Student Voice
Upcoming forums
Regional Student Forums will be taking place in boards and schools during the fall and spring. Stay tuned for 2009-10 dates and locations.
Why are you having student forums?
We want to hear your perspectives and ideas about your education. Be a champion for Student Voice in your school!
What is involved in a student forum?
As a student in Grades 7 to 12, you may be invited to participate in these forums. The forum is a one-day consultation with other students from across the region.
A variety of education topics will be discussed. The information shared at the forum will be shared with the Minister's Student Advisory Council and the Minister of Education.
When will these student forums be held?
Student forums will be organized throughout the school year. You will meet other students, exchange ideas and work together to make positive changes at your schools.
How can I participate in a forum?
A different group of students will be invited to participate in each forum to ensure diversity and various perspectives from students across the province.
Please talk to your Student Success Teacher if you are interested in getting involved in a forum and share this with those you think would also be interested.
If you are not sure who your Student Success Teacher is, please talk to your principal.
Past Forums
2009
- April 14 – Sudbury (French)
- April 15 – Mississauga
- April 16 – Guelph
- April 17 – Sault Ste. Marie
- April 22 – North Bay
- April 23 – Timmins
- April 27 – Chatham (French)
- April 28 – Burlington (French)
- April 28 - Timmins (French)
- April 28 – Ottawa
- May 1 – Thunder Bay
- May 4 – Toronto
- May 15 – Kingston
- May 15 – Toronto (Grades 7 & 8)
- May 19 – Sudbury
- May 20 – London
- May 21 – Chatham
- May 26 – Waterloo
- May 27 – Hamilton
- May 29 – Fort Frances
2008
- November 13 – Collingwood
- November 25 – Ajax
What did we learn from past student forums?
We asked students to SpeakUp and here's what you said:
A school that engages students and ensures all voices are heard would:
1. Have activities outside the classroom
Based on students' interests, there should be a variety of activities available to include youth leadership, peer support and academic support.
2. Help students learn life skills
There should be strategies in place to help student learn life skills, such as leadership, teamwork and communication skills.
3. Offer a socially inclusive environment
A learning environment that is socially inclusive would give students opportunities to talk about issues such as bullying, racism, diversity and inclusivity.
4. Be an academically inclusive environment
In a learning environment that is academically inclusive, teachers understand individual student needs and learning styles.
5. Empower students to speak their mind
Build on the Student Voiceinitiative to ensure that all students feel welcome and empowered in their schools.
6. Allow students to give feedback on learning experiences
For example, gather ideas on the most effective ways to incorporate Smartboards in classrooms.
7. Keep students informed
Consult with students and inform them on decisions that impact their educational experience.
8. Give a high-quality education
Ensure students' experience of education is equitable wherever they live in Ontario. For example this could mean students have the same curriculum, classroom materials.
9. Encourage eco-friendly practices
Ensure and encourage eco-friendly practices in schools and classrooms. For example, composting, recycling, green roofs and healthier food options.
