May 5, 2026
What if students weren’t just “given a voice,” but shared real power in how schools operate?
In this episode, Lindsay sits down with Ana, Jacoby, and Lindsey from UP for Learning to explore what youth–adult partnership actually looks like in practice—and how it’s transforming schools at the classroom, district, and even state policy level.
You’ll hear how students and adults work side-by-side through youth participatory action research (YPAR), how mindset shifts unlock authentic partnership, and how this work has influenced initiatives like statewide conversations on school safety, graduation requirements, and student voice advisories across multiple states.
This conversation goes far beyond “student voice.” It’s about shared decision-making, shared responsibility, and shared leadership to reimagine what education can be.
What You’ll Learn
- What youth–adult partnership really means (beyond student voice)
- How mental model shifts are the first step to transforming schools
- Why schools must move from adult-centered to partnership-centered systems
- Real examples of students shaping state education policy
- How restorative practices, YPAR, and belonging intersect
- A simple reflection educators can use tomorrow to start partnering with students
- How personalized learning, project-based learning, and flexible pathways connect to partnership
Timestamps
- 00:00 Introduction to UP for Learning’s mission
- 05:00 What educational equity looks like in partnership
- 11:00 The mindset shift adults must make
- 19:00 Personal stories of transformation through partnership
- 25:00 State and district policy work led by youth–adult teams
- 32:00 One thing educators can do tomorrow
- 34:30 How to connect with UP for Learning
Get Your Episode Freebie & More Resources On My Website: https://www.lindsaybethlyons.com/blog/256
Connect with guests Ana, Jacoby, Lindsey
- Learn more: UPforLearning.org