4 minute read
Building a Culture of Service
Progress and Updates on Our Civic Engagement Initiative
By Dr. Bob Troy, Director of Civic Engagement
In the Spring 2023 issue of Autumn Views, we announced the launch of a school-wide Civic Engagement Initiative, made possible through the generosity of private philanthropy. Now in its second year, the Civic Engagement Initiative is built on the foundation of existing community service activities while striving to establish deeper, reciprocal, and transformational relationships with community partners.
Guided by the program’s statement of purpose, we aim to continue inspiring students to develop authentic and innovative solutions for social impact, sharpening critical thinking skills and growing toward lives of empathy, purpose, and engaged citizenship.
Honoring the Past, Shaping the Future
St. Anne’s-Belfield has long embraced community service as a cornerstone of education. From longstanding service requirements to the inspiring work of individuals and groups of students, we’ve witnessed a wide spectrum of contributions.
One shining example is the tradition of service embedded in certain varsity teams and clubs. These groups have excelled in their primary pursuits and demonstrated a genuine commitment to giving back. Their efforts inspire us to think creatively about how we can expand and enhance service opportunities across all levels and interests.
Like any meaningful endeavor, however, there is always room to grow. Our goal is to nurture deeper engagement, providing all students with opportunities to connect meaningfully with their work and the community.
Building a Robust Culture of Service
To achieve a culture of service that permeates every aspect of school life, we are focusing on these key targets:
Increase Service-Learning Opportunities: This pedagogy integrates community service into our program, with initiatives such as Upper School Grade-level Experiences, the Civic Engagement Pathway diploma certification, Middle School Quests, and Lower School units partnering with International Neighbors. These programs allow students to explore community needs, collaborate with external organizations, and gain profound insights through reflection into societal issues and yourself.
Recognize and Enhance Service to the School: Equally important is the work students do within our own community. These contributions, often voluntary, enrich our school’s environment and reinforce the importance of tending to one another. From peer tutoring programs to volunteer groups and Bronze/Silver/Gold Key Ambassadors, students are already making meaningful contributions. We aim to expand these opportunities, creating a broader range of tasks and activities that invite more students to engage actively in school life.
Strengthen the Culture of Service: Our vision for a culture of service is one that involves everyone — students, faculty, staff, and families alike. As a next step, faculty and staff have been asked for their input and ideas. What opportunities exist already for students to make a difference within our school? How can we better recognize and celebrate their efforts? Their insights will help identify new and creative ways to strengthen our school community while gaining a deeper understanding of its inner workings.
Looking Ahead with Gratitude
As we embark on this exciting chapter, we do so with immense pride in what has already been achieved and gratitude for the support of our community. Together, we are creating a culture where service is not just an expectation, but a shared value that enhances all. We look forward to the expanding opportunities ahead as the Civic Engagement Initiative continues to take flight.
