When it comes to preventing youth violence, students are more than just program participants. They are experts in their own experiences, offering perspectives that can lead to meaningful and lasting change in schools.
In our latest Perspectives on Prevention video, experts from the National Center for School Safety discuss ways schools can meaningfully involve students in violence prevention. Their conversation highlights the importance of trust, belonging, and student voice in creating safer, more connected school communities.
We invite you to watch the discussion and hear directly from the experts. If you prefer a quick overview, you can also explore six key takeaways drawn from their conversation that show how student involvement strengthens and sustains school safety efforts.
6 Key Takeaways on Why Student Voices Matter
#1 – Students are experts in their own experiences
Students have a unique perspective on what it feels like to be part of a school community. By listening to their voices, adults can uncover challenges and solutions they might otherwise miss.
“Students are the experts of their own experiences of what it means to be a student in a school setting,” said Dr. Briana Scott, a postdoctoral research associate. “They’re going to have ideas that an adult may not come up with when it comes to preventing youth violence.”
When students are included in safety efforts, they are more likely to feel valued and connected to their school.
#2 – Inclusion builds trust and encourages reporting
In schools where students feel heard, they are more likely to share their concerns, identify potential risks, and contribute to shaping solutions.
“The places where school safety efforts really work are the ones where students are actively involved,” said Melissa Chavez, a school safety specialist. “When students feel valued, they’re more likely to engage in solutions and report concerns.”
Without this trust, schools risk missing important warning signs, such as isolation, bullying, or signs of distress. These missed connections can weaken safety systems and leave students feeling unsupported.
#3 – Programs that elevate youth leadership make a difference
From student advisory councils to after-school programs, schools can provide structured opportunities for students to lead and collaborate.
Briana shared an example of middle school students designing and leading community projects. “These projects, like school murals or community dinners, show students that adults take their ideas seriously and give them something to be proud of,” she explained.
Bringing in trusted community members, such as mentors or “community violence interventors,” can also strengthen relationships beyond the school walls.
#4 – Overcoming barriers requires shared responsibility
One challenge in youth engagement is adultism, the belief that adults are inherently more capable of making decisions than young people.
“Challenging that idea and creating a space where adults and youth share ideas and responsibility can make schools safer for everyone,” Briana said.
Melissa added that building trust is a two-way process. Schools can create fun and meaningful opportunities for collaboration, such as contests to promote reporting systems or events that encourage participation. The key is to ensure students know their contributions will be taken seriously.
#5 – Empowerment improves school climate
A strong sense of belonging helps prevent violence.
“When students feel valued and included, when they find purpose and community, it creates a stronger and more positive school climate,” Melissa explained.
Research supports the connection between belonging and safety. Structured programs, visible school leadership, and positive daily interactions, such as greeting students by name, can all help foster this environment.
#6 – Sustainability depends on ongoing structures
Engagement cannot be a one-time effort. Schools need systems that bring new students into leadership roles and sustain conversations, even as populations and staff change.
“Embedding student voice as part of the school culture is essential,” said Briana. “Offering multiple ways for students to share their ideas helps sustain that involvement over time.”
Melissa emphasized the importance of transparency and co-learning. By showing students how their feedback is used, schools build lasting trust and encourage continued participation.