WESTMORELAND, N.Y.- This year, New York State required every school district to include a student representative on its Board of Education and Westmoreland has one proud Junior, Nolan Murphy, filling that role.
In September 2024, Governor Kathy Hochul signed legislation mandating that, beginning July 1, 2025, all school boards must have at least one non-voting student member. The new law ensures that students have a voice in education discussions, allowing them to share their perspectives and help shape decisions that directly affect their learning experience.
At Westmoreland, Murphy has been doing just that since the law took effect this summer. “It’s been fantastic” he said. “I’ve loved every second of it.” Murphy began serving as the district’s Student Representative in July 2025. “It’s been amazing learning and getting to talk with people that have been on it for years.”
Under the law, student representatives attend public meetings and contribute to discussions but do not vote or attend executive sessions. Despite all that, Murphy says the experience has been very educational and empowering. “Being a part of something where decisions are being made and people are discussing what feels best for the school, it’s giving me firsthand, hands-on experience for what I could be doing when I’m older,” he said.
Murphy is no stranger to leadership. He has served as class president since sixth grade and takes pride in being the voice for his peers. “I think my classmates would agree that anytime someone feels there’s a problem, I’m always willing to talk with them and figure it out,” he said. “I love representing.” Murphy attends Student Council meetings and brings feedback directly to the Board, ensuring that the student body is part of ongoing district conversations. “My classmates know that there are a lot of things they want addressed,” he said. “I’m more than willing to address it.”
One recent topic, the district’s cell phone ban, came up at a recent meeting. This gave Murphy a unique opportunity to reflect on how policy changes affect students. “It really is a breath of fresh air sitting and talking with my classmates, having conversations not with our heads down on a screen,” he said. “It’s nice to just communicate and ask how their day is going.”
Superintendent Rocco Migliori appointed Murphy to the position, and Murphy says he’s “beyond honored and humbled” by the opportunity. “This is a role that’s going to help me grow as a person.”
Murphy’s family was equally thrilled about his appointment. “My family was very excited, almost more than I was!” he said.
He dreams of becoming an attorney or politician, and says this experience is preparing him for the future in ways no classroom lesson could. “Before this position, I had my presidency for a few years, but now I’m getting real, hands on experience,” he said. Right now, his focus is on the Westmoreland Central School District. “Representing my peers is something I take seriously,” Murphy said. “It’s not just about speaking it’s about listening.” Something he plans on doing very well, throughout his role.