In the bustling quads and buzzing classrooms of our beloved school, a multitude of voices clamor for attention, each bearing the aspirations of our diverse student body. From facility improvements to student equality, the challenges faced by our students are as varied as the subjects they study. In the heart of this vibrant hub of learning lies the School Site Council, a vital institution that plays a pivotal role in addressing these concerns and advocating for the best interests of Ayala students.
The School Site Council, often referred to as the SSC, is a group of students, teachers, parents, and school staff who come together to discuss and make decisions on various aspects of our school’s operation. These topics include budgets, finances, and school curriculum. It serves as a crucial bridge between the student body and the school administration, ensuring that the needs and opinions of students are not only heard but also acted upon.
Though recent attention has been drawn to the SSC due to a re-election of its representative, it is crucial to emphasize that the council’s role extends far beyond election events. While the election process serves as a reminder of the importance of effective student representation and democratic principles within our school community, the core function of the SSC is to actively engage with and address pressing issues faced by students. In fact, any student at Ayala has the opportunity to attend these meetings and speak out, not just the elected representative.
This year’s elected School Site Council representative, Chloe Kubeldis (12), touches on the purpose of the meetings, and expresses her own concerns as an encouragement to her peers to be involved in the shaping of the community.
“Initially I joined because I wanted to make sure that we could get a new sound system. It’s just cool seeing what we actually spend our money on,” Kubeldis said. “I realized that a lot of people just did not know what [School Site Council] was. I feel like students should be more involved in that and I’m going to try to encourage more people to show up to the meetings. Even if you’re not the student representative, you can still come and voice your opinions.”
The School Site Council’s responsibilities have a far reach past elections, as well. They engage in discussions and decision-making on matters ranging from curriculum enhancements to school facilities improvements. These meetings can have a lasting impact on our educational experience and the environment in which students learn and grow. Therefore, it is important to acknowledge that such an opportunity exists for students. While there may be issues around the school, the student body has the chance to make changes and have a voice through the School Site Council.
Dawn Sevillano, one of Ayala’s Assistant Principal’s secretaries, is involved in this meeting and depicts the agenda and process of the School Site Council’s meetings and elections for further information on the topic.
“For the election process, we hold nominations and voting for different classifications: parents/community members, students, teachers, and classified staff members. The elected student’s role is the same as the other members: to look at data, discuss, and vote on how to meet our goals,” Sevillano said. “We try to meet the goals of the SPSA (School Plan for Student Achievement). There is a set agenda given out by the school district that the meetings follow, monitor, and report on. There are four meetings per school year with a set agenda.”
She seconds Kubeldis’ motion in encouraging students to participate, saying “It’s important for students to understand the reasons behind decisions being made in their education.”
In the grand tapestry of our school’s life, the School Site Council represents a vital thread, weaving together the diverse interests and aspirations of our student body. The recent re-election, while a unique chapter in our school’s history, serves as a testament to the commitment of our students to shape a better future for themselves and those who will follow in their footsteps. As we move forward, the Student Site Council continues to stand as a beacon of hope and change, championing the voices of our students and making our school a better place for all.
