Bring Students to the Table for School Decisions

NOTE: This strategy is part of the self-paced Amplify Learner Voice Course

Asking students their opinions about decisions that affect them in their school community is a great place to start listening to learners. However, taking it a step further puts students at the decision making table. Inviting students to participate in school or district-wide decisions by being on the board, a part of a student government or on an ongoing advisory council gives them a direct way to influence decisions that affect them and their peers.

Bright Spots

Gain inspiration from authentic examples of this strategy shared by teachers who have used them with their learners.

Creating your own Bright Spots? Let’s get them out into the world! Share yours here.

Student Board Members

Source: https://www.aacps.org/smob

Anne Arundel County in Maryland has a student member of the board who has full voting power like their adult counterparts. Students are elected by the regional association of student councils and appointed by the governor.

Student advisory councils and student voice retreats at Washoe County School District.

Student-Led Government

Source

Nova High School is “democratically governed by committees made up of students, teachers, parents, guardians, alumni, principal, and staff. School matters are addressed by the entire community. All have a voice and a vote on issues including managing the budget, changing class schedules and activities, staff hiring, and changing the governing system itself. Students can also participate in or create Committees for credit and fun.”

Related Learner-Centered Content