Student Initiatives

Conversations and advocacy around equity and inclusion can be challenging, complex, and feel divisive. And yet, it is more important now, than ever before, that our students can navigate these conversations in productive and restorative ways during their high school experience and beyond. 

District 113 works to actively engage our students by providing tools, educational opportunities, and space for respectful and courageous dialogue and celebration of the diversity across our communities. Our key initiatives include:

• Anti-Defamation League- World of Difference Program: A Peer Training model designed to create positive, sustainable change in schools. Built on the knowledge that the most important influences on young people are the attitudes and behaviors of their peers, the Peer Training Program prepares young people to use the positive power of peer influence to promote respect and civility in their schools and beyond. From its birth during the Crown Heights riots, the Peer Training Program has grown into an international program linking students across the U.S. to 15 countries abroad. This program teaches Peer Trainers to take action against prejudice by leading workshops and discussions with peers about the issues that impact their school. Their efforts are key in creating environments where differences are valued and respected.
• Student activities: Our student activities division is home to many equity-minded and affinity student groups, including Student Voice, Equinox, Latinx Hispanic Student Association, Gay Straight Alliance, 24|7|365 Beyond, and the Asian American Student Association.