Student Voice. Real Impact. Meaningful Change.

Seattle Public Schools is committed to ensuring that students play a meaningful role in shaping the future of their education. Two key opportunities—the Superintendent Student Advisory Board (SSAB) and the Project-Based Student Board (PBSB)—provide students with powerful ways to share their perspectives and make a lasting impact on the district. Learn more about each opportunity below.

SSAB and PBSB Timeline

• April 20, 2026 – Application Opens
• May 3, 2026, 11:59 p.m. – Application Closes
• By May 15, 2026 – Notification of Selection
• May 16, 2026 – (Optional) Last 2025-26 Meeting, Invitation to preview meeting structure and participation.
• June 6, 2026 – (Optional) Meet & Greet with 2025-26 student members
• Tentatively scheduled for Sept. 19-20, 2026 – (Optional) Initial Training Bootcamp
• Sept. 26, 2026 – First Official Meeting of 2026-27

Superintendent Student Advisory Board (SSAB)

Direct Dialogue with the Superintendent

The Superintendent Student Advisory Board (SSAB) offers students a unique opportunity to engage directly with the Superintendent and senior district leaders. Through meaningful dialogue and consultation, SSAB ensures that student perspectives help shape district priorities and decision-making.

Purpose of SSAB

• Provide the Superintendent with diverse student perspectives
• Offer feedback on district policies, initiatives, and strategic priorities
• Elevate student experiences to inform district decision-making
• Strengthen transparency and trust between students and district leadership
• Serve as ambassadors representing the voices of their peers

Who Can Join?

• All Seattle Public Schools high school students are eligible. We hope to have two students from each comprehensive high school and one from non-comprehensive high schools.
• Students should be interested in sharing perspectives and representing their school communities.
• We strongly encourage participation from students representing the diversity of Seattle Public Schools.
• No prior leadership experience is required.

Participation Overview

• One Saturday per month, 10-11 a.m.
• Roundtable discussions with the Superintendent.
• A commitment to attend meetings and gathering input from peers.
• Meetings are typically held at the John Stanford Center Auditorium

What You’ll Do

As an SSAB member, you will:

• Engage in meaningful discussions with the Superintendent
• Provide feedback on district initiatives and policies
• Share experiences and perspectives from your school community
• Help inform decisions that impact students across Seattle
• Build leadership and civic engagement skills

Impact of SSAB

Through SSAB, students:

• Influence district priorities and policies
• Ensure student experiences are reflected in decision-making
• Strengthen communication between students and district leadership
• See the connection between feedback and change
• Develop confidence and leadership skills

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Project-Based Student Board (PBSB)

Hear From Students Directly

What Is PBSB?

The Project-Based Student Board (PBSB) is a districtwide group of high school students who collaborate on real projects that address important issues in Seattle Public Schools. Rather than serving only in an advisory capacity, PBSB members research challenges, develop solutions, and present recommendations that can influence district decisions.

Mission

To improve student outcomes through project-based work driven by student needs.

Vision

A school district directly informed by diverse student voices, leading to actionable changes that reflect shared values. 

Our Core Values

• Collaboration – Working together across schools and communities
• Diversity – Valuing the representation and perspectives of all students
• Innovation – Designing and testing new ideas to solve real challenges
• Growth Mindset – Believing that leadership and ability grow with effort

Why PBSB Matters

Traditional student leadership opportunities often center on students who are already highly engaged. PBSB expands access to leadership by intentionally including students from historically underrepresented backgrounds and connecting student voice directly to district priorities. 

Through PBSB, students gain leadership experience, build civic engagement skills, and help shape meaningful improvements in Seattle Public Schools.

What You’ll Do

As a PBSB member, you will:

• Work on real district challenges
• Collaborate with students from across Seattle
• Develop leadership and advocacy skills
• Engage with district leaders and experts
• Create recommendations that influence decision-making
• Strengthen your sense of belonging and ownership in the school system

Who Can Join?

• All Seattle Public Schools high school students are eligible.
• Students from historically underrepresented backgrounds are strongly encouraged to apply.
• No prior leadership experience is required—just a commitment to making a difference.

Participation Overview

• Monthly Meetings, one Saturday per month
• Time: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., after the SSAB meetings
• Meetings are typically held at the John Stanford Center Auditorium

Meeting Activities

• Community building and networking
• Learning about district systems and governance
• Guest speakers and professional development
• Collaborative project work in subcommittees

Expectations

• Attend at least 80% of meetings.
• Actively participate and represent student perspectives.
• Engage in project work between meetings.
• Review materials and connect with peers if a meeting is missed.

Roles and Leadership Opportunities

Students may take on rotating leadership roles, including:

• Facilitator
• Note-Taker
• Media Manager
• Outreach Coordinator

Subcommittees will also designate leaders to help guide project work and ensure accountability.

Training and Support

PBSB members receive:

• Orientation on governance and student rights
• Training on policy processes and advocacy strategies
• Opportunities to collaborate with district departments
• Ongoing support from adult advisors and district leaders

Anticipated Impact: Short-Term

• Increased student engagement and voice
• Greater understanding of district governance
• Stronger connections among students across schools

Anticipated Impact: Long-Term

• A leadership culture where all students see themselves as changemakers
• Stronger alignment between student experiences and district policies
• Sustainable systems for meaningful student engagement

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PBSB vs. SSAB: Which Is Right for You?

Students are welcome to apply for one or both opportunities. One application for all options.

Feature	SSAB	PBSB
Primary Focus	Advisory and feedback	Project-based solutions
Interaction with Leadership	Direct engagement with the Superintendent	Collaboration with multiple district departments
Structure	Roundtable discussions	Subcommittees working on long-term projects
Outcome	Strategic insights and feedback	Formal recommendations
Meeting Frequency	Monthly	Monthly
Length	1 hour	3 hours

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Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need prior leadership experience?
No. We welcome students from all backgrounds who are passionate about making a difference.

Can I apply to both SSAB and PBSB?
Yes! Students may apply for one or both opportunities.

Is there a cost to participate?
No. Participation is free.

Will transportation be provided?
No, but students can collaborate with one another for participation, and the John Stanford Cetner is close to the Link, which students can ride for free through Orca Cards.

Who can I contact with questions?
Traci Ikegami
Office of Accountability
tlikegami@seattleschools.org

Ready to Make an Impact?
Your voice matters. Join the Superintendent Student Advisory Board (SSAB) or the Project-Based Student Board (PBSB) and help shape the future of Seattle Public Schools.