Students Take the Lead in Solving School Challenges

An example of continuous improvement through survey feedback

At our schools, we believe students should have a voice in making positive changes. One example is how we’re tackling school cleanliness.

In student surveys from 2023 and 2024, many rated school cleanliness lower than expected. To understand why, district administrators invited students to participate in focus groups. Students’ insights were enlightening. They noted common issues like littering in shared spaces, messy bathroom habits, and a lack of awareness about the hard work custodians do each day.

When asked how to improve cleanliness, some students suggested more adult intervention. However, through discussions and empathy interviews with custodians, students realized the importance of taking responsibility for their school environment.

Working together, students and staff developed solutions, including:

• Student-led cleanliness campaigns to promote responsibility
• Incentive programs to align with the schools’ Positive Behavior Intervention and Support (PBIS)
• Signage to create awareness and expectations on keeping shared spaces clean
• Acknowledgment and appreciation for custodial staff
• Better maintenance strategies for bathrooms and high-traffic areas

“By giving students a role in solving real problems, we empower them to take responsibility and build pride in their school community,” said Superintendent Shelly Viramontez. “With these new initiatives, we expect to see a cleaner, more respectful environment that benefits everyone.”

Want to support these efforts at home? Encourage your child to take responsibility for their surroundings and appreciate those who help maintain them.