November 17, 2025

Hello Deering Community,

We are honored and inspired to announce that Safa Mohamed has been selected as Deering
High School’s Student Representative to the Portland School Board for the 2025–2026 school year.

Safa is deeply involved in both the Deering and broader Portland communities. At school, she
participates in Debate, Youth in Government, Mock Trial, the Black Student Union, and the Muslim
Student Association. Outside of school, she serves as a community leader through the American
Youth Association, Seeds of Peace Camp, weekend tutoring, as well as youth advocacy through
Youth Led Justice.

Selecting this year’s representative was a difficult decision for the team of administrators and
teachers, with several strong candidates. Safa’s letter of interest and vision stood out for its
thoughtfulness, clarity, and dedication to equity, justice, and youth advocacy. Her passion for
amplifying student voices and her commitment to making Deering a stronger, more inclusive
community truly stood out to the review team and exemplified what makes Deering “All One
School.”

We are confident that Safa will represent her peers with integrity, insight, and care, bringing the
perspectives of all students to district-level conversations. Please join us in congratulating Safa on
this well-deserved appointment.

With appreciation,
Mr. Burnap and the Review Team