Earlier this month, the Monroe County Community School Corporation’s (MCCSC) Superintendent’s Student Voice Advisory Council (SSVAC) convened for the first time this school year. The council includes students from all MCCSC high schools: Bloomington High School North, Bloomington High School South, Academy of Science and Entrepreneurship, and Bloomington Graduation School.
Last year, MCCSC Superintendent Dr. Markay Winston established the council to provide students with a leadership opportunity. Through the council, students are generating ideas and implementing projects to enhance the student experience for both current and future generations.
Last year, the SSVAC focused on defining the areas they were interested in impacting. Students’ ideas ranged from streamlining student communications, to helping students balance academics and extracurricular activities, to supporting students’ mental health. The council members worked in groups to refine and present their ideas to the Superintendent’s leadership team, who then provided feedback for students to consider going forward.
This year, the council will work on developing their ideas into projects and actionable steps.
“We are excited to continue listening, learning, and leading alongside you this year,” said Becky Rose, MCCSC Director of Student Services, who is part of the leadership team convening the council.
At their first meeting, students shared words and phrases that described the council.
“Power, understanding, thoughtful, caring, heard, together, responsibility, advocate, empowerment, mutual respect, connection, opinionated, empowered, representation, respect, harmony, community, engaged, unity, listen and impact” were words students used.
Over the course of the school year, the council will continue working in groups on their projects.
