Another year of TCS students serving others officially kicked off this past Saturday, November 20th, with the first of several Service Saturdays set to happen this academic year. While some student volunteers spent their time helping community partners with outdoor work, other student volunteers found themselves in campus buildings, supporting the efforts of the TCS sustainability office.
A keen group of students dedicated their Saturday to help the Northumberland Land Trust in cleaning up the shoreline at the Jack van Nostrand Nature Reserve. Northumberland Land Trust is an organization committed to preserving the natural, historical and cultural heritage of Northumberland County. Students were able to volunteer alongside retired former TCS faculty member, Mr. John Geale, who currently sits on the board of the Northumberland Land Trust. Another group of eager student volunteers travelled to Newtonville’s Haute Goat where they helped with the setup and preparation for Ye Olde Haute Goat Festive Market, undertaking yard work and assisting with the farm’s animals as well.
Back on the TCS campus, the sustainability office worked with students to do an EcoSchools Campus Overhaul. Participants earned points towards our platinum level EcoSchools certification which TCS has committed to for the fifth year in a row! Students assisted Ms. Elliott and Ms. Cole in conducting an eco-audit of all the classrooms and common spaces on campus, just one of many continuous “green” initiatives taking place at the School.
Thank you to the students who gave of their time and thanks also to the members of our service learning team and to Ms. Collins who helped to organize and/or chaperone the service sites. Senior School students are encouraged to commit to lending a hand during the next Service Saturday, scheduled for December 11th, at which time help will be greatly needed to pack Christmas food hampers.
