Tonichia Gayle

“This project will allow student leaders to build a representative body to gather and promote proactive student voice — led by students for students. Gulfstream Academy serves approximately 1,500 Pre-K to 8th grade students. This will be the first initiative of its kind that bridges the elementary and secondary academic divide to bring a common, mindful culture to our Colts. The impact of this work will connect our students despite differences in age and experience as well as bridge communication between our students and school staff. Our student leaders will be trained in SEL focus areas of social awareness, self-awareness, self-management, responsible decision making, and relationship skills through bi-weekly meetings. They will then impart this knowledge on the student body through the "Conscious Colts Youth Forum." The Forum will have age-appropriate representation as focus groups, activities, and awareness campaigns are held to build mindful practices. For example, older 5th - 8th grade students will be trained to lead classroom learning sessions with younger students. Then, at culminating semester events, all ages will have an opportunity to speak and present through media, speech, and prepared manipulatives. These Community Forums are public meetings for student issues and passions to be raised before school decision makers. This is a pilot program for our school, therefore sponsors will guide students to create by-laws to design the opportunity. There is an expectation to host representatives from each grade, academic track (traditional, honors, English learners, exceptional education), leadership club, athletic team, and extracurricular (e.g. music, debate).”