On January 13, 2023, Rome City Schools Superintendent, Dr. Eric L. Holland hosted the first meeting of the Rome City Schools Student Advisory Council at the RCS College and Career Academy.
The Rome City Schools Student Advisory Council is a group of students in grades 7-12 who meet to discuss how school level decisions affect all students throughout the Rome City School District.
The purpose is to amplify Student Voice and equip students to take ACTION by advocating for solutions to educational inequity.
"It was exciting for me to get a chance to get in front of students again," said Dr. Holland. "We are there not just to listen, but to come up with solutions."
Members meet with Dr. Holland throughout the school year and are advisors who act as liaisons between the Rome City School District and the students of Rome Middle and Rome High.
Students may apply for the advisory council at the beginning of each school year by obtaining an application from their school or from the RCS website.
Members are chosen by a committee of Rome City Schools representatives based on the applicant's response to application questions.
At the conclusion of a student’s term on the council, the student is eligible for a Student Advisory Scholarship.
"I was impressed with the students' ability to share their concerns, while remaining true to who they are, and speaking on behalf of issues important to them," added Holland. "It is important to not only hear, but to listen, not only to listen but to learn, and not only to learn, but to seek solutions. I want to make sure we continue to listen to our kids."