Bridges of Belonging: A Student Empowerment & Challenge Program
This program invites students to become leaders, problem-solvers, and change-makers in our school community. Students will choose a topic, identify a real challenge, and present a creative and meaningful solution through a presentation (3–5 minute video, slides, poster, flyer or canva-style visual explanation). Participants may work individually or as a team. The registration deadline is January 31st. Registration Form: https://forms.gle/z8d9SqycofBe2yRz6
Download/Print out Flyer | social media Image to share
Important Participation Guidelines
- This project must be student-initiated. The main idea, solution, and message should come from the student(s).
- Parent/Adult Support: Parents and adults may help with planning, organizing, and technical support (e.g., filming, editing, typing, or assembling materials). If help is given, please briefly note what type of support was provided.
- No AI-Generated Content: Students may research and learn using any tools, but the solution and project materials cannot be generated by AI (e.g., AI-written scripts, AI-created slides, AI-drawn artwork). The goal is to highlight student voice, originality, and authentic thinking.
Who Can Participate:
All Issaquah School District students (K–12). Students of all abilities, including students receiving Special Education services, are welcome and encouraged to participate. Projects will be evaluated in four level categories (**Note: Students receiving Special Education services may choose either the grade-level division that matches their current grade, or the Special Education division depending on what feels most comfortable and supportive. Both choices are equally welcome and celebrated.):
- Elementary (K–5)
- Middle School (6–8)
- High School (9–12)
- Special Education (All Grade)
Project Topics (Choose One):
- How can we make our school a place where everyone feels included, respected, and supported?
- How can technology or social media be used to build community rather than cause division?
- *How can we encourage students to speak up when they see someone being treated unfairly or unkindly?
- *What new tradition or activity would help bring more joy or unity to our school?
* = recommended for elementary students. but any student can choose any topic.
What to Submit:
A presentation showing your idea and solution. This may be:
- A 3–5 minute video recorded on a phone or camera, and/or
- Slides, a poster, flyer, or canva-style visual explaining your project, which equal to 3-5 mins of presentation
Submission Format:
You will submit your project through a Google Form upload, the submission form will email to the families who registered in January. The last day to submit the project is February 28.
File name should include School Name + Grade Level + Student/Team Name
Example: EvergreenMS_7_TheUnityTeam
What We’re Looking For:
- A clear explanation of the problem and an achievable solution
- Kindness, empathy, and respect for different viewpoints
- Creativity, originality, and thoughtful problem-solving
- Clear and engaging communication
Recognition & Awards:
- All participants will receive a Participation Certificate with a prize.
- Projects will be shared online for community voting.
- Eight finalists (two from each level category) will be invited to present their projects at a special Meet, Eat & Inspire event on June 2, 2026 with school district leaders and community advocates.
We look forward to seeing your creativity, leadership, and voice shine!
Questions? Please email dei@issaquahptsa.org and face@issaquahptsa.org
Issaquah PTSA Council Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee & Family and Community Engagement Committee