Making a Difference Together
Community Engagement
We prioritize teaching students the value of belonging and contributing to society through community engagement. The support we offer within our school extends to our neighborhoods, the Bay Area, and beyond. Our students are encouraged to be active contributors and leaders, recognizing that their efforts can make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.
Grades 7-12
At Upper Campus, community engagement is a key component of our students’ educational journey. Each student is required to complete 20 hours of community service annually, but many go beyond this requirement. Our students contribute to a wide range of initiatives, including:
- Environmental conservation: Working with organizations dedicated to preserving local ecosystems and promoting sustainable practices.
- Social services: Supporting organizations that provide vital services to underserved communities, such as food banks, shelters, and health clinics.
- Educational outreach: Assisting in educational programs for younger students or those in need of additional academic support.
- Animal welfare: Volunteering with shelters and rescue organizations to care for animals and promote adoption.
Grades 3-6
For our Middle Campus students, community engagement goes a step further. Each year, students partner with a local organization for a year-long collaboration that deepens their understanding of community needs and their ability to contribute meaningfully. This partnership involves:
- Education: Representatives from the organization visit Pinewood to educate our students about their mission and work.
- Hands-On Experience: Students visit the organization to observe its operations and better understand the challenges it addresses.
- Active Involvement: Throughout the year, students engage in raising awareness and collecting donations for the organization, working together with teachers, families, and the broader Pinewood community to support a common cause.
This sustained engagement helps students build a strong, personal connection with the organization and its mission, making their service more impactful and meaningful.
Grades K-2
Starting from the earliest grades, our students learn the importance of supporting others. Each year, our Lower Campus students take part in donation drives during the holiday season. These drives support a variety of local organizations, including family resource centers, animal shelters, and other community service groups. These experiences teach our young learners about compassion and the tangible impact of their efforts.