Student Leadership
Across the District
The Gates Foundation kicked off the second year of the Education Roundtable by reaffirming its critical role in shaping student outcomes in Washington state. Various school leaders, adults and young adults alike, joined together to continue their look at data, trends and research with an eye on defining and increasing post-secondary success in our state. Dr. Tammy Campbell of The Scholar First emphasized the importance of including students in educational transformation, stating, "We cannot do the work of transforming schools unless we have the very people at the table that schools are intended to serve—students." Representing the student voice from EPS were Abeal Sihel of HeLa, and Justin Levin and Liliana Whitmore of Heritage. The fall session focused on unpacking the concept of "inspiration" in relation to post-secondary success, with participants discussing key factors such as support, role models, and opportunities. Adult practices like fostering genuine relationships and offering rigorous, student-centered learning environments were identified as crucial to inspiring students. The meeting concluded with a focus on expanding dual credit options and strengthening communication within the P-20 education system.