The decisions in this school are made by the school’s administration, not by the students who these decisions directly affect. Student Voice Committee is a club here at Back of the Yards. Its goal is to give students power by allowing them to voice their opinions on decisions being made in the school or in their community. Together, they want to create positive changes.

Student Voice Committee meets every Wednesday after school in room 334 where they discuss various topics such as supporting the Dreamers and Allies club here at BOYCP, talking about immigration, and various causes that affect their lives. While these discussions are going on, the members of the club all have a voice, and everyone is included so that they share their ideas. When one of the faculty members, Ms. Singh, was asked if she felt that the club’s voice was heard, she responded with, “I think that we are really lucky to be in a school where student’s voice is very valued by teachers, administration, and by fellow students.” Then, Ms. Singh spoke about how the members wanted to focus on mental health and school safety. She believes that when they present a solution based off of their data, their voices and opinions will be heard and valued. Student Voice Committee has recently attended the Board of Education meeting and according to Veronica Rodriguez, a member of Student Voice Committee, after meeting with the Chicago Board of Education, the Chicago Board of Education declared to give back 40% of the X amount of money that they have cut from school funding.

Veronica Rodriguez does not only voice her opinions and beliefs here at BOYCP, but she also voices them when she was given the chance to at rallies outside school walls. These rallies are very informative and inspiring to her, and they motivate her to learn more about the topic itself. Her passion shows that BOYCP students are determined to make a change with their power.

– Abigail Duarte & Josephine Sulls