The Mountain View School District’s Superintendent’s Student Advisory Council (SSAC) held its second meeting of the 2024-2025 school year on Jan. 16, showcasing the continued efforts of local students from grades 5 through 8 to take active roles in improving their academic environments and communities. Now in its third year, the SSAC has proven to be an important platform for fostering youth leadership and initiative within the district.
Superintendent Dr. Raymond Andry initiated the gathering with a reflective exercise called “Your Leadership Story.” Students were encouraged to introspect and discuss their values, inspirations, aspirations, and reasons for joining the SSAC. “This exercise allowed students to reflect deeply on their values and motivations, fostering a sense of purpose and connection among the group,” Dr. Andry explained. “It’s clear that these young leaders are committed to making a meaningful impact.”
This personal reflection session set the stage for a SWOB (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Barriers) analysis of their respective schools. The stories shared highlighted the diverse backgrounds and challenges students face, bringing a rich perspective to their analyses of school environments.
Associate Superintendent of Business and Strategic Planning, Dr. Darrin De Knikker, noted the depth of the students’ discussions. “This group is incredibly thoughtful and reflective,” he said. “The discussions about their schools’ strengths and areas for improvement were enriched by their understanding of what matters most to them and their peers.”
The council, which meets five times annually, emphasizes developing crucial leadership skills such as public speaking, team building, and strategic planning. Their ongoing SWOB analysis is set to culminate in recommendations to the Board of Education and District departments, aiming to bring about tangible improvements in the schools.
Past initiatives by the SSAC have included modifications to lunch menu options and student uniform policies. This school year, the council looks forward to tackling new issues that impact their schools and peers.
Parallel to the SSAC, the Superintendent’s Parent Advisory Council (SPAC) also recommenced this year, focusing on promoting parental involvement and fostering dialogue between families and the district. Several parent representatives have returned for a second year, underscoring their commitment to collaborative community improvement.
These advisory groups reflect a broader effort in the Mountain View School District to engage students and parents alike in the governance and betterment of their educational settings. As Dr. Andry and his teams continue these initiatives, they underscore a commitment to nurturing leadership and participatory democracy from an early age, ensuring that both student and parental voices are integral to shaping the educational landscape in El Monte, South El Monte, Baldwin Park, Rosemead, and Irwindale.
