The event brought together 125 students and 30 advisors representing grades 7-11 from 25 school districts and BOCES across the region.
Facilitated in partnership with Educate to Empower, NY, the summit focused on elevating student voice within schools and communities. Through guided discussions and collaborative activities, students explored topics such as strengthening school culture, expanding youth engagement in their communities, and ensuring that student perspectives are heard and valued.
By bringing students together from different schools and backgrounds, the summit created a space for participants to share experiences, learn from one another and recognize the common challenges and opportunities they face. The conversations reinforced an important message for students: their voices matter, they are not alone in their experiences, and they each have the power to help shape positive change in their schools and communities.
“We are proud to work with our school districts and community partners to create the conditions to elevate student voices and ignite synergy among our youth. Our collective efforts yielded amazing results for a shared student experience,” stated Dr. Cecilia Dansereau-Rumley, the assistant superintendent for curriculum & instruction at WSWHE BOCES.
School advisors and administrators also participated in their own facilitated discussions and activities designed to support ongoing student voice initiatives within their districts.
WSWHE BOCES continues to support student leadership and growth by creating opportunities for students from across the region to come together, share perspectives and build stronger, more inclusive school communities.
For additional photos, click here to go to Facebook.