SOUTHWEST CONFERENCE “WITH HEART” STUDENT SUMMIT AIMS TO BUILD SAFE, INCLUSIVE SCHOOL CULTURE
Now more than ever, it is critical for young people to develop self-awareness, find their voices, and lead the charge in building a better tomorrow where communities are united and purposeful in creating and sustaining welcoming environments that are inclusive of everyone. This is the premise of the Student Respect and Kindness Summit being coordinated by Olmsted Falls City School District and the seven other member districts that comprise the Southwest Conference, including Amherst Exempted Village Schools, Avon Local School District, Avon Lake City Schools, Berea City School District, Elyria City School District, Midview Schools, and North Ridgeville City Schools.
Each district has selected middle and high school students to attend the summit. The high school summit will take place on March 14 while the middle school summit will occur on April 29 at Lorain County Community College. Students will gather and connect with peers to explore how they can create a positive school environment that is respectful of all cultures.
“I’m excited for the opportunity for our Berea-Midpark students to participate with students from across the Southwest Conference. It will give our students an opportunity to learn the tools and skills that they need to be change agents in our schools and communities,” said Berea City Schools Superintendent Tracy Wheeler. “This is another great example of how we provide opportunities for our students in order to provide them with well-rounded experiences.”
The summit will be led by James Knight of James Knight Consulting. He is an author, coach and speaker who works to assist others in building safe environments where everyone can thrive and bring their best selves. The summit’s topics include Culture by Design, If These Halls Could Talk, and Agents of Change, and will wrap up with a closeout session where students reflect on the key takeaways and discuss what they hope to implement in their school culture.