Jacqueline Velasquez, Ross

I would like to be Student Council Co-President to facilitate significant opportunities for all students. Utilizing my connections to Northwell Health and other established institutions, I can open doors, not just for students perusing STEM, but by connecting diverse professions and resources to benefit each student, their family, and Brentwood as a whole. As President of Emerald Echo, our school’s creative writing journal, I have further developed my leadership skills. I also have prior experience in tutoring and mentorship, which has allowed me to genuinely listen to my peers, understand their needs, and help them achieve their goals.

Areba Ehsan, Sonderling

I am a hardworking and caring student who always tries my best in everything I do. I enjoy helping my classmates, whether it’s explaining schoolwork, working together on projects, or just being there for support. I love giving back to my community through volunteering, donating whenever I can, and helping clean up public spaces. I also babysit for free to help families who need a break or can’t afford child care. Helping others makes me feel good, and I believe it’s important to be kind and supportive. I always try to lead by example and make a positive difference wherever I can, both in school and outside of it.

Mariam Esmati, Sonderling

I want to make these years memorable by representing the entire student body and making sure everyone’s needs are met. That means cleaner bathrooms, care kits with hygiene supplies, and bigger budgets for clubs that bring our school to life. I’ll set up a school supply drive so no student is left without essentials and organize fundraisers to lower costs for prom, field trips, and other events. Students deserve a voice, so I’ll hold regular meetings where you can give feedback—anonymously or openly. I also want to start a recycling program that turns collected items into funds for our school, helping cut costs on laptop repairs while supporting the environment. Food and clothing drives will be another way we give back. If you want a leader who listens and takes action, Be a Smartie, Vote for Esmati!

Maham Farooq, Sonderling

I want to be Co-President because I’m passionate about making our school a more connected, fun, and supportive place for everyone. I’ve been actively involved in student council and other leadership roles, so I know how to organize events, communicate clearly, and listen to different perspectives. I’m reliable, creative, and not afraid to speak up for what students need. Whether it’s planning spirit weeks, improving school culture, or helping others feel heard, I’m ready to step up and lead with both energy and empathy. As Co-President, I’ll work hard to make sure every student’s voice matters.

Sheylin Flores, Sonderling

I want to be student council president to represent my peers, promote positive change, and help create a more inclusive environment. I’m a strong communicator, team player, and problem-solver. With experiences I gained from NHS, EHS, and SHH, I know how to organize events, collaborate with others, and exceed expectations. I’m committed to listening to student voices and taking action to address their concerns or inputs. Let me make a meaningful impact in our school.

Jameele Penafiel, Sonderling

I am running for Student Council Co-President because I have the qualities and experience to fulfill this position. I have held officer positions before like Historian for Kitty Hawk, Student Council President, and Executive Officer this year for Sophomore Class. I acknowledge that holding a position doesn’t just refer to being present to all meetings, but learning how we can all work together and contribute to enhance and improve, not just our school, but our community.

Alan Salvador, Sonderling

I would like to be an officer of student government because I want to be a voice. I’m running for student government because I feel like people’s voices in the school often times get shut down. Being in this position can be hard and challenging, but I know that I am the right man for the job. I am currently a shift leader at my job and that role has significantly improved my leadership skills and teamwork capabilities. I also am a  part of the marching band which has definitely taught me the discipline needed for this position. I’m very eager to help people and I know with this position I can do just that and more. With the help of students, we can actually make this a school year to remember.

