While many talk about equity in education, few know how to implement it effectively for students and families experiencing racism. Project DREAMS offers one solution using youth voice. Students document objects, situations, and places representing racial equity or inequity throughout the program. In a culminating event, youth share their findings and describe policies, practices, norms, and behaviors that chronically disadvantage youth of color in school.
How are teachers better off?
- Cultivate a classroom culture that acknowledges and respects all students’ experiences.
- Co-create lessons with students to deepen connections to students’ experiences, interests, aspirations, and cultures.
- Increase confidence to respond to biases and inequities.
- Use student-centered learning strategies, such as project-based learning, and community-centered learning strategies, to address students’ learning needs, interests, aspirations, and cultures.
- Develop capacity for new or existing initiatives through university & community partnerships.
How are students better off?
- Equity concerns are elevated and amplified by partners and school leaders.
- Access to a network of peers and mentors who care about similar issues.
- Receive course credit and scholarship money.
- Opportunities for future consultancy and DEI-related career paths
How are communities better off?
- Identifies institutional bias and inequity in school and community.
- Prioritizes interests and needs of youth and families whose interests and needs have not historically been prioritized.
- Develops equity lens into future decision-making.
- Deepen commitments to equity and inclusion.
Youth voice in schools is important for several reasons:
- Empowerment and Ownership: Involving youth in decision-making processes gives them a sense of ownership and empowerment over their own education. When students have a say in matters that affect them, they are more likely to feel engaged and invested in their learning environment.
- Relevance: Students bring unique perspectives, experiences, and insights to the table. Incorporating their voices ensures that educational approaches, curriculum, and policies remain relevant and responsive to the evolving needs of the student body.
- Diverse Perspectives: Every student has a different background, culture, and worldview. Their input can provide educators and administrators with a broader range of perspectives, helping to create a more inclusive and equitable educational environment.
- Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving: Involving students in decision-making encourages them to think critically, analyze situations, and propose solutions. This promotes the development of essential skills that extend beyond the classroom.
- Preparation for Citizenship: Fostering youth voice helps students become informed, active, and responsible citizens. They learn how to engage in civil discourse, advocate for themselves and others, and participate in democratic processes.
- Boosting Engagement and Motivation: When students feel that their opinions are valued, they are more likely to be engaged in their education. This can lead to increased motivation, improved attendance, and a more positive attitude towards learning.
- Social and Emotional Development: Encouraging youth voice contributes to the social and emotional development of students. It promotes self-confidence, self-awareness, and interpersonal skills as students learn to communicate effectively and navigate different viewpoints.
- Leadership Skills: Participating in decision-making processes allows students to develop leadership skills. They learn how to articulate their thoughts, collaborate with peers, and take on responsibilities, all of which are valuable life skills.
- Teacher-Student Relationship: When educators actively listen to their students and involve them in decision-making, it enhances the teacher-student relationship. This positive dynamic can lead to improved communication and a more supportive learning environment.
- Innovation and Creativity: Youth often bring fresh and innovative ideas to the table. Their creative thinking can lead to new approaches, projects, and activities that enrich the overall educational experience.
Incorporating youth voice isn’t just about giving students a voice—it’s about recognizing them as active contributors and partners in their own education. It’s a way of fostering a more inclusive, collaborative, and effective learning environment that benefits everyone involved.
