Seven Oaks welcomes student advisory council

The Seven Oaks School Division board of trustees launched its 2026 student advisory council on Feb. 3, bringing together student representatives from across the division for the first of four meetings.

The council gives students a direct voice in board-level conversations. By meeting with trustees throughout the year, students are encouraged to share their experiences, perspectives, and priorities, ensuring that decision-making is informed by those most affected by it.

In this first session, the board hosted 26 student leaders and representatives from West Kildonan Collegiate, Garden City Collegiate, Maples Collegiate and the three MET high schools –Seven Oaks MET, The Exchange MET and Maples MET.

At the meeting, students introduced themselves and spoke about the issues that matter most in their school lives. Themes such as well being, learning preferences, and the importance of strong, school-wide supports emerged as common threads.

“It is important for adults who make decisions for the school division to understand student needs and concerns, as we are the ones directly impacted,” said Maples student Sehajveer Sidhu.

Brianna Johnson, also of Maples Collegiate, added: “Ensuring equity in our schools is a crucial value that strengthens and supports the entire student body.”

Trustees noted the thoughtfulness and honesty students brought to the discussion, emphasizing how valuable these insights are in shaping responsive and student-centred policies.

The next advisory council meeting is scheduled for March 15. Trustees plan to engage students in a focused conversation about artificial intelligence and its growing influence on learning, an area where student perspectives are rapidly evolving and increasingly essential.

The board looks forward to continuing these conversations throughout the year as part of its commitment to meaningful student engagement.