Abbotsford Students Highlight Need for Study Spaces and Facilities Upgrade

Students in the Abbotsford School District have expressed a strong desire for more quiet study spaces and improvements to school washrooms, according to findings from a recent survey conducted by the Youth Health Accountability Network (YHAN). The survey, which gathered anonymous feedback from over 1,200 high school students in grades 9 through 12, aimed to assess school experiences, well-being, safety, and support systems.

The results will be analyzed and presented to district leaders to inform future policy decisions. This initiative is part of an effort to amplify student voices in matters concerning their educational environment.

Survey Insights and Student Perspectives

Ayra Dhillon, a Grade 10 student at Abbotsford Senior Secondary School, played a key role in leading the survey. Her involvement is rooted in the Abbotsford School District’s Student Voice program, which was launched in 2021. This program encourages students to engage in discussions about school and community issues on a weekly basis.

Dhillon highlighted that discussions with Bruce Cunnings, the assistant superintendent, led to the creation of the survey. “We realized that when the school district or school board makes new policies, they often overlook student concerns and suggestions,” Dhillon stated. “Mr. Cunnings emphasized the importance of gathering student input to improve school conditions this year.”

The survey took approximately three months to develop, and Dhillon expressed satisfaction with the engagement it received. “It was incredible to see so many youths come together to express their needs and desires for change within the Abbotsford education system,” she said.

One of the most significant findings was the overwhelming request for more dedicated study blocks or quiet areas within schools. Dhillon noted that many students reported challenges in finding peaceful spaces, even in libraries where noise levels could be disruptive. Specifically, 43 percent of respondents indicated that there are not enough breaks or downtime during the school day.

Key Areas for Improvement

The survey also revealed that washroom facilities were a primary concern among students. Approximately 33 percent of respondents identified improvements to washrooms as the top priority. Issues such as malfunctioning hand dryers, lack of paper towels, and cleanliness were frequently mentioned.

In response to the survey findings, Dhillon plans to propose three key policy recommendations to the school board at an upcoming meeting. These recommendations include reinstating late start days, establishing quiet study-only spaces, and implementing structured study blocks during the school day. “Students often feel overwhelmed without adequate time to breathe throughout the day,” she said, acknowledging the pressures of a packed class schedule.

The success of the Abbotsford survey has inspired students in nearby Chilliwack and Surrey to consider conducting similar initiatives to present their findings to local school boards.

The comprehensive survey included various questions regarding student experiences. Here are some notable statistics:

– 59 percent of students felt somewhat confident in their ability to succeed in their classes.
– When seeking help, 48 percent turn to friends, while 31 percent consult teachers.
– A significant 43 percent of students reported not feeling they receive enough breaks to manage stress effectively.
– 60 percent indicated they feel respected by their peers, while 58 percent felt respected by their teachers.

The survey also asked about the relevance of literacy and numeracy assessments, with 40 percent of students expressing that they do not find these assessments important.

Dhillon’s advocacy highlights a growing trend among students to actively participate in improving their educational environments. Her experience serves as a reminder of the importance of student input in shaping policies that affect their day-to-day experiences in schools.