Greetings Thompson School District Students, Staff, Parents and Community Members:
As I enter my 25th year in public education, I am still learning and evolving in my leadership. I have been a classroom teacher, a dean, an assistant principal and principal, a director of schools and an assistant superintendent all before securing this superintendent position. One thing that I know for certain is that leveraging student voice is absolutely necessary and critical in order to be in-touch and responsive to student needs. In my first year in TSD, I have created four key opportunities to leverage student voice in authentic and meaningful ways. Through these experiences and activities, I am better able to understand and include students as key stakeholders in our decision-making in the district, as well as directly incorporate their voice and ideas into how we better serve our students.
Student Advisory Groups
One way to remain in touch with the needs of students is to simply talk with them. Far too often, educational leaders talk about kids, talk around kids and think about what kids need and want. Perhaps the path of least resistance is to simply talk with kids. This year, I have started three student advisory groups – one each for high school, middle school and elementary students. Each building principal selects 2-3 students from each school to meet with me on a regular basis to provide insight and perspective about what life is like as a student. These rich conversations have yielded great information, perspective and ideas that I can take forward to my leadership team and principals. Topics have ranged from school lunch programs and passing period times to student engagement in classrooms, grading policies and curricular offerings.
Shadow a Student Day
In December, all members of my Leadership Cabinet had the opportunity to spend a half day shadowing a student and experiencing what a day-in-the-life of an elementary, middle or high schooler is all about. I shadowed a senior at one of our high schools and followed her through her morning schedule. Perhaps there is no better way to authentically experience what our students experience unless you actually have the chance to walk in their shoes. The experiences gained through these shadowing events provide great perspective and a true glimpse into what our students get to experience. The visibility of senior leadership in our schools and classrooms also sends an important message to the school communities—that what is taking place in these buildings matters.
Meeting with Student Council Leaders
From December through February, I met with student leadership at each of our secondary schools by attending a student council meeting. As “elected officials” at each building site, these students represent student voice and student governance. I recognize that student leaders have opinions and ideas that can often be brilliant and revolutionary. By taking the time to engage in conversations, meet students on their “home turf,” and acknowledge their importance by spending time with them, I can honor their voice and seek to understand ways we can meet their needs simply by talking with them.
Student Presentations at Board of Education Meetings
Twice a month, our Board of Education meets to conduct the business of our district. Providing a venue and an authentic platform for students to directly engage with our Board of Education is important so that our seven member Board can hear from our student body. From the late fall to the end of the school year, students are invited to present updates to the Board about their school, celebrations and ideas and opportunities to better the overall student experience. By inviting students to speak for themselves and engage directly with the Board, this important exchange of ideas provides perspective and information.
School districts exist to serve the needs of students. By taking the time to listen, we can learn a lot about student needs. This is one of the most important things I can do as a leader– and something that I commit to continuing to do. Enjoy your March and thanks for your support of TSD!
Dr. Marc Schaffer
Superintendent
Thompson School District