Student Programs
Schools across the country are increasingly investing in community engagement + social entrepreneurship efforts that address systemic injustice. We recognize that young people have the capacity to be a force for change in tackling issues of inequality, systemic racism, and marginalization in their own communities and they need a platform to scale up their efforts.
PSPP is uniquely positioned to connect students + educators to create large-scale, impactful change by building authentic and meaningful relationships through a program that encourages innovative thinking and youth empowerment.
Students in Partnership: The Equitable Schools Project is a groundbreaking partnership between PSPP and public, charter + independent schools that have demonstrated a commitment to civic engagement.
In June 2021, PSPP brought together a geographically + demographically diverse coalition of students and educators to launch the program. The Equitable Schools Project builds sustainable partnerships, fosters social responsibility + encourages student agency on social justice issues.
Every summer, participants convene for a 5-day symposium led by PSPP facilitators. Over the course of the week, participants collaboratively design projects that steward social justice and create more equitable schools. Following the summer, the students implement the project in their schools and communities and their work will be showcased at the PSPP Annual Conference.
Framing Questions
Equitable Schools Project students weighed in on their understanding of equity and attributes of changemakers. These exercises offered insights into the range of perspectives held by student participants.
The Equitable Schools Project Framework
Educate.
Students learn about the historic roots of educational inequity by hearing from experts + leaders in the field to learn about gaps, opportunities + bright spots. Throughout the Project, they share + reflect on their
own experiences in school.
Innovate.
The Equitable Schools Project participants will hear a wide range of ideas + perspectives during the program. Ultimately, they will collaboratively design a project that increases equity and can be implemented in their own schools. The students will be able to define the scope of their project but they will need to ensure their goals are achievable + sustainable.
Advocate.
Upon return to campus, students will implement projects that increase equity. Equitable Schools Project participants will have the opportunity to present their projects at the annual PSPP Conference + other relevant events (ie NAIS Conference, partner school Board meetings, assemblies, affinity groups).
Frequently Asked Questions
How many schools will take part in the Equitable Schools Project this summer?
We will have 4-5 schools join us for our 2021 pilot program. Our partner schools will include independent and charter schools. We plan to expand the number of partner schools for 2022.
How can my school join the Equitable Schools Project?
If you are interested to take part in Summer 2021, email catherine@thepspp.org for more information.
Who leads the Equitable Schools Project?
The Project will be facilitated by Catherine Pearson + Willie Adams, educators who have backgrounds in advocacy training + multicultural education.
My school participated, now what?
All Project participants, students + faculty advisors, will be invited to attend the PSPP Annual Conference to share about their work and ongoing projects. There will also be dedicated + sustained support during the following school year from PSPP facilitators.
What are the program dates + time?
The program will take place from June 21-25, 2021. This summer’s programming will be virtual (via Zoom) and will take place in mid-afternoon for students on the East Coast and mid-morning for students on the West Coast/Hawaii.
How has COVID-19 impacted the program? What are your plans for 2022?
Due to the uncertainty of COVID and restrictions on traveling and gathering, we will convene virtually for our pilot program in June 2021. In 2022, we will gather in-person at one of our partner schools for five days of programming.