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Sixth‑grader and teachers describe student‑led conferences at Cherokee Elementary
Summary
At the Lakota Local Board meeting, Cherokee Elementary teachers and a sixth‑grade student outlined a student‑led conference model piloted in fall 2024 that places students in charge of conferences using portfolios; parents rated the format positively and teachers said it changed instruction.
Camden Lanzarada, a sixth‑grade student at Cherokee Elementary, told the Lakota Local Board of Education on March 23 that student‑led conferences ‘‘allowed me to express my own feelings about school’’ and made conferences less stressful.
Rory Smith, a sixth‑grade teacher and team lead at Cherokee, explained the model the school piloted in fall 2024: students compile portfolios of test scores, grades and reflections and then lead family conferences in the cafeteria while teachers rotate to answer specific questions. Smith said the approach ‘‘encourages students to take ownership of their learning, provide meaningful communication, and reflect on their academic progress.’’
The district said about 82% of families rated the experience a 9 or 10, describing increased student ownership and more meaningful communication. Camden told the board that preparing and presenting his portfolio helped him reflect on his work and ‘‘build on that and make it stronger’’ between class days. Teacher Sam Englebert said having students lead conferences helped him see where classroom discussions were meaningful and where instruction needed adjustment.
Camden’s mother, Dawn Lanzarada, described the model as a turning point for her son: ‘‘He took the driver’s seat. He became the narrator of his own progress rather than a passive recipient of feedback.’’ Dawn credited the teachers and the district’s support for teacher autonomy in making the innovation possible.
Board members asked follow‑up questions about how students choose portfolio items and how conferences influence instruction. Teachers said portfolios include achievement evidence and behavioral notes teachers record, and that conferences enable quick, targeted problem solving between student, parent and teacher. The board thanked the presenters and invited Cherokee staff and Camden for a group photo after the presentation.
The district did not take action on the presentation itself. The board continues to highlight student achievement at every meeting and may revisit program expansion or evaluation in committee sessions.
