Students Speak Out A MAP 150 Demonstration Project Project Overview In May 2007, the Citizens League launched a youth civic engagement Web site called Students Speak Out designed to gather authentic student input about declining enrollment and school closings in Minneapolis. Students and adults are working together at Students Speak Out to bring student voices into education policy discussions. A key feature of Students Speak during the summer of 2007 was “Students Take a Turn”. In addition to lively forums, interactive polls, and information sharing on the site, “Students Take a Turn” connects a diverse panel of students to adult education policy makers. Adults ask questions of the students that will help inform and guide their work. The contributions of the students have been described as insightful and informative. This fall, Students Take a Turn will enter a new phase by putting students in the driver’s seat. The Citizens League will continue their Students Speak Out work in Minneapolis, as well as partner with the Minnesota Association for Alternative Schools (MAAP) to work with a team of student “fellows” who will choose and research a topic of their own choosing. We’ll then work with the students to help guide and connect them with the resources necessary for finding a solution to their issue. In May 2007, the Citizens League launched a youth civic engagement Web site called designed to gather authentic student input about declining enrollment and school closings in Minneapolis. Students and adults are working together at Students Speak Out to bring student voices into education policy discussions. Goals
Effectively involve student voices in the education debate in Minnesota Demonstrate that students provide credible and important perspectives on education policy matters Show that including students in education matters leads to better education policy and ultimately better outcomes
