Superintendent’s Student Advisory Council

Lead and Be Heard: A Seat at the Table with the Superintendent

In Milwaukee Public Schools, student voice is more than just a concept—it’s a leadership strategy. Through the Superintendent’s Student Advisory Council (SSAC), high school students from across the district regularly meet with the Superintendent to share genuine insights into school culture, policies, and priorities. This council serves as a structured, district-wide platform for student voice, providing district leaders with access to perspectives that are often unheard but are crucial for meaningful improvement. By actively engaging with the SSAC, MPS leaders can build stronger relationships with students, make better-informed decisions, and foster a culture where students see themselves as valued partners in shaping their educational experience. Empowering student voice isn’t extra work; it’s smart, visionary leadership.

So, are you ready to make your voice heard and help shape the future of Milwaukee Public Schools? Join the Superintendent’s Student Advisory Council (SSAC), where student leaders like you meet directly with the Superintendent monthly to share ideas, raise concerns, and help improve your school experience. As an SSAC member, you’ll connect with students from across MPS, develop leadership skills, and participate in real conversations that drive change. If you’re passionate about making a difference, SSAC is your chance to be heard, be valued, and lead. Your seat at the table is waiting.

Here’s what some of our SSAC members are saying about their SSAC experience:

The SSAC: Investing in our Future

The Superintendent's Student Advisory Council (SSAC) comprises student representatives from each high school in the district. The council's goal is to create meaningful dialogue between students and the Superintendent, providing a platform for them to share their views and perspectives. Members of the SSAC are tasked with advocating for all students.

About the SSAC

Students in grades 10-12 are eligible to become members and must be willing to serve on their school's leadership council. Those participating in the SSAC will facilitate communication between their school and the district.

Purpose

The SSAC aims to gather feedback from the Superintendent and senior staff members on how the District can enhance students' experiences in our schools. It also serves as a platform for two-way communication between the Superintendent and the students.

Members' Role

We define our role as members to include:

• Communicate honestly, openly, and directly with the Superintendent and other administrators
• Encourage student engagement throughout their school
• Quality education for every student
• Welcoming inclusive, non-threatening school culture
• Work collaboratively to help create a student culture of mutual respect
• Provide feedback for improving the high school experience for all students

Five Guiding Anchors of the SSAC

• Engaging in meaningful dialogue by sharing students' views and perspectives with school leaders, administration, and the school board.
• Creating an atmosphere where students are valued for honest and focused feedback.
• Empowering our youth with the tools, knowledge, and experience needed to be successful leaders.
• Providing students with a sense of trust and belonging by changing the culture of their respective schools.
• Sharing ideas to promote equity among all high schools in the district.

Structure and Alignment

The SSAC consists of students from each MPS high school. It is led by elected officers nominated and selected by the membership. Students are selected to achieve academic, socio-economic, and cultural diversity among members. The alumni and student engagement associate will serve as the SSAC advisor.

Superintendent's Luncheons and Honor Cords

The Superintendent meets with students at their schools to have an informal conversation about how to improve the culture and climate. SSAC members host the event, selecting 10-12 of their peers to join them. This small group format allows the Superintendent to learn more about the needs of each school. The process also allows students to organize, manage, and demonstrate leadership skills. During these luncheons, the Superintendent ensures that all schools are working with their Student Council representatives to give students a voice at their school, providing clear and direct communication from the student council to the SSAC, the Superintendent, and the MPS School Board.

"Honor Cords are given to graduating students who have shown unwavering commitment to serving as ambassadors for Milwaukee Public Schools. These graduates represent student voices for their schools and act as a bridge between their schools and the superintendent."

Frequently Asked Questions