From Listening to Action: How School District 78 is Advancing Equity Through Student-Led Dialogue
What happens when students move from being consulted to being co-creators of change?
That’s the question at the heart of our latest case study featuring School District 78 Fraser-Cascade, a rural and diverse district in British Columbia committed to Truth and Reconciliation, equity, and inclusion.
In 2024, the District set out to strengthen its anti-discrimination policies — but they didn’t stop at staff consultations. Instead, they partnered with Thrive & Connect, Fraser Health, and other community leaders to design and facilitate a student-led process rooted in open dialogue, shared learning, and meaningful engagement.
The result? Over 25 at-risk students gathered to explore topics like identity, belonging, racism, and community accountability — offering honest reflections and bold ideas for the future of their schools. Alongside key partners like the Indigenous Education Department and Hope Inclusion Project, this project helped surface the lived experiences of students who are too often unheard in formal decision-making.
From professional development workshops to co-created forums and feedback sessions, this initiative created space for students and educators to move from listening to action.
If you're a school district, educator, or community leader wondering how to meaningfully engage youth in shaping inclusive systems this case study offers a clear and inspiring example.