Create a Student Relations Team. Create a team of student representatives who meet with you
each month to discuss issues and concerns, similar to the staff relations team. Involve them in
establishing school rules and planning special events. Encourage them to take ownership of
their ideas and decisions.
Student Communication. Establish a student newspaper. Publish a book of student poetry or
creative writing. Encourage students to communicate through both the written and spoken word.
Students can also take an active role with the daily announcements. These can be done using
video or audio. Let the media classes have an active part in the production. Such student
involvement is characteristic of Halifax County High School in South Boston, Virginia.
New Student Orientation. Just as you involve veteran staff in welcoming new staff members,
involve students in creating an orientation program for new students. Put together a student
survival kit and set up a buddy system to make new students feel a part of the school.