Every month, PUSD holds a Board of Education meeting, where board members discuss, vote on, and make decisions about district budgets, policies and curriculum. Each regular board meeting includes a dedicated time for public participation: oral presentations. This is where every PUSD student, parent and member of the community has the opportunity to comment on non-agendized items. These topics often include concerns about recent issues, requests for policy changes, comments of appreciation, or even invitations to school events.
Yet, despite the dedicated time allotted for public comments, board members typically only hear a couple of quick comments from teachers or parents. They rarely hear from students. Many students do not know that they have the opportunity to attend board meetings and speak to the board members about any topic they wish. By remaining silent about the specific topics that matter to and concern them, students are missing out on a powerful opportunity to influence their own education.
Board policy states that one goal of the board is to recognize the “unique role of students, parents/guardians, staff, and community partners in contributing to a high-quality education for all students.” School boards are supposed to be responsive to community priorities. Students can best make their own priorities known through their personal testimony.
Not only can active student participation and interaction with school decision-makers influence policy, but by seeing their opinions valued, it can also help students view their schools in a better light, directly impacting their performance in school. A large-scale study from the University of Chicago found that responsiveness to student voice resulted in better academic outcomes — students had better grades and attendance, and there were reduced rates of chronic absenteeism. But, this all starts with students speaking up first.
Furthermore, student representation is crucial because while board members do their best to inform themselves—touring campuses and talking to students—it’s impossible for them to grasp everything that happens within schools. PUSD has hundreds of clubs, programs, classes, and initiatives, making it difficult for all to be taken into account when decisions are made. If students have concerns, one of the best ways to ensure the problem is addressed is to simply speak up, rather than taking a passive role. For board members to make decisions that benefit not only the majority of the student body but also the underrepresented and smaller groups, they must hear as many perspectives as possible. Public comments provide this opportunity.
Participation in board meetings also provides an excellent opportunity for students to learn about civic involvement and make an active difference in their communities. This can help develop skills that will be used throughout life, whether it be advocating for change in college, future workplaces, or city council. Gaining early experiences in civic engagement allows students to build confidence and gain experience in democratic participation.
Students truly do have a say in their education, and the board members do want to help. The best way we can make a difference is to make our voices heard.