February 9, 2023 -- Rome City Schools hosted it's second meeting of the Superintendent's Student Advisory Council (SSAC) Wednesday.
The students that make up the Student Advisory Council operate as the voice of the student bodies at Rome Middle and High Schools. The Council members were selected based on a number of criteria to serve as representatives and advocates for their fellow students. At monthly meetings, they share concerns they have gathered with Superintendent Dr. Eric L. Holland as well as Central Office directors and staff members and form solutions to take back to their respective student bodies.
Each meeting is centered around a specific topic. Wednesday's was focused on SSAC members collaborating with district leaders and peers, reviewing, reimagining and sharing ideas in reference to the RCS district-wide mission/vision statement. The purpose: to build background knowledge to assist students in understanding the development of a mission/vision statement. This understanding will prove useful as the members prepare to create a mission and vision statement for the SSAC.
"It is important for us as district leaders to listen to the voices of our students. They are the reason we are here, and their feedback helps guide us make decisions that will benefit them," said Holland.
The meeting was a testament to the importance of student feedback in decision-making processes. The members presented about a range of topics; from school safety to the need for more extracurricular activities.
"Student feedback is crucial in creating a better school district. We want to ensure that our students feel heard and that their perspectives are taken into consideration," Holland noted. Adding, "we are committed to creating a school district that puts students first, and the Student Advisory Council is one way we can achieve that goal."
The next meeting of the Superintendent's Student Advisory Council will take place March 8 at the Rome High School College and Career Academy.