Written by Sydney Comire ’21
Races were run, eggs were tossed, soccer and tennis skills were put to the test, as students started off DEIJ week with the well loved tradition of The Cultural Olympics. Students topped off the Olympics with a photo booth “I am, but I am not” activity where they were asked to write down something they identify with/as and something they break within the stereotypes surrounding said identifier. For example, “I am tall, but I still wear heels” or “I’m Italian, but I don’t like pizza”.
On Tuesday, within dorm/day student groups, students attended DEIJ workshops set up and led by Student Service Learning Leaders. Workshops included, “Education and Equity”, “How Diverse is your Universe?”, and “Gender in Sports”. Within their individual workshops, students participated in activities to broaden their knowledge of Diversity, Equality, Inclusion, or Justice related topics.
On Wednesday, students learned about why we shouldn’t use “The R Word”.
On Thursday, students will participate in a joint Fashion and Talent Show to represent their Dorm/Day Student teams, something they’ve been working on throughout the week. Students will showcase their talents and will walk the catwalk in fashion that represents their culture.
Could you imagine living on $2 a day or staying silent for a whole day? On Friday, students have the opportunity to try both those things when participating in The Day of Silence and $2 a Day activities, also led by student Service Learning Leaders.
Overall exciting things are happening!
About DEIJ Week at The Winchendon School:
Why Are We Here and Who Are We Helping?
Inquiry drives a Winchendon School education. Our students dive deeply into learning how their service can provide meaningful change. Designed by students, the activities supporting the workshops during the week asked two essential questions: Why are we here? Who are we helping?
