We have heard from many teachers that they feel disconnected from students, that connections are strained, and that student support needs are growing as we all recover from the pandemic. Thanks to a grant from the Farash Foundation’s Teacher Pipeline Innovation Project grant, Children’s Institute’s Youth Leadership Council will be using their voice, expertise, and leadership to help improve teacher retention in our area.

Given the importance of relationships, the council has been working to create resources and trainings that help build caring and supportive relationships among teachers and students. This amazing group of youth leaders will create opportunities intended to support educators in feeling a greater sense of efficacy, confidence, and connection to why they went into the teaching profession. By serving as guest lecturers at the Warner School of Education at the University of Rochester, planning events for pre-service teachers, and delivering trainings at school districts across the region, these young people will help educators learn new ways to develop a greater sense of connection with their students.

Since October 2022, the Youth Leadership Council has:  

• Attended, planned, and co-facilitated bi-weekly meetings, focused on learning about teacher retention, building relationships, goal setting, and planning, all while developing their social and emotional learning skills.
• Begun partnering with the Warner School of Education at the University of Rochester to further explore ways to support pre-service teachers. Special thanks to Dr. Kristen Love, and Dr. Eleni Duret for their support.
• Participated in two retreats to strategically plan for the development of resources and professional learning opportunities.  

In the months to come, these young leaders will finalize the development of key resources and professional learning experiences for current and pre-service teachers, all with the goal of improving teacher retention.

For more information, check our website, newsletter, and social media platforms for upcoming events, resources, and updates on the group’s phenomenal work.

Thank you to all our amazing youth leaders, Armani, Marisa, Malaz, Janiah, Jacob, Silas, Akeem, Aimei, Cynthia, Kiona, and Zyiona.

Youth Voice Matters!