Freshmen students present My Voice Project addressing academic evaluation concerns

During the Oak Park - River Forest School District 200 Regular Board of Education Meeting on April 24, 2025, students showcased their innovative projects as part of the My Voice Project, a key component of the freshman English curriculum. This initiative encourages students to identify pressing issues and propose solutions, mirroring the format of TED talks.

English teacher Mr. Brown introduced three freshmen—Zadey Pullman, Sara Luczynski Gonzalez, and another student—who presented their findings through engaging Canva presentations. Each student highlighted a specific problem they are passionate about, conducted thorough research, and proposed novel solutions.

Zadey Cohen, one of the presenters, opened the session by discussing the role of grades as a measure of academic achievement. This focus on student-led discussions not only empowers young voices but also fosters critical thinking and problem-solving skills among the students.

The board meeting underscored the importance of student engagement in educational processes, showcasing how the district is committed to nurturing the next generation of thinkers and leaders. As these students continue to explore and address real-world issues, their contributions are expected to inspire their peers and enrich the community dialogue around education and social responsibility.