The Higley Unified School District is giving students a seat at the superintendent's table with the Superintendent’s Student Advisory Council, a new program designed to provide a platform for students to share insights on curriculum, programs, and policies that support the district’s Portrait of a Graduate pillars.   

The Student Advisory Council provides a powerful avenue for meaningful student input and a deeper connection between our students and district initiatives.  

Makayla, a Williams Field High School student, shared her thoughts on the goals of this program.  

“I think it’s super cool that students are getting a voice to explain what they see in the schools because a lot of times, adults have the final say in most things, which is valid,” she said. “But students have a say, too, and it’s cool to know that our voices are validated.”   

To ensure a diverse range of perspectives, participants from grades 6-12 were carefully selected by their school principals. These students were chosen for their strong understanding of the Portrait of a Graduate and their enthusiasm for shaping the district’s future.  

Hugo, a student at Centennial Elementary, shared his thoughts on his involvement in the program.  

“Being part of this program is like being a leader for your school,” he said. “It’s a very important job. We find all the ways every school benefits us, and we find what needs some fixing and what doesn’t need fixing.”   

In the spring semester, participants also had the opportunity to visit Chandler-Gilbert Community College and Arizona State University, where they experienced a college environment firsthand, learned about campus operations, toured career facilities in various fields including aviation, and gained inspiration for their own academic and leadership growth.  

By combining leadership development with real-world applications, the Superintendent’s Student Advisory Council empowers students to grow as influential leaders ready to make a meaningful impact on their school communities and beyond, according to the district. 

Those interested in learning more about HUSD’s Strategic Plan can click here.