Student Advisory Launches a New Year of Student Leadership

Student voice at CAST Schools is more than being asked for an opinion. It means being given a seat at the table—and the responsibility to help shape what comes next.

That idea came to life on August 28, when students from across the CAST Schools Network gathered at The DoSeum for the first Student Advisory convening of the 2026–27 school year.

The Student Advisory gives students a meaningful role in improving the experience across CAST Schools. Members share insights, offer feedback, propose solutions, and use their voice and agency to help shape the network. They also grow as leaders within their own schools and communities.

At the first convening, students spent time getting to know one another, setting personal goals, and learning what it means to serve on the advisory. They explored the group’s charge to advise, grow, and uplift, while beginning strategic planning and relationship-building work designed to strengthen collaboration across campuses.

That collaboration will be especially important as the group takes on one of its biggest responsibilities of the year: planning the annual Youth Rally, a network-wide event created by students for students. Advisory members will help bring the event to life, gaining hands-on experience with the many decisions and details involved in producing a large-scale event for more than 400 CAST Schools 10th graders.

The first meeting set the tone for the year ahead: students building relationships across campuses, strengthening their leadership skills, and taking an active role in shaping the future of the CAST Schools experience.

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