Reimagining School Through Student Voice

In this episode of Whole Brain Whole Child, Dr. Jillaine Berardi, Assistant Superintendent for Learning & Design at the Center for Innovative Teaching & Learning (CITL) holds space for voices from CITL at Mount Marion Middle School for a powerful, student-centered conversation about learning, belonging, and the systems that shape their experiences.Joined by Assistant Principal Shelbi Hamilton, middle school students Kestrel and Isaac share their perspectives with honesty and courage, offering insights into what helps them feel supported, what challenges them, and what they envision for the future of education. Their reflections highlight the importance of connection, identity, and creating spaces where every learner is seen, heard, and valued.At Ulster BOCES, we believe in elevating student voice as a cornerstone of deeper learning. This conversation reflects our North Star Educational Commitments: fostering inclusive environments, nurturing the whole child, and designing learning experiences that empower students to think critically, advocate for themselves, and contribute meaningfully to their communities.This episode invites educators, families, and community members to listen closely, because when students speak, we learn.🔹 What does it mean to truly support the whole child?🔹 How can schools better respond to student needs and strengths?🔹 What happens when we center student voice in educational design?Join us as we explore these questions and continue the journey toward more responsive, human-centered education.Episode Details:00:00 – Introduction: Whole Brain Whole Child PodcastDr. Jillaine Berardi opens the conversation, setting the stage for a student-centered discussion on learning, belonging, and the future of education.00:48 – Meet the Students: Kestrel & Isaac Share Their StoriesKestrel and Isaac introduce themselves, sharing early insights into their experiences and what matters most to them as learners.03:07 – Student Experiences: What School Feels LikeStudents reflect on their educational journeys, highlighting the supports, challenges, and moments that have shaped their growth.07:36 – Belonging, Identity & Inclusive School CommunitiesA powerful conversation about inclusivity, representation, and the importance of feeling seen, valued, and supported in school.08:43 – What Students Want: Designing the Ideal School DayKestrel reimagines the school day—emphasizing choice, creativity, outdoor time, and more personalized learning experiences. 17:43 – Rethinking School: Equity, Testing & Student VoiceA critical look at grading, testing, and equity—through the lens of student experience and the need for more responsive systems.24:03 – Future of Education: Creativity, Labs & Real-World LearningStudents envision hands-on learning environments, innovation labs, and opportunities to create, build, and explore real-world applications.34:00 – Student Voice in Action: Curiosity, Projects & InnovationStudent-driven learning comes to life through projects, field trips, and inquiry-based experiences grounded in curiosity.44:12 – Skills for Life: What Students Really Need to SucceedThe episode closes with reflections on essential life skills—highlighting creativity, critical thinking, and real-world readiness.