The Student Advisory Board (SAB) facilitates connections between students and administrators in efforts to be inclusive of the entire WJ community. Members of the club work alongside Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Instructional Coordinator Allison Hoefling to create solutions for students’ concerns.
The SAB started in the spring of 2022 from a concern introduced in study circles (a two-day retreat here at WJ) of lack of student voices in school administration, especially of minority students.
“Students expressed ideas and concerns that they had during the two-day retreat and we wanted to create a space where students could voice their opinions and ideas about things here at school and advocate for student concerns,” Hoefling said.
The SAB creates an inclusive environment by organizing its international week, which is hosted in February annually. This week-long celebration allows culture and heritage clubs to showcase their culture and gives students the opportunity to learn about new customs and traditions.
“International week is really special to celebrate the diversity at WJ because different cultures get featured throughout the week, having a different region highlighted everyday, then ending with a cultural showcase on the last day,” SAB co-sponsor Dr. Katharina Matro said. “We have planned two international weeks so far, and we want to keep it going in the coming years.”
Despite only being around for a little over two years, the sponsors and members have successfully completed numerous projects aimed at voicing student concerns and issues and creating an inclusive WJ environment.
Members of SAB have coordinated events such as the club fair at the beginning of the year, the AP/elective fair in early winter and the clap out for former Principal Jennifer Baker.
“They have also led teacher professional development trainings and participated in summer Instructional Leadership Team meetings with staff and parents to discuss issues surrounding equity here at WJ,” Hoefling said.
The work that the SAB does is not limited to WJ, as members were involved in helping create a training program for middle-schoolers.
“This past spring, SAB members interviewed WJ students who have been impacted by hate speech to create a video for an anti-hate speech training program for Tilden Middle School,” Matro said.
Members work alongside sponsors Hoefling and Matro at WJ SAB meetings addressing issues and other duties of the group, which can be a valuable opportunity for anyone.
“We get to brainstorm ideas and really listen to what students have to say. It’s super fun working together, and I’ve made some great friends along the way and built closer relationships with the staff involved. Plus, knowing that we’re all having a say in decisions that affect our school makes it even more meaningful and interesting,” senior Essil Ezzoug said.
The Student Advisory Board looks forward to the upcoming year, exploring possible projects and areas of improvement within the school.
“SAB will continue to work to ensure access to and support for all students in higher level courses as well as support administration and staff any way we can as things come up through the year,” Hoefling said. “We also are planning to work with clubs and student groups to facilitate activities throughout the school year that highlight our culture and diversity here at WJ.”
