A Student's Perspective on the Ken-Ton BOE Meeting

On Tuesday, September 12, I attended the board meeting with my peers. During the meeting, there were several topics we discussed. Opening the meeting, Franklin students sang the national anthem to the audience. The Board of Education has some significant goals for the school year. One big goal is diversity and inclusion among students. This new initiative is to make sure students feel a part of something, including the school environment. Having students feel included ensures joy amongst students. Seeing the eighth graders being welcomed truly excites me for the school year. Another goal is to increase safety for students, teachers, and staff. To ensure structure, the board plans on not tolerating fights; those who engage in fights will receive strict disciplinary action. New security equipment was purchased by the district and will be used at all school functions. Lastly, the board is invested in monitoring students' social, emotional, and mental health. We can already see this in student life because Kenmore West is so focused on Blue Devil Connections. Blue Devils Connections gives students the chance to express how they feel. I find the Blue Devils Connection days helpful because I can connect with my peers and express my feelings. 

The board was pleased to announce free lunches and free breakfast this school year. Since this system has been put in place, an average of 910 more kids are being provided with meals at school each day. Kelly White, the assistant superintendent for curriculum leadership and instruction, spoke at the meeting about the summer school program has increased the graduation rate to 92%. Hearing about this is fantastic. Principal Kia Evans and her team of English teachers at Franklin Elementary presented the RISE program. This short-term reading intervention targets children who read below grade level. Teachers take cues from the students and work in small groups to ensure comprehension. 

Gabriella Pilat, a junior at Kenmore West, brought attention to the theater program. She talked about how the stage is in a "state of distress," and despite constant efforts from students and staff, renovations have not been made. Gabriella stated how the football program is always prioritized, yet the theater program is rarely taken care of: "Just because I am not the star football player does not mean that I shouldn't have the same opportunities as them." Gabriella asked the board to look into this problem so that future students can get the education they deserve. Having the Board allow speakers to present and share their thoughts is excellent. The Board should consider these to improve the school environment. 

After attending the meeting, I can tell that the Board of Education is making an effort to prioritize all the students and their needs. The Board is so passionate about education and ensuring students feel safe. The Board has so much joy when hearing about all the positive things going on in students' lives. Going to this meeting made me realize that my school provides so much opportunity for me as a student. Last year, I wasn't involved in any activities. This year, I feel a spark. I am a part of something and look forward to going to school daily. Truly, I am beyond ecstatic for the school year. GO DEVILS!