The Boston Student Advisory Council

The Boston Student Advisory Council (BSAC) is a body of selected high school student representatives from across Boston Public Schools (BPS). BSAC leaders use their voices as the primary vehicle for student perspectives, engaging in decision-making with BPS leadership. Students amplify their concerns by organizing student-led spaces, meeting with district leaders, and connecting with youth-serving organizations. BSAC strives to develop student leaders who are empowered to advocate for their schools and communities.

BSAC students work to support other youth-serving organizations in Boston through cross-collaboration, working together and supporting each other’s events. We believe that students' thoughts, opinions, and ideas should contribute to decision-making in Boston Public Schools. Ensuring that student leaders also have access to income is a vital component of supporting our program model.

We work directly with Boston Public High School students from various races and ethnic backgrounds, with 99% of our students being people of color. BSAC is a platform where city agencies, community organizations, and other leaders come to gather critical student feedback on a wide range of topics. Their ideas are sought after and valued in various policy initiatives throughout the city and the BPS district.

BSAC Youth Leaders will engage in various career and community explorations with a focus on leadership, wellness, and community connectedness. BSAC receives requests for youth involvement in retreats, conferences, community meetings, focus groups, and other events over the summer. Youth leaders must be ready to learn about relevant topics in preparation for meetings and events and engage during them, at times taking a personal or organizational stance to advance BSAC goals.

Key projects include:

- Advising the Boston Public Schools, Superintendent, and Department Chiefs on key issues impacting students.
- Working on various subcommittee topics that directly affect students' academic, social, and emotional well-being.
- Learning about the importance of wellness—mind, body, and soul—and how it impacts personal and community growth.
- Participating in community meetings, focus groups, and events to represent student voices and advocate for positive changes.
- Engaging in leadership development opportunities to build essential skills for personal and professional growth.

Ideal Candidate for the Youth Leadership Role:

- Self-Motivated and Independent: Capable of taking initiative and working autonomously, while also being comfortable collaborating within a team setting.
- Strong Leadership and Advocacy Skills: Interested in developing leadership skills and passionate about advocating for causes that positively impact youth and communities.
- Commitment to Social Justice: Deeply passionate about social justice, equity, and making meaningful change in society.
- Adaptable and Open to New Experiences: Eager to step outside of comfort zones, try new things, and contribute to various projects and events.
- Collaborative Team Player: Ability to work effectively with diverse teams, supporting peers and contributing to group efforts to achieve common goals.
- Excellent Communication Skills: Capable of engaging and inspiring others through both verbal and written communication, creating positive impact and driving meaningful conversations.
- Community-Oriented: Interest in youth organizing, community engagement, and the desire to help amplify student voices in decision-making processes.