By Kiera Bourne-Bey, Youth Program Specialist
This winter, our work in Delaware brought us into continued partnership with Brandywine School District and Red Clay Consolidated School District, engaging high school and middle school students in meaningful conversations around equity and school climate.
In Brandywine School District, we hosted our second Student Voice retreat with middle and high school students. Building on earlier work, students came ready to deepen their understanding of youth and adult partnership and strengthen their leadership skills. Together, we revisited school climate data, explored themes connected to belonging and voice, and worked in teams to identify priorities for the year ahead.
Quotes From Brandywine School District:
“My school needs to come together as a community.”
“Don’t change things to change them, but change them to make everything better”
“It’s okay to share your thoughts”
At Red Clay School District, we facilitated the district’s first Student Voice Advisory retreat with high school students. The day centered on building community, establishing shared expectations, and introducing the foundations of collaborative decision-making. Students explored how data can illuminate strengths within their schools while also highlighting opportunities for growth. Through discussion and team-based activities, school groups began shaping the vision for how student voice can influence school climate in a positive way.
Quotes From Red Clay:
“Being inclusive and working together can improve the community as a whole.”
“Some people appear to be misunderstood and can be very friendly if you take the time to meet them”
“We are stronger together”
Across both districts, students showed curiosity, leadership, and a clear commitment to making inclusive environments where all students feel seen and supported. These retreats marked important moments in strengthening student partnership and advancing equity centered work throughout Delaware schools.
