COMMUNITY

 The development of community is the essential foundation to IGSS. The teachers spend a significant amount of time getting to know students; with six teachers in the room, it is much easier to have one-on-one conversations. We are very conscious of helping students develop relationships with each other, in part because when they feel safe and respected, they are more willing to take academic and personal risks, which is of tremendous value to our community of learners. Students often tell us that the IGSS community was the first time they felt valued and understood at school.

Some of our community building takes place during school hours, through House competitions, student teach-ins, and intentional group work, but we also take an annual camping trip, have a lock-in, and host other activities that are optional and take place outside of school hours.

Below, you’ll find images from some of our community building activities.