Leadership
When we seek out student voice, it is most effective to ensure multiple voices are included, and the community knows this process is happening, but being utilized for decision-making. Making space for student perspective and ideas for inclusion and to ensure accuracy.
Bringing student leadership to one or more priorities will enrich and deepen the plan, & promote shared ownership and accountability. Public forums for students to convene, with adult stakeholders, to discuss shared values and vision for the school community are incredibly powerful and have lasting impacts - if outcomes are implemented and communicated broadly.
Considerations for Adult Leaders
It takes time and commitment to see student leadership consistently in a school.
Groups that are dedicated to this purpose such as Student Voice Committees are ideal because while the ultimate goal is to have students drive the work themselves, a trained adult partner is important for student support.
*Important to note that transparency is key. It is critical the students work to hear from all students in the building - and adults make a point to communicate process & decision rationale to the rest of the student body.
Tensions/Potential Challenges
TENSION: There is no “arrival” when it comes to student voice and youth participation. Understanding the dynamic nature of the spectrum is important to avoid “auto-pilot.”
Leadership requires continuous reflection and interrogation of beliefs and actions. Having a clear plan for how to approach important moments throughout the school year will support working through this tension.
If you have a SVC, this is a great way to deepen that partnership and expand their leadership.
In addition, being honest with students about where you are, and what your learning journey in inclusive partnerships is or has been will help build trust and collaboration.
Strategy, Tool, or Resource
For school improvement, student groups lead focus groups and surveys to cultivate student perspectives on school health and quality. Student Leaders present findings and possible actions with the student body and staff.
- Students lead their own assessment & scoring of SEF categories - check scores against those of CIWP Team, admin, & teachers.
- SVC’s can be trained and supported in leading CIWP assessment. Contact Emma Kornfeld Knapp for more info Ekornfeld@cps.edu
- Appoint student leaders or SVC to one of the SEF categories or priorities to conduct root cause analysis, poll students or conduct focus groups, develop an action-plan to propose to the CIWP team.
- Students own the implementation and progress monitor over time, regularly meeting with and reporting to CIWP Team or admin.
- Community conversations or Student Town Hall