Windward kicked off the school year with the first Core Group meetings, a key part of the School’s Begin with Belonging initiative, now entering its third year. Designed to bring together students in Grades 7–12, Core Groups foster meaningful connections across divisions while giving older students the opportunity to step into leadership roles.
During Community Time on the first Friday of the year, students gathered in their assigned groups and rooms to take on the “Fahrenheit 451 Team-Building Challenge,” an activity developed by the English Department and the Big Windward Read Leadership Team. The challenge asked groups to race against the clock—and each other—to solve a series of puzzles inspired by the novel.
Faculty were on hand to support when needed, but much of the facilitation was led by Juniors and Seniors, who prepared their leadership skills during orientation week. The activity not only offered an energetic and collaborative start to the year but also set the stage for the upcoming Big Windward Read on Monday, Sept. 22.
Core Groups will continue to meet throughout the year, building community, encouraging collaboration, and ensuring that every Windwardian has a place to belong.