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Pioneer Elementary School

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Superintendent Student Advisory Symposium Focuses on Sense of Belonging

Posted Date: 11/21/24 (9:00 AM)

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Superintendent Student Advisory Symposium Focuses on Sense of Belonging

On Monday, Nov. 18, Superintendent Krestin Bahr and her cabinet held the Superintendent Student Advisory Symposium. The Superintendent Student Advisory includes students from all three of PSD's high schools to discuss important issues and advocate on behalf of their peers. This year's theme centered on students' sense of belonging and the district's HIB (harassment, intimidation, and bullying) reporting protocols.

During the event, students engaged in thoughtful discussions, responding to questions such as:
  • What is a place where you feel the safest physically, emotionally, and mentally? What makes that place special?
  • Can you share an experience where you or someone else felt disrespected or unsafe at school?
  • Remember a time you felt included at school? Or a time a teacher/staff member made students feel welcomed?
  • What changes would you like to see in your high school to enhance feelings of safety and belonging for all students?

This feedback is part of a broader initiative by the chiefs to assess and enhance the district's HIB practices, aiming to create a more inclusive and welcoming atmosphere in all PSD schools.

This symposium is one of many student voice panels PSD hasat all of the school buildings. These panels are held every six weeks to encourage students to voice their concerns to be brought forward and addressed in each building. This initiative is crucial as it aligns with the district's Strategic Plan, which prioritizes the creation of "safe, inclusive, and welcoming learning environments" for every student. By collecting and utilizing student feedback to guide policy and practice adjustments, the district is actively working to cultivate a culture of belonging and respect throughout all PSD schools. This reflects the district's dedication to its core values of equity, compassion, and collaboration.

Thank you to the students who participated in this week’s event, and shared their open and honest opinions with our district leadership.