They’ve done the research. They’ve collaborated among themselves. They’ve even met with senior leadership.
And now, based on those efforts, a group of district students has released a report with recommendations on how to improve school life for their fellow students.
The Council of Student Leaders, a student-led initiative which began during the 2022-2023 school year, released its Report and Recommendations on Diversity and Inclusion in ASD-W in June. The group of 24 students represented both urban and rural schools, and included representation from First Nation, LGBTQI2S+, international, newcomer, and English as Additional Language communities.
Among their findings, students determined that murals and other art representing the diversity of the district were well represented. However, they determined that the numbers of support workers for students, like social workers and counsellors, were insufficient.
“The Council recommends ensuring student resources are promoted and not just given out when requested,” the report said. “It is crucial that all students feel supported and represented in their educational environment…”
The report has already been reviewed by senior district leadership, as well as the District Education Council.
According to the report: “The Council [of Student Leaders] wants to ensure that people with administrative power will create a more diverse school environment in which all students feel included.”
Updates on the ongoing work of the Council of Student Leaders can be found on their page in the About ASD-W section of our district website, under Leadership and Governance > Councils and Committees.