Posted on 03/13/2017
On March 10, student leaders from FHSD’s high schools took part in the final Gateway2Change Student Summit on Race of the school year at St. Louis University. When Gateway2Change met last November, prominent local businesses and organizations outlined the challenges they face in the areas of social and cultural diversity and equity. During the summit, student leaders presented their ideas and solutions to these real-world problems.
“For me, I’ve had the chance to see a completely different world view,” said Francis Howell High School senior Lauren Jacquin. “I love the inclusivity; we are all working together to end racial barriers. It’s great to see students working together to make a difference!”
More than 350 high school students from 38 area high schools have participated, working with a sibling school over the last few months to collaborate on solutions and create presentations to address these challenges. Businesses and organizations participating in the summit include 1st Financial Credit Union, Build-A-Bear, Children’s Miracle Network, Edward Jones, Emerson, Monsanto and Mayor Francis Slay’s office.
“The students had a great year of learning problem-solving methods, collaborating with students from sibling schools, and engaging in courageous conversations around racial and equity issues that exist in our communities,” said Dr. Jennifer Tiller, Chief Academic Officer at EducationPlus. “This experience will give them the valuable skills to become agents of change within our community.”
Gateway2change Student Summits on Race are intended to inspire and motivate young people to become leaders for positive change in their local community. This unique approach helps young people engage in purposeful conversations about the social and cultural differences that exist within the St. Louis region.