It is easy to feel powerless as a young person today. We are in the middle of a global pandemic which we can’t control. There was a presidential election, but you couldn’t vote. Nationwide protests about racism and inequality are held and you can’t attend. Inequality exists in your classrooms and in your schools and you are frustrated. While you may be young, your voice matters and you deserve to be heard. You are not powerless.
Students in grades 7-12 from public schools in Western New York who are able to commit for the 2021–22 calendar year and have an interest in having their voices heard in transforming education in WNY.
Members participate in developing an annual agenda organized around their ideas and concerns related to equity in education. They identify priorities and goals, and engage in research projects, policy analysis, and the development of policy recommendations.
A Youth Alliance for Education leadership committee reviews applications and selects members from a variety of schools and districts.
With the support of GSE faculty, YAE will meet virtually beginning in September and shift to in-person meetings when public health guidelines allow. Transportation assistance will be available when the group is able to meet in person