At Twinfield Union School in Plainfield, VT, students of all ages are stepping up as leaders and change-makers with the support of UP for Learning. Two student groups—one at the elementary level and one at the high school level —are actively working to shape their school experience and strengthen their community. 

On March 18, the Twinfield Student Voice team gathered to launch their Youth Participatory Action Research (YPAR) cycle—an empowering, youth-led process designed to create meaningful school improvements. This year, their focus is on improving attendance at Twinfield. Attendance plays a crucial role in student success, and this team is determined to uncover the reasons (root cause) behind attendance challenges and find solutions that work for their peers. Their retreat was filled with a dynamic mix of activities, ranging from team-building exercises to deep data analysis. The group developed a mission statement to guide their work, reviewed school attendance trends, and began crafting action plans to create positive change. By the end of the day, these students had moved from brainstorming ideas to laying the groundwork for real solutions—demonstrating the power of youth-driven research and advocacy.

On March 25, Twinfield’s 5th-grade classes participated in their first-ever retreat, marking the beginning of an exciting journey of self-discovery and leadership. This retreat focused on one of the most pivotal transitions in a student’s academic career—the move from elementary to middle school. Through engaging activities and thoughtful discussions, students explored what they could do to ensure their 6th-grade experience is positive and successful. The retreat provided space for them to share hopes, concerns, and ideas about middle school while brainstorming ways to support each other through the transition. There were also countless games and community building activities that fostered fun and belonging amongst the group. UP for Learning will continue to work with this group to refine their vision and develop the skills to take ownership of their middle school experience.

These two Twinfield groups may be at different points in their educational journeys, but they share a common goal: to take ownership of their learning and make their school a better place for all students. These students are proving that they have the vision, voice, and leadership to make a difference. With the continued support of UP for Learning, they will keep building momentum, making Twinfield a stronger, more connected learning community.