Small Groups at Parker are one of the few spaces where every student has a real chance to speak up and make a difference in the community. These discussions, led by two student leaders in small, multi-grade groups, cover many important topics and issues. From topics like homework and the new schedule to topics of political diversity and art credits, small groups cover so many important topics. I personally believe that these sessions have the potential to bring change, but only if students take them seriously.

I had the chance to lead the discussion about cross-grade activities. Despite some moments of disruption and even moments where I could’ve been more engaged, I was impressed by how much useful feedback came from the group. It started off with some people just tossing out some ideas, but at some point, a bunch of perspectives came together and created more detailed thoughts. The frustrating part for me was that in many rooms, students clearly didn’t value the opportunity. They treated the discussion more like a break than a chance to try and get their voice out there. Yet, I hear students complaining about things that we’ve had the opportunity to discuss during Small Group discussions.

Small Groups are designed specifically to prevent this disconnect that students feel when it comes to regular large group forum-like discussions. They are structured so that everyone, no matter their grade or who they are, can speak openly on school-wide issues. When students dismiss them, they miss out on a really good chance to help solve issues or questions in the community. 

I’ll admit that when I used to attend Small Groups, I didn’t take them as seriously as I should’ve. They happen only a handful of times a year and take up only 40 minutes of the day, making them a valuable low-time commitment place. Student Government looks to these Small Groups discussions for feedback to bring to admin, but that’ll only happen if people are actually engaged.

If students underestimate the power of Small Groups and the change they can actually bring, we could continue to miss out on all the valuable input we could receive from students. So next time you are in a Small Group discussion, think of it as something more than just a random mandatory meeting.