This project by students from the Youth in Action Club at New Brunswick Middle School, advocates for the return of student lockers, which have been unavailable since 2020. Through surveys, interviews, and research, students highlighted how the lack of lockers causes physical strain, disorganization, and emotional frustration. They addressed potential concerns like hallway congestion and messy lockers with practical solutions. The group proposes a plan for fair and safe locker use, aiming to improve students’ school experience starting next year.

This project proposes ways to improve school lunches. Surveys, interviews, and focus groups revealed that most students buy lunch regularly but rate it poorly—citing concerns over quality, portion sizes, and price. Fifth through eighth graders said they want healthier, tastier, and more diverse food options that better reflect their nutritional needs and cultural backgrounds. While cafeteria staff and the principal acknowledged student concerns, they noted limitations imposed by the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) guidelines. The team recommended forming a student-led “Food Committee,” exploring alternative lunch vendors, and presenting their findings to the Board of Education.

Students from the Youth in Action Club at New Brunswick Middle School, wanted to provide emergency kits for classrooms. The kits are designed to address minor health and hygiene needs, containing items like Band-Aids, pads, water, and gum. The team gathered data through surveys and interviews, then contacted local organizations and businesses for support and donations. Their next steps include distributing the kits, creating an informational brochure, and establishing a backup supply station.

This project addressed the need for more variety in sports offerings at Butler Middle School. Through surveys, focus groups, and an interview with the principal, they gathered strong support for adding clubs and teams such as volleyball, pickleball, soccer, and softball. Their data showed that many students believe sports could improve grades, foster friendships, and promote leadership and teamwork. The principal expressed enthusiasm for expanding sports and emphasized starting with ones that already have equipment available. They plan to present their findings to the Board of Education and continue advocating for greater sport variety at their school.

This project analyzes how academic stress—caused by homework, tests, quizzes, and public speaking—affects focus, grades, and overall mental well-being. Survey data revealed that the majority of 5th through 8th graders feel stressed very often, with tests ranking as the top stressor across all grades. The team proposed solutions like limiting homework, pushing back school start times, and staggering test days to reduce academic overload. Their research highlights the need for systemic changes to help students thrive emotionally and academically.

Food insecurity is a nationwide issue. In this project, a group of students from Steinhauer Elementary School investigated this issue within their own community. Through student surveys they learned more about their access to balanced meals and fresh foods. Action steps to ensuring that food insecurity is not an issue in their school included awareness posters, food maps, and the collection of unused, non-perishable food items from breakfast to add to their school's existing food pantry.