FAMILY INVOLVEMENT AT HVWS

Giving back to the community is greatly valued at the Housatonic Valley Waldorf School. Students are encouraged to get involved with other organizations that positively impact their neighborhoods and the world. Community Service not only helps others in the community, it also helps HVWS students—both academically and emotionally—by expanding their worldview, developing empathy and leadership skills, and realizing how their actions can have an impact and create lasting change. They also return to the classroom realizing how what they’re learning applies to the real world, which reinvigorates their passion for learning.

The Importance of Community Service at Our Independent Day School

Engaging with the community helps students and their families at our independent day school create bonds with one another and their neighbors. It also boasts additional benefits:

• Social Benefits: Students who participate in our community service opportunities have the chance to build their social skills and practice working as part of a group. This can benefit children in multiple ways, from improving their academic performance to boosting their interpersonal skills.
• Confidence Boost: If your child is shy or has trouble meeting new people, volunteering will give them an excellent opportunity to build their skills. Community service for young students boosts self-confidence, self-esteem, and a sense of accomplishment.
• Cognitive Benefits: Volunteering as part of our independent day school helps students cognitively by helping them grow from new experiences, expand their knowledge, build communication skills, and practice empathy. Volunteers gain practical skills and develop new interests.
• Remain Active: Volunteering provides physical benefits by keeping students and other participants active. This can help reduce the risk of obesity, lessen the symptoms of depression, and create a foundation for a healthier lifestyle.

If you want to learn more about how engaging with the community benefits the students at our independent day school, don’t hesitate to reach out to learn more.

Giving the Gift of Warmth

Each November, the HVWS Lantern Walk Festival allows students of all ages, along with their families, to gather in song and quiet reflection for a nighttime candle-lit walk through the campus. The Lantern Walk commemorates the Martinmas holiday, in honor of St. Martin, a tired but generous soldier who climbed off his horse, tore his own cloak in two, and shared it with a cold and wet stranger shivering in the rainy night.

In the spirit of Martinmas, HVWS will collect new or gently used winter coats, hats, mittens, and scarves for adults and children to donate them to someone in need. This winter wear drive will be donated to a local charity.

A collection bin will be located in the Admin Cottage October 20 – November 10. Thank you for your generosity.