Abington Friends School recently welcomed nationally recognized educator and speaker Rosetta Lee to campus to speak on what it takes to build strong human systems in schools that nurture young people as they grow.
Lee helps communities engage in meaningful conversations about identity, belonging, and inclusion, encouraging us to reflect on how we understand our own identities, how we affirm and support one another, and how we can recognize and challenge exclusion.
Lee’s visit was an inspiring way to prepare for “Conscious Communities,” AFS’s cross-divisional initiative focused on making sure every student feels seen, valued, and empowered. Each week, students participate in affinity groups that focus on aspects of identity such as race, gender, and religion. These spaces provide room for self-exploration, the celebration of individuality, and the building of shared understanding and belonging across the school community.
A group of students in eighth grade had a special meeting with Lee, where they asked questions about how to model leadership for their younger peers.
“One of the most effective ways of bringing up the next group of leaders is by giving them small bites of leadership,” Lee told them. “Give them ownership and accountability. Let them field the questions, but always make yourself available to help.”
Meanwhile, upper-school students explored the distinctions between interest groups, affinity spaces, and alliance spaces. By learning the language for this important work, students were able to reflect on what it means to engage meaningfully with peers across differences.
Learning how to be true friends is central to AFS’s mission. “Conscious Communities” is one expression of this practice and offers students a framework to deepen their awareness of self and others and strengthen the bonds of community.
Learn more about Abington Friends School and its mission to cultivate intellectual excellence, foster strength of character, and support the growth of each student’s unique talents.
