In a testament to the power of student advocacy and the potential for collective action to effect meaningful change within our educational institutions, students from Crawford High School rallied in May for not just their own futures but those of countless students to come.
Their vision was bold yet straightforward: to create a year-long college elective course that’s accessible to all students, irrespective of their GPA status, and reduce the current student to counselor ratio.
It all began in 2022, when a group of high school seniors were faced with the daunting task of applying to colleges on their own. As they tried to navigate their way through it, they encountered a stark reality: the glaring lack of support and resources available to students like themselves. Coming from households where no one had attended college before, they felt isolated and overwhelmed by the complexities of the application process.
“We believe every student deserves a fair shot at higher education, regardless of their GPA,” said Amina Mohamed. “That’s why we’re fighting for a college prep course that levels the playing field.”
Determined to ensure that future first-generation and refugee students wouldn’t face the same hurdles, they came together to advocate that college admissions and preparation be integrated into the regular school curriculum. In the first semester, students would receive assistance with crucial tasks such as navigating financial aid, exploring scholarship opportunities, and honing their essay- writing skills. The goal? To ensure that every student has the resources they need to submit strong college applications.
“Our mission isn’t just about getting into college — it’s about equipping every student with the skills and support to thrive once they’re there,” said Mohamed.
But their vision extended beyond the confines of application paperwork. Recognizing the importance of preparing students for the rigors of college life, the second semester would pivot towards career exploration and college life. This phase would include alumni nights where former college students provide valuable insights into college life, time management, and fostering independence. Moreover, there would be career fairs and workshops dedicated to exploring diverse career paths, including options for trade schools and job opportunities for students aiming for immediate entry into the workforce after graduation.
“We’ve seen firsthand how crucial it is to prepare for life beyond high school. Our vision includes real- world insights and career pathways that empower every student,” said Mohamed.
Yet, even the most comprehensive programs are rendered ineffective if students lack access to the necessary support. This realization prompted the seniors to advocate for a reduction in the student- to-counselor ratio, highlighting the overwhelming caseloads that often left students feeling neglected and overlooked. With the current ratio at 383.33 students to 1 counselor at Crawford, the students are pushing to adhere to the American School Counselor Association’s recommendation of no more than 250 students per counselor.
“Reducing the student-to-counselor ratio isn’t just a number — it’s about ensuring no student falls through the cracks. We’re advocating for the support system every student deserves,” said Mohamed.
The students’ efforts culminated in a presentation to the school board on May 28, 2024, where they passionately articulated the need for these reforms to be incorporated into the Local Control Accountability Plan (LCAP). The LCAP is a three- year roadmap defining the district’s priorities, and holds sway over the allocation of resources and the direction of educational policies.
“Presenting our case to the school board wasn’t just a moment — it was a plea for equity in education. Our voices are echoing the need for change across our community,” said Mohamed.
With the final vote on this year’s LCAP scheduled for the end of June, the seniors are hopeful that their voices will be heard and their vision for equitable education will be embraced.
As we stand on the precipice of change, let us heed the call to action and join hands in building a future where every student has the opportunity to thrive, regardless of their background or circumstances. Together, we can empower tomorrow’s leaders and ensure that the promise of education remains within reach for all.
“Let’s stand together to create a future where every student’s potential can flourish,”said Mohamed.“Our advocacy today shapes the leaders of tomorrow.”