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Student representative tells board lack of school spirit, belonging and finals stress are top concerns; peer mediation expanded
Summary
Student representative Harley reported student feedback emphasizing belonging, school spirit, mental‑health supports and pressure from finals. Board members praised the report and encouraged continuing advisory time and student leadership.
Student representative Harley presented findings from student conversations and an advisory group, telling the Orting School District board that students raised concerns about belonging, limited school spirit, and the stress of finals and post‑graduation planning.
Harley said students described belonging in terms of being loved, welcomed, supported and invited, and that many felt school spirit is low because of fear of social judgment in a small community. Students told Harley they would like more opportunities for individualized recognition and more invitation to participate in school events to overcome reputational limits from childhood.
Peer mediation and counseling: The superintendent and staff reported the peer mediation program trained more than 30 students this year and continues to grow. Harley and board members also discussed students’ uncertainty about counseling resources; students report trusting teachers first and advised the district to make counseling services and career supports more visible.
Why it matters: Board members said the report is "brain food" for policy and budget discussions, and encouraged Harley to continue asking students for feedback. Directors suggested structured advisory time and a student leadership role in promotion to increase awareness of programs and extracurricular opportunities.
Ending: Board members thanked Harley for an "authentic" report and encouraged continued student engagement in planning assemblies, spirit efforts and advisory activities.
