Activist Lab
Adopt a School Program
The Activist Lab's Adopt a School Program invites students from local middle and high schools to participate with the Lab to be introduced to advocacy and to develop projects within their school settings. Students hone writing and speech skills while learning how to implement change at all levels.
The Activist Lab works with Ellen Kent, coordinator of the USF Health Service Corps, and Activist Lab Student Advisory Board members to deliver the Adopt a School Program.
Never Too Young to Advocate
The Adopt-a-School Program, which is ongoing, invites students from local schools to participate in Lab activities to learn how to be strong public health advocates. “Young individuals need to find their voice early to become strong advocates and have an outlet for their passion for change. However, advocacy takes skill, and these skills need to be not only learned but practiced so that one is effective in leading change efforts,” Liller said. “I believe you can’t start too young when it comes to learning advocacy.”
Teaching Advocacy
Students participate in a variety of projects and work on projects within their own schools to create change. Examples of topics explored include improving the dress code language in school documents, having more supplies available in classrooms and restrooms, and improving the cafeteria food choices. Also, the Activist Lab has developed programs for the students, including climate change and Latino health and more!