Do we really value Student Voice?

I was lucky enough to support a student who really wanted to place a Maker Space in our learning common. He worked diligently for weeks to put in a proposal and ultimately be accepted into a Shark Tank type sales pitch to fund proposals. On Tuesday, I went to support my student and see what other students proposed. There were 14 presentations ranging from elementary school through high school. I left being blown away. They were showing their passions and working to change the world. Elementary students proposed an upgraded robot for their Lego-Robotic Team, Middle School girls wanted supplies to transform the messy girls locker room, High school students wanted to help fund a summer soccer camp for younger students, wanted test dummies to train students in CPR and a group of students wanted funding to open a school store. All students who presented were passionate and looking to change their school/community. I left impressed, proud and excited for my student who wanted to make a difference today. He wanted to leave a legacy for others to enjoy.

On the other side of the coin, I heard information that students next year aren't going to be allowed to choose their enrichment classes. Over the course of three years, each student will be allowed to try all of the enrichment classes but will have no choice in the matter. 

We also have a student council, who really has no voice in any of the decision making processes of the school. Do sometimes we have programs, just to have them? Do we really value student voice?  I have seen some amazing programs nationwide where students are part of interview committees, procedural committees and raising money for special causes. We have to connect with all stakeholders and that includes our students. The Quaglia Institute of Student Aspirations states that by the time students are in 12th grade only 34% believe that they have a voice in decision making about their education. This drops significantly from later elementary/early middle school. As teachers, we can start to empower our students if even by asking for feedback about a lesson or a unit. 

In the end, my student was selected to receive half of his original proposal to start his Makerspace in the learning common. He said "I think it's great that students will have the opportunity to build and create." Student's can make a difference today, all they need is the opportunity. Are we giving our students the opportunity?