The purpose of this resource is to empower students in Grades 4 through 12 to get involved in the design, planning and decision-making processes that can make their local streets safer and more inviting for walking and wheeling to school.
Description
Students work together to identify and research the local active travel issues and safety concerns that matter to them most. Then they advocate to municipal decision-makers for solutions that address these challenges through letters, presentations, petitions etc.
Given the opportunity, students have lots to say about transportation conditions in their neighbourhood and can be an influential voice for change. Civic engagement is also a valuable learning experience for students who will develop knowledge and skills in advocating for change, while also providing unique perspectives on school travel.
There are different ways to involve and empower students. For example:
- Form a student committee or club focusing on promoting active school travel
- Work with an existing committee with overlapping goals (e.g., EcoTeam or Student Leadership Club)
- Create a classroom project focused on active school travel
Ideally, involve students of different ages so that older students can act as role models, while younger students help keep the initiative going once the older students graduate.
What you will need
- Paper/whiteboard/smart board for taking notes
- Computers for research
- Snacks (optional; especially important if meetings will take place during lunch hour)
- List of municipal and/or school board contacts, depending on the issue
Who can help
Students, teachers, school council members, principals, public health nurses, elected officials, and municipal and school board staff.
Key words
Advocate, idea, plan, student, leader, volunteer, civic, engage.