Students take action

What’s been happening

Across America, students are stepping out of classrooms and into the real world, utilizing their collective voices to effect changes they wish to see.

In Florida, the student-driven "Walkout 2 Learn" protest brought together pupils from over 300 schools in opposition to the Parental Rights in Education Law, colloquially known as the "Don't Say Gay Bill", and two additional laws—the Individual Freedom Act and the prohibition of DEI programs in state colleges. These young protesters argue that these regulations stifle discussion on race, sexuality, and gender, and are advocating for more inclusivity.

Meanwhile, Texas students, jolted into action by recent mass shootings, have united in demanding comprehensive gun control policies. No longer satisfied with the recurring cycle of tragedy and platitudes, they are calling for concrete changes, with some specifically advocating for a bill aiming to increase the age limit for purchasing semi-automatic rifles.

In Montana, sixteen young environmentalists recently had their day in court. They argued that state officials have disregarded scientific evidence and exacerbated climate change by promoting fossil fuels, violating the right to a clean environment guaranteed by the state’s constitution.

While these protests have been making headlines, a notable demonstration of student resolve was displayed a bit more quietly in Fort Wayne, Indiana. There, in response to their high school's cancellation of a play featuring LGBTQ+ themes due to parental complaints, Sydney Knipp, aged 16, and her 14-year-old sister Fia, decided to stage the play themselves. Despite adversity, they successfully performed "Marian, or The True Tale of Robin Hood" at an outdoor theater, attended by a crowd of 1,500 people.

Some context

These examples of youth activism are part of a part of a broader trend that includes large movements like Fridays For Future and March for Our Lives, as well as groups focused on recruiting and mentoring candidates for office like conservative-leaning Run GenZ. Across the world, young people, no longer content to be bystanders, are acting on issues close to their hearts.

Future Possibilities

So, what might this mean for 2035?

1. Education Evolution: As this generation climbs the ladder, expect big changes in in what is taught, how it is taught, and the relationships between learners and educators.

2. The Rise of Youth Power: If the current trend of student activism continues, the voices of our young people could well dominate policymaking by 2036, leading to significant change in how we govern schools and communities.

3. Societal Makeover: This early activism could shape a society that's more inclusive, more equitable, and safer for all, regardless of their race, gender, sexual orientation, or even views on gun control.

Yes, but . . .

As political division in America grows, the energetic activism of young people might be dismissed as biased political talk in a society that is becoming more split. This could limit their ability to influence others and shape policy. Moreover, the digital divide and other barriers to participation threatens to mute the voices of young people from disadvantaged backgrounds.

Food for Thought

This wave of student activism presents an opportunity for educators to rethink their approach to engaging with young people around civic participation. Here are some important questions to consider:

1. Student-Educator Partnerships: How might educators foster an environment where students feel their voices are valued and heard? What current (student councils, for example) and new mechanisms might enable students to participate in decision-making processes?

2. Supporting Civic Engagement: How might civics education be enhanced to include more real-world examples and engagement? How can students be encouraged to voice their opinions, engage in constructive dialogues, and participate in community actions in a safe and supportive environment? Might educators act as facilitators or mentors, providing guidance while allowing students to lead the way? What new skills, knowledge, and wisdom will educators need in this new context?

3. Adapting to Student Needs: How might educators evolve teaching methodologies and curricula to better meet the changing needs and expectations of this generation of students?

4. Ensuring All Voices are Heard: As digital tools become more essential to civic participation, how might schools work with communities to ensure that all young voices are heard equally, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds?

Help us learn

Please share your thoughts, questions, experiences worries and hopes by commenting below. We want to learn from and with you as we explore possible futures and their implications for education today.

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Generative AI Disclosure

Chat GPT provided feedback on early drafts and so helped us clarify our thinking. We used Bing Image Generator to create the image.