Superintendent's Student Advisory Council
The Superintendent's Student Advisory Council (S.S.A.C.) is a district-level committee composed of students in grades 9-12. The council serves as a forum for open dialogue, student voice, and direct feedback to the Superintendent. Through thoughtful discussion and collaboration, students help identify opportunities to improve the educational experience for all learners while providing insight into district priorities and initiatives.
Purpose
The purpose of the S.S.A.C. is to strengthen the student experience by providing the Superintendent and district leaders with meaningful student perspectives. The council promotes two-way communication between district leadership and students, helping ensure that student voices are heard, valued, and considered in district decision-making.
Meetings
The council meets periodically with the Superintendent to discuss issues, opportunities, and ideas that impact students and schools. Members are expected to represent their peers' perspectives and help foster productive conversations about the future of Austin Public Schools.
2026-2027 S.S.A.C. Focus Area
Student Communication and Voice
- How can students and staff communicate more effectively?
- What opportunities exist to strengthen student voice in school and district decisions?
- How can students help shape the future of Austin Public Schools?
Well-Being and Balance
- What supports help students manage stress, mental health, and academic demands?
- How can schools promote a healthy balance between academics, activities, work, and personal life?
- What additional resources would help students thrive?
Positive School Culture and Belonging
- What helps students feel welcomed, respected, and connected?
- How can schools strengthen relationships among students, staff, families, and the community?
- What ideas can help create a positive and inclusive school experience for all learners?
Engagement in Learning
- What makes learning meaningful and relevant to students?
- How can schools increase student engagement and ownership of learning?
- What classroom practices help students feel challenged, supported, and successful?
Access to Opportunities
- How can we ensure all students have access to academic programs, activities, supports, and experiences?
- What barriers may prevent participation, and how can they be addressed?
- How can schools help students explore future career and college pathways?
Artificial Intelligence and Future Readiness
- How are students currently using Artificial Intelligence in school and everyday life?
- What opportunities and challenges does AI create for learning?
- What skills do students need to use AI responsibly, ethically, and effectively?
- How can schools prepare students for a future where AI will be part of college, careers, and daily life?
- What questions, concerns, or ideas do students have about the role of AI in education and society?
Leadership and Making a Difference
- How can students develop leadership skills and create positive change in their school and community?
- What opportunities exist for students to contribute, serve, and make a difference?
- How can Austin Public Schools better prepare students to make a difference in the world?
Vision for the Year
The Superintendent's Student Advisory Council provides students with a meaningful opportunity to influence their school district, share their perspectives, and help shape the future of Austin Public Schools. Through open dialogue, collaboration, and leadership, council members will contribute ideas that support our mission to inspire, empower, and accelerate every learner and our vision of preparing all learners to make a difference in the world.