LUMBERTON — The Public Schools of Robeson County is proud to announce that Keely Deal, a student at Purnell Swett High School, has been appointed to serve as a Student Advisor to the North Carolina State Board of Education.
Keely was appointed by NC Superintendent Maurice “Mo” Green as a Student Advisor and will represent North Carolina's approximately 1.5 million public school students by providing a student perspective during Board discussions and deliberations. Her appointment is effective immediately and will continue for a two-year term through her senior year of high school.
In a letter announcing the appointment, Superintendent Green thanked Keely for her willingness to serve and expressed confidence that her voice and experiences as a public school student will be a valuable addition to the State Board of Education.
"We are incredibly proud of Keely for earning this distinguished appointment," said Dr. Freddie Williamson, Superintendent of the Public Schools of Robeson County. "She is an outstanding student leader who exemplifies the excellence, character, and commitment to service that we strive to cultivate in our schools. We know she will represent Purnell Swett High School, our district, and students across North Carolina with integrity and distinction."
As a Student Advisor, Keely will participate in State Board of Education meetings, offering insight on issues that impact students throughout North Carolina while helping inform educational policy and decision-making.
"We are excited to see Keely use her leadership skills to help shape conversations that affect students across our state," said Purnell Swett High School Principal Clyde Leviner. "This appointment reflects her dedication to academic excellence, leadership, and serving others. We are proud to celebrate this well-deserved honor."
Keely is expected to begin her service with the State Board of Education at its September meeting.
“I am incredibly honored and grateful for the opportunity to serve as a North Carolina Student Advisor,” Deal said.
“This appointment is more than a personal achievement—it’s a chance to represent the voices of students across our state and help create meaningful change. I look forward to learning from others, serving with integrity, and ensuring every student knows their perspective matters. I’m thankful to everyone who has supported me along the way, and I hope to make my community and North Carolina proud,” she added.
The Public Schools of Robeson County congratulates Keely on this remarkable achievement and looks forward to the positive impact she will make as a student leader at the state level.