Elevating Student Voice Across Pennsylvania
Sponsored by the Pennsylvania Department of Education, Office for Safe Schools
? What Is the Student Symposium?
A series of student-centered events across Pennsylvania designed to elevate student voice, agency, and well-being. These symposiums aim to improve school climate by listening to students’ real experiences and ideas, helping shape future statewide education supports and mental wellness initiatives.
?? Sponsored By:
Led by the Pennsylvania Department of Education – Office for Safe Schools, in partnership with Intermediate Units:
– Hosting IUs: IU3, IU5, IU11, IU13, IU18
– Supporting IU: IU15 (report generation)
– Partner Agencies include:
• Jewish Health Federation, Teen Mental Health Collaborative
• Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh, The Mentoring Partnership
• Duquesne University
? Who Will Participate?
– Middle and high school students across rural, urban, and suburban PA
– Dynamic keynote speakers, Tre Tipton,
– Facilitators and notetakers trained in youth engagement and trauma-informed practices
– Student groups: SEPA, Aevidum, SHOUT, NAMI clubs, and more
? Why It Matters
Student input is essential to creating inclusive, supportive, and safe learning environments. The symposiums will explore:
– What makes students feel like they belong
– How to improve access to help
– What supports and systems are missing or working well
Feedback will inform a statewide “Mental Wellness Report” to shape educational policy and practice.
? Key Dates & Locations
Date | Host IU | Venue | Est. Attendance
—–|———|——–|—————–
Sept 30, 2025 | IU5 | Bayfront Convention Center, Erie, PA | 200–250
Oct 21, 2025 | IU18 | Mohegan Sun Pocono Conference Center | 250–300
Nov 18, 2025 | IU3 | Acrisure Stadium, Pittsburgh | 250–300
Mar 27, 2026 | IU13 | IU13 Conference Center | 250–275
Apr 24, 2026 | IU11 | Blair County Convention Center | 250–300
? Outcomes
– A comprehensive “State of the State – Mental Wellness Report” based on student perspectives. The summary report will also be shared with Governor Shapiro
– Actionable, student-driven data to support policy, programming, and resource allocation
– Reinforcement of a statewide commitment to student agency and well-being