has always been committed to giving back to the community that has supported her. “Volunteering for initiatives like ‘stuff the bus,’ where we collect food donations for those in need and donate them to students who I walk the halls with each day, has been especially meaningful,” Ms. Falk said. “It has allowed me to see firsthand the impact that our collective efforts can have on others, reinforcing the idea that community extends beyond the walls of our school.”

The screening and selection process ranked student applicants for the ex-officio position on a scale of 1-5 in the following areas: leadership among peers, academic standing, communication skills, investment in school and community and initiative/school spirit.

“My journey through this district has shaped who I am today,” Ms. Falk said. “From my early years in elementary school at Washington Primary, to my current role as a senior leader, I have developed a strong appreciation for the values of teamwork, service, and school pride. These experiences have inspired me to continue advocating for students and fostering a positive environment.”