Modesto City Schools (MCS) has introduced a new districtwide culture campaign, Be the Change, to empower students of all ages to take an active role in building a positive and welcoming school environment.
“We want our students to feel empowered to shape a positive culture, to stand up for one another, and to take actions – big or small – that leave a lasting mark on their school community,” said Dr. Vanessa Buitrago, superintendent of Modesto City Schools. “Our students are not just our future leaders. We need to start thinking of them as today’s leaders.”
The student-led initiative is about culture, but also helps amplify the district's Character Education Program, which emphasizes values such as courage, honesty, loyalty, respect, responsibility, civility, compassion, initiative, and perseverance. By linking these values with real opportunities to lead and connect, the campaign encourages students to put character into action, showing that academic growth and personal development go hand in hand.
One way students are stepping up is through creative storytelling. Video production and visual arts students from several high schools, including Johansen High School’s Viking Production Network, are producing original videos on topics such as cyberbullying, trash cleanup, respect, and other ways students can make a difference on their campuses. These peer-created messages will be shared across schools to spark conversation and inspire positive change.
“Be the Change” builds on that foundation by giving students real opportunities to lead, connect with peers, and put those character traits into practice in ways that strengthen their school communities.
“Many times, students think, ‘I’m not going to say anything,’ or ‘It’ll pass,’” said Equity & Intervention Specialist Will Patterson. “But the truth is, their voices matter. We want them to know they can make change by speaking up and stepping forward.”
Patterson, who works closely with student groups including advisory councils and student unions, said the initiative is also a call to action for families.
“This is about continuing the work together,” Patterson said. “Students and families play an important role in shaping our school communities. ‘Be the Change’ is an invitation for everyone to join in and keep the momentum going.”
Learn more about the campaign and see how you can get involved: https://www.mcs4kids.com/page/be-the-change.