Willowbrook senior participates in ISBE’s first Student Summit, designed to elevate student voices in education

On March 13, Willowbrook senior Ivan Figueroa (pictured above, wearing a black long-sleeve shirt) participated in the Illinois State Board of Education’s first Student Summit.

The event provided about 125 students from 40 high schools throughout the state with a platform to share their experiences, advocate for their needs, and help shape the future of education in Illinois. Figueroa was invited as a member of the ISBE’s Student Advisory Council (SAC).

The summit was designed to engage more student voices in policy conversations on how to improve education, school learning environments and academic outcomes. Roundtables took place regarding key topics identified by the SAC, focusing on students' experiences and well-being. Mental health sessions covered substance use, bullying and access to extracurricular activities that support emotional wellness. Education discussions explored college and career pathways, strengthening Career and Technical Education (CTE), experiential learning and improving curriculum resources. Student engagement roundtables addressed school discipline, cell phone use, attendance and increasing student representation.

Insights and feedback gathered will help inform the SAC’s recommendations to the ISBE when the council presents to board members in May. That presentation will help ensure board members have an opportunity to consider student voice to inform policies and practices that impact Illinois schools.

To read more about the ISBE’s Student Summit, and to view a photo gallery from the event, go to https://tinyurl.com/ISBEStudentSummit2025.