East Hampton - Ross School is pleased to announce four of its High School students have been named to Congressman Tim Bishop's Student Advisory Council. Nathaniel Oppenheimer, Danielle Gingerich, Alexa Barrett and Moss Turpan, all juniors, were nominated by Mark Frankel, Director of the High School, based upon their outstanding records in leadership, academics and interest in government and politics.

"All four kids show tremendous leadership qualities at Ross," said Frankel, who wants them to not only learn about government, but "gain a passion and non-cynical view of government, and are brought into the process and see the pressures and opportunities at a local level."

The council represents juniors and seniors from high schools all over the First Congressional District. They meet several times during the year to discuss key national and international issues. The congressman provides updates on Washington politics, and the students offer input on issues of importance to them and their peers.

"I established the Student Advisory Council during my first year in Congress in order to discuss key issues with student leaders who represent the future of our country," said Congressman Bishop. "As a member of the Education and Labor Committee in Congress, I value the different perspectives and common-sense solutions that students bring to many policy questions - particularly those related to education and how we prepare young people to succeed in the workplace."

Nathaniel Oppenheimer was the first of the group to attend a meeting. "The various students from many different schools throughout the First Congressional District represented the wide political discussion. It was a good chance to hear viewpoints that I don't usually hear," he said. They discussed the presidential election post-mortem as well as the congressman's own race.

Overall, Ross students are excited about this opportunity and the potential they have to spur change.

"I hope that, as ambassadors for the Ross School, our group can explore with Bishop new ways to ensure that global elements are included in all school curriculums and programs nationwide," said Danielle Gingerich. "I also am excited to discuss our nation' s current political and economic situations, and to bring the issues and concerns of our peers to Washington."