"Our Student Advisory Council is a priceless resource as we make decisions that impact students across our county,” Superintendent Dr. Watts said. “I am so excited to get to know the students on our council this year, to listen and learn from them as they share their perspectives and help us make the best possible decisions for all students in GCPS. Elevating student voice is central to implementing our strategic plan. When we do this well, we should see increased student and family engagement, enhanced student-adult communication, and increased trust between students and educators.”

Dr. Watts started the (GCPS) Superintendent’s Student Advisory Council in 2022, just months after being named Superintendent in July 2021.

Apply for the 2024-25 Superintendent’s Student Advisory Council

The Superintendent's Student Advisory Council is a crucial avenue for middle and high school students to directly influence districtwide decisions, processes, and culture. It's an opportunity to share feedback, school experiences, and innovative ideas to address challenges with Superintendent Dr. Calvin J. Watts on a variety of issues affecting students, schools, and communities.

Dr. Watts is seeking student advisory council members who are concerned about the needs of all students and have a desire to ensure Gwinnett County Public Schools is constantly improving. Dr. Watts values students who express views and opinions honestly, openly, constructively, and respectfully, fostering safe and encouraging environments for everyone to engage.

All in-person meetings are held at the Instructional Support Center (ISC), located at 437 Old Peachtree Road NW in Suwanee. SSAC meetings are about more than just sharing feedback. The meetings are also opportunities for personal growth and learning; meetings are designed based on student applications and input at meetings. At each meeting, we will take photos to share through district platforms, including a group photo at the September 21 meetings, capturing the journey of your growth and learning.

Students interested in serving on the Superintendent’s Student Advisory Council should be committed to attending the four Saturday meetings during the 2024-25 school year. The 2024-25 meeting dates are:

• September 17, 2024          Microsoft Teams Pre-Meeting, 4:30–5:30 p.m. This meeting is optional and will be recorded.
• September 21, 2024        Middle School 8:30 a.m. – 10:30 a.m., High School 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
• November 16, 2024         Middle School and High School combined 8:30 a.m. – 1 p.m.
• February 8, 2025             Middle School and High School combined 8:30 a.m. – 1 p.m.
• April 24, 2025                   Microsoft Teams Meeting, 4:30–5:30 p.m. This meeting is optional and will be recorded.
• May 3, 2025                       Middle School 8:30 a.m. – 10:30 a.m., High School 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.

 

Interested in Applying for the 2024-25 SSAC?

The 2024-25 SSAC application will be available as a link through StudentSquare and in StudentVUE August 7-28, 2024. The application includes questions about you and your ideas for improving the school experience for all students, and how we can collectively address challenges facing our students and schools. In addition, the application outlines the expectations for those wishing to serve. 

Applications must be completed by Wednesday, August 28 at 10:00 PM. We will notify students selected to serve on the Superintendent's Student Advisory Council on or before September 11, via your student email.

 

Questions? Please email: Melissa.Laramie@gcpsk12.org

Looking for more Student Voice Opportunities? State School Superintendent Richard Woods is seeking students in grades 10-12 to serve on his 2024-25 Student Advisory Council. Learn more and apply by September 6, 2024. 

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