Inspire Shasta, Episode 22: Student Voice, Leadership & Making Change Happen

In this episode of Inspire Shasta, we hear directly from two student leaders who are helping shape the future of student voice in Shasta County: Jacob Garcia, a senior at West Valley High School and returning SCOE student board member, and Deasle De Lello, a junior at Foothill High School and newly appointed student board member.  Jacob and Deasle share their experiences as students, the educators who have influenced them, and what inspired them to step into leadership roles. They also introduce an exciting new initiative: a Shasta County Student Advisory Board, designed to bring student representatives from high schools throughout the county together to identify issues, share perspectives and work toward meaningful change.  In This Episode • Student leadership and representation: Why having students at the table matters when decisions are being made about education.  • The Student Advisory Board: How the new group will bring together representatives from high schools across Shasta County.  • Student voice beyond the meeting: Why advisory board members will be expected to engage with their own schools and communities—not simply attend monthly meetings.  • Leadership through advocacy: How students can identify issues at their schools and work with others to create change.  • The importance of representation: Why students from rural, urban, charter, continuation and private schools all need a voice.  • Finding your courage: Jacob and Deasle share what they believe makes someone a strong student leader.  • Creating opportunities for students: Their vision for a Shasta County where every student can find opportunities that match their interests and goals.  • Looking toward the future: Their hopes for the lasting impact of student leadership and civic engagement in the county.  What Makes a Student Leader? Jacob offers three questions for students considering applying to the Student Advisory Board: 1. Is there an issue at your school that impacts other students? 2. Does that issue bother you? 3. What are you going to do about it?  For Deasle, the key qualities are passion and bravery—being willing to identify an issue, speak up about it and take action.  Looking Beyond Their Own Schools One of the most compelling parts of the conversation is the students' recognition that no two schools in Shasta County are exactly alike. Jacob talks about wanting to visit schools throughout the county, including places he hasn't yet experienced firsthand, to better understand the issues students face in different communities.  The Student Advisory Board is intended to help bridge those differences by giving students a way to share what's happening in their own schools and communities. Their Vision for the Future Both students have ambitious goals for the impact their work can have. Deasle hopes to create more pathways for students to become involved in local government, including a potential internship program connecting students with local elected officials and civic opportunities.  Jacob hopes that, five years from now, every student in Shasta County will feel there is an opportunity for them—and that students will see the county as a place where they can make a difference.  A Message to the Next Generation The episode closes with a powerful conversation about hope and the future. Deasle hopes his generation can help bridge divisions and give young people a stronger platform to share the positive things they're doing in their communities.  Jacob's message is simple: stay bold. He believes young people can use their experiences—including the challenges they've faced—to drive positive change in their schools, communities and beyond.  Key Takeaway Student voice isn't just about being heard—it's about having the opportunity, courage and support to turn that voice into action. This episode is an inspiring look at two young people who aren't waiting for someone else to create change. They're stepping forward, building something new and inviting other Shasta County students to join them.