November 2023 - Our Blueprint in Action: Student Voice in the Shiloh Cluster

Join us as we delve into Student Voice in our Shiloh Cluster.

“Student voices are voices of change; change can only occur when voices speak up for it,” says Andreas, Shiloh HS Senior.

In GCPS, we strongly believe that Student Voice is essential to transforming our district's culture and supporting each and every student. When students are supported and encouraged to share thoughts, experiences, and ideas about mental health and diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging– they are empowered to positively impact and change the culture within their schools, and the district.

In the Shiloh Cluster, home of the “Generals,” elevating Student Voice means providing students with opportunities to engage in high-quality, rigorous, culturally responsive curriculum while engaging in an array of existing and student-created clubs and organizations. Within the cluster there are opportunities and access to explore programs such as Dual Language Immersion (DLI), International Baccalaureate, Advanced Placement to Pathway Certifications, and Work-Based Learning. Staff throughout the cluster want students to have a sense of belonging – students’ voices are not only heard but celebrated.

“Education is the reason why students come to school. Their voices end up becoming the heartbeat of their education, and listening to the voices of students allows a dynamic learning environment that can adapt to what they need,” says Anthony, Shiloh HS Senior.

At Shiloh Elementary, Student Voice and impact means collaboration. Students are active participants in their education through opportunities like the Yearbook Cover Contest, Field Day, and various clubs like coding, art, robotics, running, safety patrol, and chorus. “I enjoy robotics club because I like to build with LEGOs. I learned that I don’t have to always collaborate with my friends, and I can collaborate with anyone,” says Shiloh ES student Kaitlyn.

The school’s art club provides students with the space and freedom to express themselves. Students engage in various projects, and have contributed to their own art gallery and created their own guitars, while learning important lessons along the way. “I enjoy making different types of artworks, and I really enjoy sketching. I learned it is fun and difficult sometimes to collaborate,” says Emmanuelle, Shiloh ES student.

To continue bringing student expression to the forefront, Shiloh Elementary hosts the Yearbook Cover Contest. Although there can only be one winner, all students who submit an entry have their artwork displayed in the hallways.

Beyond the classroom, schools like Shiloh Middle offer an array of clubs and extracurricular activities that cater to students' diverse interests. Whether it's robotics, drama, video production, environmental clubs, or student-led community service organizations, there's something for everyone. An exposure to sports, clubs, and organizations provides a healthy balance where students have a say in what they want their education experience to look and feel like and develop into well-rounded individuals ready for the challenges of the modern world. This year, the 6th Grade Sneaker Ball, set for December 8, will be a prime example of students joining their voices and efforts to create a new event. “Our 6th graders brought the idea to our administration,” says Dr. Syllen Kelly Hill, 6th grade assistant principal. “They have been engaged in every aspect of the planning, and it is amazing to watch.” Dr. Hill shared some comments from Shiloh MS students involved in the Sneaker Ball’s planning:

“The inspiration was that my friends were wanting an event, so we all agreed to throw a Sneaker Ball,” says Tavion, 6th grader.

“I have learned that working together and with other people... means making new friends and having fun together,” says Abigail.

Breanna adds, “My voice is being heard because I am considered a leader and I get to be a part of something fun and cool!”

“My voice is being heard by a lot of people because I know a lot of kids and I am spreading the news,” says Carlos.

At Annistown and Anderson-Livsey Elementary schools, clubs provide an opportunity for students to explore their passions, develop leadership skills, and build lifelong friendships. Many of the clubs within the cluster exist because the students are empowered to create a space where everyone feels they belong.

As a 4th grader in an Annistown Elementary club, Ayveri is able to explore similar interests at home, and in school. “I enjoy gardening club because I get to do something that I normally do with my mom at home. I like to grow strawberries and vegetables because they are good foods that can make you healthy,” she says.

Even events like inviting a reading guest provide students with opportunities to learn and grow. “I like it when we have reading guests because they make their voice sound really cool and it helps me understand the book better,” says 1st grader Gabrielle.

And, when it comes to STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) activities at Annistown Elementary, students enjoy variety and expand their skills. “When we go outside and look at plants, we see more about what we are learning that will help us build things like an engineer to have a real-world experience,” says 3rd grader Aubree.

Academic excellence is also a cornerstone of the Shiloh Cluster, where dedicated staff members go above and beyond to provide a challenging and nurturing learning environment that encourages students to strive for their best.

“As a student, I have a firsthand experience of the issues impacting my community and can provide unique perspectives that may not be visible to adults,” says Raymond, a Shiloh HS Senior. “My views on what needs to change are essential for driving progress in my schools and neighborhood, and my voice as a student matters because I can lend authenticity, inspire activism, generate empathy, and identify solutions for growth.”

At Shiloh High, staff requested feedback from students when it came to celebrating their school and success stories, together. Principal Dr. Danyel Dollard challenged students to plan the events taking place at the school, including the pep rally. Seniors took the challenge seriously and strategically designed the most recent pep rally in a way that involved each and every student at the school. Student Council members added games, student MCs, and most importantly fun, opportunity, and spirit.

“Student participation and voice in the pep rally was really important– not only did we have a higher number of participants, but it also increased our school spirit,” says Senior Student Council Representative Joseph.

At Centerville Elementary, an investment in Student Voice means innovative teaching methods and leadership opportunities to ensure students are well-prepared for future challenges. Principal Bonita Banks started the Student Principal and Assistant Principal For A Day initiative eight years ago, during her first year as principal. Currently, students are nominated by their teachers and selected based on their leadership qualities. They are asked to complete a short essay providing the school leadership team with their reasons for wanting to be selected in these roles. When reflecting on her experience as Principal For A Day, 4th grader Aila hopes to set an example for her fellow students and friends.

“I know that I lead by example, I’m understanding, and I put myself in other people’s shoes,” Aila says.

As Centerville Elementary’s Principal and Assistant Principals For a Day, students participate in the admin morning meeting, morning announcements, classroom observations, lunch duty, teacher collaborative learning meetings, reading to kindergarten students, making decisions about a school-wide activity, and afternoon announcements. Ali, a 5th grader, and one of the assistant principals for the day, always wanted to know what it was like to be principal of his school and he feels that he’s never experienced anything better.

“I want [our students] to see it takes teamwork and collaboration to run a school, and my hope is they also walk away knowing that good decision-making skills are a necessary part of any job, but especially the job of a school leader,” Principal Banks says. “As for me, I have an opportunity to see our students demonstrate their desires to represent our school as a student leader and I get to engage in conversations with them about things that are important and give voice to their thoughts and perspectives about our school.”

Throughout the Shiloh Cluster, a focus on Student Voice demonstrates that students are not merely receiving an education; they are co-creators of their own futures. Each school fosters a sense of ownership and pride, empowering students to develop as well-rounded individuals prepared for the challenges of the future. Students are not only learning; they are thriving, growing, and becoming the leaders of tomorrow.

“When schools listen to the voices of students, this improves engagement and helps students trust that their thoughts and ideas are heard,” says Shriya, Shiloh Senior.