xvii. activities program
Activities Program There are over 30 club activities from which US students may choose that provide them with opportunities for leadership, collaboration, and personal development not typically found in their academic courses. Many of our clubs have long associations with the School, while others reflect the interests of students who choose to form a new club. Meeting times are scheduled during morning break or lunch on a rotating basis, and students generally are able to participate in more than one activity in the rotation period of the schedule. The following clubs and activities are offered, divided into five distinct categories: •• Community Service and Humanitarian Causes •• Leadership •• Student Publications •• Educational Enrichment •• Personal Interests COMMUNITY SERVICE AND HUMANITARIAN CAUSES Amnesty International
The purpose of this student organization is to raise the level of awareness within the school community of human rights and of how these rights are infringed upon in today’s global socio-political arena. The club communicates regularly with representatives of Amnesty International and receives information on violations of human rights. Club members share knowledge of such violations and write letters of appeal. Presently the club is actively engaged in the Amnesty Regional Action Network and a special focus case. Build on
The purpose of this student organization is to enhance education and empower youth in the United States to make a positive difference in their communities while helping people of developing countries increase their self-reliance through education. Build On achieves its mission thanks to a team of many dedicated student and adult volunteers, project coordinators, teachers, and Build On staff who commit themselves to learning about others and themselves through cultural educa-
2011-2012 Upper School Program Guide
tion, community service activities, and sponsorship events. Students are required to participate in community service activities every month. This club is open to students in all grades. Canstruction
The purpose of this student organization is to combine the spirit of a design/building competition with a unique way to help feed the hungry. Competing teams, led by architects and engineers, showcase their talents by designing giant sculptures made entirely of canned foods. At the close of the exhibitions, all of the food used in the structures is donated to local food banks for distribution to pantries, shelters, soup kitchens, elderly and day care centers. This club is open to all grades, and is a great way to combine a love of architecture, math, and design with community service. Gay/Straight Alliance (GSA)
The purpose of this student organization is to promote understanding and acceptance, combat homophobia, and raise awareness of the difficulties and issues affecting LGBT people. These are parts of an overall goal to create an inclusive and safe environment in our school. The club sponsors events and fundraisers during the year. Environmental Club
The purpose of this student organization is to inform and educate the school community about the environment, with heavy emphasis on global warming, and to take action to help the local and global environment. The club seeks to have an activist orientation. Helping Other People Excel (HOPE)
The purpose of this student organization is to participate in community service opportunities within and beyond our community. HOPE completes service projects in which members participate and encourage non-members to come in order to experience the benefits of helping others. To receive credit for partipating in the club, students must attend at least three of the monthly projects during the year, and bring at least one non-member to a community service opportunity.
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