CAPSS & CAS Partner to Launch 'Student Voices' Video Contest for Grades 6-12

The Connecticut Association of Public School Superintendents and The Connecticut Association of Schools Want to Know How Students Would Transform Education

 On the heels of a legislative session that focused heavily on how to reform Connecticut's educational system, the Connecticut Association of Public School Superintendents (CAPSS) and The Connecticut Association of Schools (CAS) are looking for more voices to join the conversation around transforming education.  This time, however, they are looking for 'student voices.'

Connecticut students in grades 6-12 are encouraged to work independently or in a small group (no more than three students) to create a 1-4 minute video that highlights their recommendations for transforming education in Connecticut.  Whether it's using more technology in the classroom or offering credit for internships, CAPSS and CAS want to know how it would help students to thrive in school.  First, second and third place prizes and scholarships will be awarded in both the middle and high school divisions.

The 'Student Voices' video contest was inspired by the CT NextEd Report, which provides a robust set of practical recommendations for how to reimagine Connecticut's educational system.

"Administrators, legislators and teachers invest significant resources in identifying ways to make the learning experience more positive and productive for students," Joseph J. Cirasuolo, Ed.D., Executive Director, Connecticut Association of Public School Superintendents, said. "Unfortunately, the student voice isn't often part of that conversation.  This contest is an opportunity for students to leverage their talents and creativity to build a compelling case for how their ideas would enhance learning in Connecticut."

'Student Voices' is a joint initiative of The Connecticut Association of Public School Superintendents and The Connecticut Association of Schools.  Both groups hope to engage students in developing creative, articulate and engaging videos that inspire their peers, educators, administrators and policy makers to think about education differently.

"In our discussions about educational policy and practice, we often forget to include the voices of the most important stakeholders in the work- the students," Karissa Niehoff, Ed. D. Executive Director, The Connecticut Association of Schools, said.  "In order to improve the learning experience and better meet the needs of each and every student, we must hear from them.  They can often present the most authentic perspective about the learning experience and environment.  Through this contest, we hope to catalyze an ongoing dialogue around actionable ways to enhance the learning experience for all of Connecticut's students."

CAPSS and CAS are accepting video submissions from Connecticut students for 'Student Voices' until April 1, 2013.  To learn more and to enter, visit: www.ctstudentvoices.com.

About The Connecticut Association of Public School Superintendents (CAPSS):

The Connecticut Association of Public School Superintendents (CAPSS), based in West Hartford, CT, has been the voice of superintendents of schools in Connecticut for 104 years.  The mission of CAPSS is to lead the continuous improvement of public education for all students by advocating public policy for children and by developing and supporting executive school leaders.  To learn more, visit www.capss.org.

About The Connecticut Association of Schools (CAS):

The Connecticut Association of Schools (CAS), located in Cheshire, CT, is an organization working to strengthen elementary and secondary education and athletics (CIAC) in Connecticut.  Through leadership, administrative, and professional development services, CAS works to serve the collective interests and needs of Connecticut educators. CAS's mission is to provide exemplary programs and services that promote excellence in the education of all children.  To learn more, visit www.casciac.org.