Students tell board their mental‑health roundtables led to a district awareness day

Student leaders from across Chicago told the Board of Education how participation in Student Voice Committees shaped district policy and helped create a district‑wide mental health awareness day.

"We shared our experiences and recommendations directly with district leaders," said Trinity, a 2026 Morgan Park High School graduate, who described three student‑led mental health roundtables in 2025–26 and urged more grief resources after gun violence. Board members thanked student speakers and several pledged further engagement: "You are the reason why we are here," CEO Dr. King told students, and multiple board members encouraged continued student partnership and promised to seek ways for increased student agency in local budget discussions.

Students also described organizing for 'peace rooms' and local restorative supports; several youth leaders said they want principals and network chiefs to be responsive when students raise safety and support concerns.