There’s a phrase we hear often in education: student voice matters. It shows up in mission statements, strategic plans and conference panels. But too often, it stays an idea we agree with, rather than a practice we commit to. Fortunately, students are challenging that.
Amplifying student voices isn’t just about students being heard. It’s about them being trusted. It’s about being taken seriously enough that what students say can shape what schools do, teaching them confidence, responsibility and a host of other skills.
When students in Student Health Ambassadors in Hyde County just noticed hunger was a problem among their classmates they asked questions, gathered data and made a case. And because adults listened, something changed. Students now have access to breakfast during the school day. Being ready to learn rather than struggling to focus due to hunger is a tangible impact that can improve the school day for many students.
In Durham Public Schools, students in the SASH Club didn’t wait for someone else to address issues of harassment, safety and mental health. They stepped into that space themselves. They created opportunities for conversation and connection. And in doing so, they helped shift the culture of their school to make it a place where more students feel seen and supported.
These initiatives likely would not have grown in the ways that they did had students just been invited to share their opinions. In order to address real issues affecting them and their peers, these students were trusted with responsibility and the space to lead. And importantly, they were supported by adults who were willing to really listen first, and then help the students act.
Truly listening to students requires not assuming that we already know everything and can always offer the best answer (many of us are still learning too). That willingness to truly listen and allow students to figure things out is the difference between including student voice and investing in it so that it’s a learning opportunity and not just a platitude.
Investing in student voice is just as much about improving schools in the short term as it is about preparing future leaders for the long term. These opportunities help develop the skills that make strong communities possible: critical thinking, collaboration, communication and the confidence to speak up.
We’re also sending a message. We’re telling students that their experiences matter and that their insights are valuable. The people most affected by decisions in schools are students, meaning despite all the years of experience an educator, policymaker or advocate may have, we often still need students to get the full picture.
My team at the Public School Forum has heard many times, from many sources, that people want public schools to prepare students for life. Life is constant decision-making.
When students are trusted, they lead.
When students are supported, they grow.
And when students are heard, they help create schools that work better for everyone, and get to see that impact firsthand.
What better preparation is there?
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