Nisky Elevating Student Voices Program

Mental health, diversity, equity, and inclusion. These are some of a variety of topics that are so important–topics that many students have experience, ideas, and views about. Everyone has a different school experience, and for many, it may feel like their voice hasn’t been heard. Elevating students voices program is providing the opportunity for students to share their experiences and ideas that are so essential to improve our school. 

The new program was formed this year with the goal of hearing from students and addressing issues within the school. To carry this out, a series of steps were taken. First, students participated in a program with other schools, where they had the opportunity to learn about different issues such as microaggressions, as well as hear about other experiences of others. Students were able to discuss issues in the real world, such as gun violence and racism, and how these problems are affecting their own lives. They shared ideas relating to inclusion, equity and mental health, and how to emphasize the importance of such issues. Through this experience, students were able to expand their viewpoint as they were exposed to different people, heard different experiences, and learned more about a variety of issues. As a result, they could come back to school and share what was discussed.

In the middle of the school year, a Google form was sent out asking the following three questions: 

1. What are the most important topics that you would like to see addressed related to diversity, equity, inclusion, mental health, and wellness? 

2. On a scale of 1-5, how do you feel Niskayuna handles issues such as diversity, equity, inclusion, mental health, and wellness? Explain. 

3. What improvements would you like to see to feel supported, safe, and affirmed?

Statistics found that out of 260 students, 179 mentioned mental health.  17.3% of students were unsatisfied with how issues are handled, and 38% of students were neutral about it. The fact that 260 students even responded shows how eager they were to participate. Through these surveys the club was able to get feedback on what is important to students and what the school needs to improve upon. Some frequently mentioned topics  were mental health, homework, racism, bullying, and a variety of others. 

The next step was to hold two lunch forums. This gave students the opportunity to discuss in person with members of the club about what issues they face and how the school can be improved upon. Some of the main themes discussed were topics like having teachers and administrators more open to students approaching them, as well as creating ways for there to be more respect/deep relationship between teachers and students. This led to a discussion on how students want teachers to be more aware about issues such as bullying and racism. For example, teachers could choose to not read offensive words in speeches or readings. The use of correct pronouns and a greater emphasis on mental health in school was also frequently mentioned during the discussions. 

The final step was to take action. Creating a google slide, this group went and presented it to the high school’s faculty and staff. This gave an opportunity for teachers to hear about the said issues, what this club has been doing, and what needs to be improved. Bullying, mental health, academic pressures and many other topics were discussed.

The process of making improvements can be simple. Students can continue making murals like the ones in the history hall or outside the music rooms to encourage a welcoming environment within the school. Teachers can also adopt one of the art classrooms’ traditions and provide a snack cabinet for students. Niskayuna high school is a wonderful place; however, many students feel like they aren’t heard, and they have mentioned seeing problems with unenforced consequences. As one sophomore student stated at the lunch forums, “I'd like to see a lower rate of bullying in school… People I know still experience this and while we can try to not let it bother us, there are people that must have it way worse than I do. I would like this to be a safe space Niskayuna students do not have to be scared of walking into.” In several of the elementary schools, they have implemented the Be Kind Club. Unfortunately, the high school has yet to create such clubs, making it essential for students and teachers to show kindness and empathy, and to embody a welcoming environment.

On June 6th this club will be presenting to the board of education. Prior to this, members of the club attended the first annual Youth Summit as a final chance to discuss with other schools and share the progress made. Hopefully this will allow for future change. Next year, more action can be taken and more voices can be heard. “How do you want to be remembered,” was a question asked at the Youth Summit. Niskayuna students and faculty have an opportunity to work together and improve Niskayuna High School into the best version it can be. More voices need to be heard and that starts with more students speaking up and for adults to be ready to listen.