Amplify
We listen to the stories of students across Oregon and partner with K-12 decision makers to improve students' experiences.
State of our Schools
Taking an initial step to elevate student participation in decision-making processes, OSV listened to high school students across Oregon to attain a better comprehension of their perceptions of our education system. More than 2,200 students shared their experiences in an online survey or during focus group discussions. In this report, written by high school students, we analyze responses around different aspects of schooling. We conclude with recommendations for how Oregon’s K-12 education system can better support students.
rePORTS AND BRIEFS
We regularly conduct research on the challenges students face in our schools. To gain a comprehensive understanding of each issue, we analyze student data and examine academic resources. Based on our research, we offer recommendations for change.
K-12 POLICY WORK
We support K-12 education policies and practices that address the barriers and inequities systemically embedded in Oregon’s K-12 education system. We conduct extensive research and listen to student voices on each practice and policy when forming our stance.
Summaries of our policy priorities
2019 Legislative Session
We plan to advocate for these broad policy priorities:
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Aligning K-12 sexual harassment policies with collegiate policies
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Addressing discrimination, harassment, bullying, and intimidation in K-12 schools
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Increasing access to mental health resources
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Creating alternative pathways for success after graduation
2018 Legislative Session
We met with state policymakers to advocate for improving reporting standards around sexual harassment allegations to ensure the safety of students and increase transparency and accountability in school administration (House Bill 4150). Representative Salinas and Senator Gelser were chief sponsors on the bill. We requested an amendment to the bill to require school districts to provide updates to students and their families about the progress of the investigation. On March 16, 2018, Governor Kate Brown signed this bill into law. We hope that House Bill 4150 lays the groundwork for future legislation that provides more protections and rights for victims.
We also advocated for the following policy priorities:
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Removing barriers to financing higher education for undocumented students (Senate Bill 1563). Signed into law by Governor Kate Brown on April 13, 2018.
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Ensuring that students are authentically engaged with the work of the Joint Committee on Student Success.
2017 Legislative Session
We spoke with state policymakers about the passage of the Ethnic Studies Bill (House Bill 2845), which directs the Oregon Department of Education to convene an advisory group to develop ethnic-studies standards into existing statewide social-studies standards. We successfully asked to have two high school students or recent graduates included on the advisory group. On June 30, 2017, Governor Kate Brown signed this bill into law.