NESSC School Redesign in Action

How can educators and other adults create authentic opportunities for youth to assume leadership roles, advocate for issues that truly matter to them, and have their voices not only be heard but acted upon by district, school, and community leaders? What is the difference between being an adult advisor and being a true adult ally? How can adults working with youth move beyond support to achieve genuine empowerment? Throughout New England and the country, educators, parents, and community members have realized that the voices, needs, and priorities of students need to be at the forefront of school improvement. Drawing on their experiences working with hundreds of youth leaders and organizers in Providence, Rhode Island, the facilitators will share lessons and best practices for empowering youth voice and action in schools and communities.

In this interactive workshop, participants will learn about the common challenges adults face when working with youth, alternative student-driven approaches educational decision-making, and practical techniques that adult allies can use to elevate youth agency in everything from municipal policy and school governance to classroom instruction and curriculum design.