Beyonca Gutierrez Rodriguez, Ross

Hello! My name is Beyonca Gutierrez Rodriguez and I would be honored to have your endorsement as I run for Student Council Junior Executive. I believe my experiences at Brentwood High School as a student, athlete, community member, and peer, authenticate my qualifications for this role. I excel in my honors and AP courses alongside extracurricular activities, which I truly believe keep me well-rounded and motivated to engage in our school community. Through my involvement — from the Student Council Board at the Freshmen Center to clubs like Youth & Government, I have honed my abilities in leadership, advocacy, and communication. I’ve always been incredibly proud to live within such a connected and diverse community, which I feel can reach even greater heights of impact through change. I am eager to listen to fellow students’ perspectives and ideas to make an impact. It’s meant to be — Hello! My name is Beyonca Gutierrez Rodriguez and I would be honored to have your endorsement as I run for Student Council Junior Executive. I believe my experiences at Brentwood High School as a student, athlete, community member, and peer, authenticate my qualifications for this role. I excel in my honors and AP courses alongside extracurricular activities, which I truly believe keep me well-rounded and motivated to engage in our school community. Through my involvement — from the Student Council Board at the Freshmen Center to clubs like Youth & Government, I have honed my abilities in leadership, advocacy, and communication. I’ve always been incredibly proud to live within such a connected and diverse community, which I feel can reach even greater heights of impact through change. I am eager to listen to fellow students’ perspectives and ideas to make an impact. It’s meant to be — vote Beyonca G!

Alexis Hernandez, Ross

I should be an officer of student government because I am a very social person, and I am passionate about working with others collaboratively. I make friends easily, and am great at socializing! I am both an AP and Honors student, and I have received 95 or above on all my Regents scores. I‘ve maintained a quarterly average above 97 all year, all while practicing sports. I have previous Student Council experience as I was Student Council President at the Freshman Center. I won three awards at the Departmental Awards for 2024-2025, one for AP Seminar, one for Honors Chemistry, and one for Spanish 2. I have remained in the top 5 students all year and will be taking 5 APs next year while pursuing wrestling. I desire to become valedictorian by the time I graduate in 2027.

Eric Lobos Arriaza, Sonderling

They say you’re never denied, only redirected – and I really believe that. I carry that mindset into everything I do, especially when it comes to leadership. Challenges help me grow, learn, and keep pushing forward. I’m running for student council junior executive and junior class Executive Board member because I care about our class and want to make a real difference. I’m creative, dependable, and full of ideas, but more importantly, I want to serve, not just have a title. I’ll do my best to listen, lead with purpose, and make our school year one we’re proud of.

Allison Martinez, Sonderling

Creating a community and participating in it is extremely important to me. I would like to be an officer for student council because it allows me to do just that. This position in student council is admirable to me since it opens up possibilities for me to input something new to the school community. I love being creative and displaying new ideas which is why I am so interested in a position with more involvement. My best qualities are my motivation and honesty. I do extremely well in school and I’m always attempting to challenge myself whether if it’s with rigorous courses like AP classes or in my artwork and other hobbies. I also try to communicate as effectively as possible to ensure that all parties are in agreement.

Donna Ortiz, Sonderling

Fulfilling the position of junior executive of the student council is a high honor and a privilege. Being given the chance, I know that I have the potential to be a worthy officer. To be able to help people, facilitate problems, and work with peers is an atmosphere I strive in. Whether it’s clubs, sports, school, or family, I understand the importance of representing a community. As a student, I understand the importance of being kind, considerate and respectful in everything I do.

Jalline Guevara, Ross

I want to be Senior Class President because I believe leadership means service, and I’m committed to serving our class with vision, action, and heart. From leading as a AFJROTC Cadet to organizing a 1,000-backpack giveaway for local students, I’ve turned ideas into real change. As Junior Class Executive Officer and Secretary, I helped lead successful events and fundraisers that brought our class together such as collaborating with businesses such as Chipotle to fundraise for our class. I’ve also represented student voices through Youth and Government, Brentwood Votes, and the D1 Youth Advisory Board, advocating directly with elected officials. These experiences have prepared me to lead with confidence, collaborate with purpose, and make sure every senior feels seen and celebrated. I want to make our last year not just fun, but unforgettable—filled with pride, unity, and opportunities to leave a lasting legacy. This isn’t just about holding a title—it’s about using my leadership to make a difference when it matters most. I’m committed to listening to your ideas and working with our team to make senior year one to be proud of. With a track record of service, initiative, and dedication, I’m ready to lead our class with heart and purpose.

