On Thursday 12/11 the student government held its first debate for change, an event where students not in student government were able to debate school issues that they felt were important regarding the school and how it was run. 

The students were given 4 questions:

Should schools be banning phones? What are the advantages and drawbacks to the ban, and what is the best way to address the ban and follow the law?

Would you rather attend a school that pushes you to your limits or focuses on your wellbeing?

Are schools teaching students to succeed or to take tests?

Would you prefer a school that focuses on safety measures or educational programs?

There were students at each of the 4 tables who were experts on these issues and helped to facilitate the debate while other students rotated so that every student who came could discuss each question. 

From Mr. Sean Fitzsimons, the teacher advisor for student government: “Student government is supposed to be listening to what students want and also affecting positive change. This is an organized way to get students’ feedback in a less formal environment”

While the event had fewer students than anticipated, it was still highly successful; all students at each table were debating their topics in highly intelligent and nuanced ways, no two arguments I heard were the same. 

This is hopefully the first of many such events. The student government hopes to hear the student population’s voice and take it into consideration if possible. If you would like to be able to contribute to conversations like these come to the next event. Sign ups will be in the library when a date is announced!