In our work with students, we sometimes forget to provide them a voice into what we do with and for them every day. Due to some excellent art teachers, we have been able to change the look of our entryway and our commons/cafeteria to show off student work and students in action.
Our library became a place that students helped to design and enjoy coming to at all hours of the school day, and even before and after school.
Our students are also able to express their thoughts and ideas with me as part of a Principal's Advisory Team. We meet monthly to discuss what is going well, and what isn't, and to allow them to help guide the decisions that we make.
One other thing that is bigger for me than it might be for the students is my ability to be with all of the students for lunch and lunch recess. It has become an integral part of my day and I cherish the time I am able to spend with the students, walking around and speaking with them, and being their referee when needed. I learn an awful lot about the kids by watching them interact at lunch and on the playground.