Andrea Cairo, Sonderling

I am seeking a position in student government to significantly contribute to our culminating year. My aim is to foster an environment that students will remember as a highlight of their educational experience. With capable individuals in leadership roles, we have the potential to make this final year truly exceptional. If elected as senior class president, my priority will be to actively listen to your needs and preferences, ensuring our last year as Brentwood students is as memorable and impactful as possible.

Baaba Crayner, Ross

Through sheer determination and hardworking values that I have prided myself on through my academic journey, I believe I have made myself the most compatible candidate for the role of Junior Class President. Over the course of my years in both middle school and high school, I’ve been in a multitude of student government positions (such as Youth and Government, Student Council and Sophomore Class) and have shown exemplary skills, dedication and initiative which I have taken in many facets of my life and career. I believe my presence in this role will open doors to community and connection within the students and their communities, which I plan to work towards through community building activities. My fondness for the position stems from my own experience as a student of Brentwood and the experience of others. I have a strong interest in changing the high school experience for the better.

Kayla Volmar, Ross

I would like to be Junior Class President because I feel the Class of 2027 missed out on so many meaningful experiences due to COVID. I want to help make up for that by planning events that bring us joy, create lasting memories, and unite us as a class. I’ve been a dedicated member of student council for years both at the Freshman Center and with the Sophomore Class which has given me the experience to lead, organize, and listen to what students truly want. I also want to help erase any underlying hostility between schools and build a stronger, more connected community. Together, we can make these next years the best of high school.

Christopher Argueta Claros, Sonderling

Hello everyone, I’m seeking your support for Junior Class President and Student Council Junior Executive. My passion is enhancing our school, and I believe my experience makes me an ideal candidate. As a former Student Council Vice President and current Sophomore Class Executive Board member, I’ve already demonstrated leadership. My commitment extends to extracurriculars, including my recent role as a Tri-M Music Honor Society officer. I’m dedicated to representing your voices and acting on your ideas. I’m ready to work hard for you, ensuring our junior year is exceptional. Your vote would be greatly appreciated. Thank you!

Amali Spence, Sonderling

Being Co-President of Junior Class is something I am interested in doing because I can continue to collaborate with people in my community and help my school. I have maintained honor roll throughout middle school and high school so far. In middle school I took a science course at Stony Brook University in 7th grade. I’ve always been involved in my community. My mom has been in the PTA since I was in elementary school, so I’ve always been involved. Last year I was the freshman campus liaison and this year I’m the Brentwood High School liaison in the PTSA. I am also Co-President of Sophomore class this year and I student teach dance classes with TADA in West Islip. Last summer, I participated in the 7 habits of highly effective teens at BOCES where we learned how a person’s character, rather than personality, determines their personal and interpersonal effectiveness.

Amy Velasquez, Ross

I want to be a Junior Class Executive Board member because I care about our school and want to help make it better. I enjoy working with others and listening to their ideas. I believe that student voices should be heard, and I want to be someone who helps make that happen. I am responsible, organized, and a good listener. I have helped with school events before and know how to plan and work with a team. I try to be kind and fair to everyone, and I want to make sure all students feel included and respected. I am ready to work hard and take this role seriously.

Giselle Calderon, Sonderling

My name is Giselle Calderon and I have been active in school programs since the 9th grade and I’ve learned how to manage my time. I also maintain Honor roll every single quarter. I am in Tri- M and was a part of student council, sophomore council, and Girls Inc. I believe I am ready to go onto a position like Executive. I don’t have any leadership position so I’m hoping this is my first. I work hard and care about my school and community. I speak confidently and strong so I am not afraid to stand up. I feel prepared to take on a responsibility like Junior Class Executive and hope to be considered.

Kali Spence, Sonderling

I’m excited to run for Junior Class Executive Board because I really want to make this year memorable for everyone. As Event Coordinator during my freshman year, I loved organizing fun activities that brought our school together, like school dances and spirit weeks. This year, as a member of the Sophomore Class Executive Board, I gained leadership experience, working with teachers and students to plan larger events and manage fundraisers for later activities. I’m passionate about making sure every voice is heard, and I want to create events that reflect our class’s spirit.