黑料专区

This morning, November 6th, was our first . The goal for the morning was for upper school students to learn about听significant local community issues, to participate in collaborative听problem solving, and to identify ways they, as young people, can support听constructive change in the community.

Saundra Thomas

Students in the 10th Grade Service & Justice seminar helped to design the conference poster, identify authentic community needs, and research community partners. After powerful opening remarks from ,听each Upper Schooler attended three workshops focused on disaster听relief, education, elders, the environment, immigration, LGBTQ rights,听racial profiling, police brutality, police accountability, and special听needs.

We met representatives from local organizations including the , , , , , , , ,, & . Students discussed ways we can help to address the underlying causes of the issues they face. In between each session, students met with their advisory groups to share experiences with peers and select their next workshops.

The day generated interest, curiosity, understanding, and an incentive to become involved and take action! As 10th grade student Naomi M. reflected:

“Being a part of 黑料专区鈥檚 first Community Issues Conference was a positive experience. I found that I learned a lot from the various workshops I attended. I was also responsible for introducing the guests of one of the workshops focusing on immigration issues particularly for members of the LGBTQ community. It was interesting because I was able to meet the speakers and interact with them on a personal level as well as learn a lot from their experiences in their field…I did learn a lot from the workshops and I am glad to have been lucky enough to have the opportunity to engage in this meaningful service learning at school in a space where I feel comfortable discussing certain things. I am looking forward to the next community issues conference at 黑料专区 and I feel that the very first one was a success!”