Empowering Responsible Citizens

Empowering Responsible Citizens: Cultivating Civic Engagement in Students

By Michael Szarek, Assistant Head of School - Advancement
 

At The Hudson School (THS), the education experience transcends textbooks and classrooms.

It's a holistic journey that not only imparts knowledge but also instills a sense of responsibility and civic engagement in our students. 

We believe that cultivating responsible citizens is at the core of our educational philosophy – and we actively nurture this through various immersive experiences. The following are a few examples. 
 

The World Peace Game: Navigating Global Challenges

One exceptional example of civic engagement at THS is our participation in the World Peace Game. This unique, immersive and hands-on political simulation invites students from diverse backgrounds to delve deep into the complexities of the global community. 

In this game, our students face a world filled with intricate economic, social and environmental crises, all while grappling with the looming threat of war. Their mission: to rescue nations from perilous situations and achieve worldwide prosperity, with a primary emphasis on diplomacy over military intervention.

The World Peace Game was introduced to THS under the guidance of our Performing Arts Department Chair Viv Hasbrouk and retired Middle School Teacher Catharine Baldwin, who both completed master classes with John Hunter, the world renowned educator who invented and founded the game. Hunter’s hope, according to Hasbrouck, is that if even one student learns a creative problem solving skill or collaborative conflict resolution concept, they may save us all. 

Operating as "nation teams," students quickly grasp the pivotal role of information and its strategic use in global affairs. They learn the profound impact of their decisions, fostering a deep sense of responsibility for the wellbeing of nations and the world as a whole. 

The World Peace Game isn't just a simulation. It's a profound lesson in global citizenship.

“For our students, The Game gives them an opportunity to engage in empathy in action,” says Habsrouck, who is now an Advanced Independent Facilitator of the World Peace Game. “For me, The WPG is more than a pedagogical game or teaching method, it has been a re-introduction to hope, where every game reminds us of the exhilarating awareness that we truly have the capacity to learn, express and embody the strongest essence of kindness and compassion for a world that desperately needs just that."
 

Service Projects: Learning Empathy Through Action

Another cornerstone of civic engagement at THS is our commitment to service projects. We believe that understanding the impact of one's actions on others is fundamental to fostering compassion and social responsibility. 

Building a foundation on compassion begins when children are younger, and we ensure that THS instills this notion of empathy by starting with our younger students.

Our middle school students participated in LOTS, “Lunch On The Students.” Every Friday, the middle schoolers are prompted to bring in a brown-bagged lunch to donate to the Hoboken Shelter. Our middle school homeroom representatives assisted THS middle school counselor Ms. Williams in transporting the lunches.

This also came with another vital life lesson: friendly competition. The grades competed to see who can bring the most bags. Last year, the 8th grade class won by bringing in 230 lunches throughout the school year.

Another heartwarming example comes from our senior class, who initiated a touching service project aimed at supporting local preschool children.

Recognizing the needs of our neighbors, these seniors decided to purchase backpacks for these young learners, ensuring they had the essential tools for a successful start to their educational journey. However, this project went beyond backpacks. It became a community effort. Each grade in the upper school enthusiastically contributed by bringing in a wide range of school supplies, from crayons and notebooks to pencils and erasers.

Our students, by engaging in these service projects, experience personal growth and cultivate a profound sense of purpose. They witness firsthand the transformative impact they can have on their community. Through these experiences, students nurture a deep sense of empathy, recognizing that even the smallest actions can create substantial positive change in the lives of others.
 

Environmental Studies: Stewardship of Our Planet

Environmental studies play a crucial role in cultivating responsible citizens at THS. Our students actively engage in projects aimed at restoring riverfronts and preserving natural areas in our local community. These initiatives instill a deep appreciation for the environment and a sense of responsibility for its protection.

For example, our students have been involved in riverfront restoration efforts, where they've learned about the delicate balance of ecosystems and the importance of environmental conservation. By taking an active role in these projects, they not only contribute to the betterment of their community but also gain a profound understanding of the importance of stewardship when it comes to our planet.
 

Join Us On This Journey

At The Hudson School, we know a robust, complete education goes well beyond the classroom. It's about empowering students to become responsible citizens who are actively engaged in their communities and the world. 

Through engaging experiences such as World Peace Day, service projects that foster empathy and environmental studies that promote stewardship, we are equipping our students with the knowledge, skills and values they need to make a positive impact on society. 

We invite you to join us in this journey of cultivating responsible citizens who are prepared to shape a better future for all.
 

Get in touch with us to explore how your child can become a part of our civic-minded learning community. Your journey towards educational excellence starts here.