My students responded to five open-ended survey questions today while enjoying the sunshine on the senior court. For the most part, students do feel free to express their opinions about what takes place in their classrooms, in their school, and in their extracurricular activities. The majority of the students claim that they learn more and enjoy class more if student voice is a welcome component.
As seniors they are pleased that student voice was instrumental in the plan to have graduation on the football field rather than in the gym. Some even noted that their senior projects are tangible evidence of valued voice. Athletes, band members, and club members believe their opinions matter more now that they have achieved senior status.
Although students want to have input, most of them expressed concerns related to this topic. For example, some perceive that their opinions are "condemned" if they do not match the teachers' philosophies. Some students feel as if teachers and administrators value the opinions of only a select few. For those whose siblings have already graduated, North Marion was a better place "back in the day" because student voice was more welcomed.
As they reflected on this survey, they decided that they want to leave evidence of the class of 2012 behind them in May. Are we headed toward a PBL?
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