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Student Summits

Within our equity framework, D219 values identity exploration within shared spaces to contribute to positive outcomes for all students. By creating student summit events within this framework, D219 is taking specific actions to strengthen our learning environment, facilitate student agency, and examine possibilities for change.D219 is home to students who represent 83 birth countries and make up a tapestry of diverse identities. We are committed to increasing student belonging, empowerment, and overall success as part of our equity framework. To truly empower our students in the development of their critical consciousness around identity, student events must be student-initiated and adult-supported.  

 

The Student Summit Experience

Student summit events create and support spaces for historically marginalized and underrepresented groups to explore issues of racial equity and justice through:

  • Awareness - developing a capacity to notice the needs of self and others

  • Empathy - understanding who we are and equally valuing others as we value ourselves 

  • Solidarity - cultivating a community of belonging for every student through a collective reflection on systems of oppression

Aligning with the District Mission

D219 gathers both quantitative and qualitative information to respond to student needs and establish the framework for student summits. This includes student surveys, achievement and discipline data, student club discussions, and informal feedback outlets.

The equity framework for student summits aligns with the D219 Mission, Values and Vision as outlined by the Board of Education. We will continue to acknowledge and honor intersectionalities of the groups that have the opportunity to participate in student summits. Summit organizers (students and staff) will customize and adapt the approach for each event to ensure an inclusive environment, where participants feel heard and valued.

Staff members who were part of planning the Latinx Student Summit smile together as they reflect on the summit's success.

 

 

"It was really great, empowering, and I feel that the
joy that was experienced within that day vibrated
throughout the district for days after."

Jessica Garcia
Science teacher, Niles North

Nuestra cultura, nuestro poder- Our culture, our power

D219 students organized a Latinx Student Summit in October 2024.
The event featured a keynote speaker, educational workshops, a Mariachi band, dance and more.

Students participate in an educational workshop as part of the Latinx Student Summit.
Students celebrating current and new friendships at the Latinx Student Summit.
A student holds up her drawing tied to her identity in an educational workshop as part of the Latinx Student Summit.
Yosimar Reyes, a Mexican poet, sharing his journey as part of his keynote speech at this year's Latinx Student Summit.
Students celebrate with traditional dances at the closing part of the Latinx Student Summt.
Staff members who were part of planning the Latinx Student Summit smile with keynote speaker and Mexican poet, Yosimar Reyes.
Students and staff take pride in their culture and community as they hold a banner representing Latinx countries as part of the Latinx Student Summit.
Three Latinx students generate excitement for the very first Latinx Student Summit at the morning opening ceremony.