Civic Engagement Day
Just before Election Day in late October, Upper School students came together to participate in Civic Engagement Day—a unique program in which students discussed voting, rhetoric, the implications of past presidential elections, and major issues that were on the ballot. Grouped by grades, the students watched news clips and participated in talkbacks throughout the morning before an early dismissal at noon. Lesson plans for the discussions were prepared by Director of Experiential Learning Nick Francis and members of the Upper School faculty. Civic Engagement Day was part of an initiative driven by Seven Hills’ E. E. Ford Grant, a prestigious dollar-for-dollar matching grant of $250,000 given to Seven Hills in 2019. “I think that setting time aside for this kind of experience sends a message about the importance of civic engagement and the responsibility that comes with living in a democracy,” said Head of Upper School Matt Bolton.