Abbotsford Students Demand Changes in School Environment

Students from the Abbotsford School District have voiced their desire for improvements in school facilities and learning environments through a comprehensive survey. Conducted by the Youth Health Accountability Network (YHAN), the survey gathered feedback from over 1,200 high school students in Grades 9 through 12 during the fall of 2023.

The results indicate a strong demand for more quiet study spaces and improvements to school washrooms. Students reported that these changes could significantly enhance their educational experience. The findings will be presented to district leaders to inform future policy decisions.

Survey Highlights Student Concerns

Students expressed a clear need for dedicated areas where they can engage in quiet study or downtime. Approximately 43% of respondents indicated they do not receive enough breaks throughout the school day. Many highlighted issues with current study spaces, noting that even libraries can be noisy and unproductive.

“It was incredible to see so many youths come together to really tell the education system in Abbotsford what they wanted to be changed,” said Ayra Dhillon, a Grade 10 student at Abbotsford Senior Secondary School and one of the survey’s leaders. Dhillon, involved in the district’s Student Voice program, collaborated with Bruce Cunnings, the assistant superintendent, to develop the survey over three months.

Dhillon noted that the survey’s results revealed a significant interest in reinstating late start days, previously known as “SLO days,” which allowed students to begin their Fridays later. Hundreds of students voiced their support for this idea, reflecting a desire for more flexibility in their schedules.

Washroom Conditions Top Improvement List

When asked about facility improvements, 33% of students identified washroom conditions as the most pressing issue. Common complaints included non-functional hand dryers, a lack of paper towels, and general cleanliness. The overwhelming feedback has motivated Dhillon to propose three policy recommendations to the school board: reinstating late starts, creating quiet study-only spaces, and adding structured study blocks during the school day.

“The hardest part about being a student is that sometimes you don’t get the space to breathe throughout the day,” Dhillon remarked, emphasizing the need for a more balanced school environment. The survey’s success has inspired other students, particularly in nearby districts like Chilliwack and Surrey, to consider launching their own surveys to gather student feedback.

The survey included a range of questions aimed at understanding student experiences and perceptions. Among the key findings were:

• Confidence in academic success: 59% of respondents felt somewhat confident, while 30% felt extremely confident.
• Support channels: 48% of students typically seek help from friends, while 31% approach teachers.
• Access to healthy meals: 56% of students reported having access, while 17% said they did not.
• Feeling of respect: 58% said they feel respected by teachers, while 60% felt respected by peers.

Overall, the survey has highlighted the need for greater student involvement in discussions about school policies and environments. As education systems evolve, the voices of students like Ayra Dhillon will be crucial in shaping the future of their schools.