Boys & Girls Clubs of Sarasota and DeSoto Counties Hosts the Student Advisory Forum

December 20, 2024 | Sarasota

The Superintendent’s Student Advisory Council, a student-led board comprised of alumni from Boys & Girls Clubs of Sarasota and DeSoto Counties’ STAR (Students Taking Active Roles) Leadership Training program, hosted its annual Superintendent’s School Forum on Tuesday, December 3, at Suncoast Technical College.

The event brought together more than 75 teens from seven local high schools for an open dialogue with Sarasota County School District officials. These discussions centered on key educational topics, fostering collaboration and generating actionable ideas to enhance the future of Sarasota County Schools.

Each year, the Superintendent’s Student Advisory Council collaborates with the Superintendent of Schools to plan and lead the annual forum and provide a platform for meaningful dialogue between students and district officials. During this year’s forum, thirteen Club members representing each public high school in Sarasota County engaged in thoughtful discussions on key student-identified topics, such as communication, innovative teaching strategies, future planning, student wellness, and more.

To close the event, an open Q&A session allowed participants to engage directly with Superintendent of Schools, Terry Connor, who carefully addressed the students’ questions and shared valuable perspectives.

Ava M., a senior at Pine View School and Chair of the Superintendent’s Advisory Council, reflected on the forum: “This event allowed students from across the district to collaborate on issues within the school system, discuss challenges, and explore potential solutions. It was incredible to play a role in amplifying student voices. The Superintendent listened to and answered questions from the crowd, fostering genuine dialogue between students and school administrators. Thanks to this opportunity provided by BGCSDC, I’ve truly learned the power of my voice and leadership.”

Sarah L., a sophomore at Booker High School, shared a similar sentiment: “Initially, as a Superintendent’s Student Advisory Council member, I anticipated needing to coax discussions out of my peers. To my surprise, I found myself among equally passionate and driven people who care deeply about our schools. This shared enthusiasm inspires me to keep working towards change.”

She added, “The district staff at our table played a critical role in shaping our success. Their expertise helped us brainstorm practical solutions and brought clarity to challenges we hadn’t fully considered, enriching our conversations with their thoughtful feedback.”

Over the next month, the Council will be reviewing the recommendations and comments made during the Superintendent’s Forum to compile and present a report to the office of the Superintendent.

This event has resulted in real policy change in Sarasota County Schools’ system in years past. Teens in attendance hope their voices will serve to implement the changes they’d like to see across Sarasota County Schools.

To learn more about the opportunities offered through the STAR Leadership Training program, visit theclubsdc.org or contact Liz Mena, Teen Program Director, Lee Wetherington Club, Boys & Girls Clubs of Sarasota and DeSoto Counties, at 941-366-3911.