Dr. Rapp Hears From Young Leaders Through New Student Advisory Groups
For Superintendent Dr. Lori Rapp, community engagement is key. As stated in the district’s One LISD campaign, Dr. Rapp is focused on communication, connection and culture to bring our community closer than ever. To accomplish this, she has hosted several events to connect with LISD staff and families, celebrate the culture of our district and communicate regularly with our stakeholders. Initiatives like Lunch with Lori, Staff Solution Groups, Key Communicators, Brand Ambassadors and Supper with the Supt have left Dr. Rapp with more than just a busy schedule, but with a list of opportunities and suggestions she can use as the leader of our district.
But one group of stakeholders is perhaps the most excited to be involved in these important conversations - LISD students.
High school advisory groups have existed for years to provide a monthly feedback loop with district leaders. At their meetings these students discuss upcoming initiatives at their school, plan district-wide events like LISD Family Movie Night and offer other helpful ideas.
But for the first time, Dr. Rapp is implementing these groups at the elementary and middle school levels. This year 5th, 7th and 8th graders from each feeder pattern were selected to serve on student advisory groups that meet regularly with Dr. Rapp. Over the past few weeks the new groups have met at their feeder pattern high schools, where students were given warm welcomes by high school student council members.
“It really speaks to your character that you were selected for this committee,” said the LHS Student Council President. “We’re excited to meet the future Farmers.”
The high schoolers discussed their roles and responsibilities as student council members, and answered questions about their high school experiences. They even gifted students with lanyards, buttons and other items to wear at their schools. Above all, they stressed the importance of connection at each of their campuses.
“You’re really part of a family here,” expressed a TCHS senior student council representative.
When their presentations were over, Dr. Rapp asked the advisory groups for feedback on a myriad of topics, including an upcoming student survey. The students helped her to re-word survey questions to better communicate with their peers. She then opened the floor for students to speak openly about their individual campuses.
“I’m proud of how the teachers really want to get us to our best,” said Owen, a MHS feeder pattern student. “They don’t want average, they want you to be the best.”
“I’m proud of a lot of things,” said FMHS feeder student Elizabeth, “but I’m really proud of my principal.”
Several students mentioned the diversity at their campuses, and how proud they are to have classmates from all different backgrounds. They also commended the extra-curricular activities at their school, and how these teams and clubs have brought the students closer together.
“Everybody has a friend at my school,” said a future Hebron Hawk.
Along with the good, students discussed a variety of ways to improve their schools. Many emphasized the need to be kind to each other, and how important it is to remind their classmates to do the same.
“One thing students at my school could improve on is giving more compliments to each other,” said Juliette.
The young leaders were excited to be able to represent their campuses in their time with Dr. Rapp. She thanked them for their participation, and reminded them how valuable their feedback is. “Your input is important at your school,” she told the group at FMHS. “You are what helps make our schools great.”
But at the LHS Student Advisory group, there was one more burning question to be asked before the meeting concluded.
“Do you get stressed, Dr. Rapp?” the students asked.
“I don’t get stressed,” she said with a smile. “But what I do get is joy. When you find something you love to do, it’s really fun. There’s hard parts of the job, but it doesn’t stress me out because I love what I do every day.”
From the beginning, Lewisville Independent School District has committed to ensuring all students—your children—have the resources they need and want to ultimately thrive in a future they create. Follow Lewisville ISD on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter to see more student experiences throughout the school year or visit Best Schools in Texas for more information about joining the LISD family.