Highland Stories
Highland Sophomores Put Mission Into Action
At Highland School, learning extends beyond classroom walls to embrace a larger purpose: preparing students to thrive, lead, and serve in a diverse and dynamic world. This fall, Highland launched its inaugural Sophomore Service Sampler field study, an immersive, two-part experience designed to deepen students' understanding of socio-economic challenges right here in Fauquier County while empowering them to be active participants in disrupting the cycle of generational poverty.
Unpacking the Cycle of Poverty
Before stepping off campus, sophomores engaged in two foundational lessons exploring systemic economic challenges. Through an interactive generational budget activity, students experienced firsthand how living paycheck to paycheck leaves families vulnerable when unexpected emergencies, such as a sudden car breakdown or a medical bill, strike. The lesson highlighted how financial security, or the lack thereof, carries across generations through inheritance and opportunity, shaping long-term family stability.
Complementing this activity, students examined historical events and economic shifts that have influenced the local socio-economic landscape in Fauquier County. By connecting global and regional history to everyday realities, sophomores gained a compassionate, nuanced framework for understanding why food insecurity, housing challenges, and resource gaps exist within their own community.
Partners in Impact: Hands-On Field Studies
Following their classroom exploration, students were introduced to three vital local non-profit organizations working tirelessly to interrupt the cycle of poverty: Fauquier FISH, Fauquier Education Farm, and the Fauquier Community Coalition. Sophomores chose two of these organizations for their field study service, rolling up their sleeves to contribute directly to their efforts:
- Fauquier FISH: At the food pantry, students packed meal kits, sorted provisions, and organized stations to prepare for the next wave of community volunteers.
- Fauquier Education Farm: Students worked outdoors, clearing and preparing sweet potato beds for harvest and gathering cut flowers, contributing directly to fresh produce distribution for local families.
- Fauquier Community Coalition: Sophomores chopped, split, and stacked firewood, ensuring low-income families will have reliable warmth throughout the coming winter.
Reflections on Character and Community
The experience left a lasting impression on the Class of 2029. By connecting academic concepts with real-world service, students developed greater empathy, an appreciation for community collaboration, and a deeper connection to Highland's mission.
Reflecting on the day, sophomores shared how the experience changed their perspectives:
"I knew about the cycle of poverty and how it affects people, but I never knew how much effect these different organizations had for only one place. It made me think about how many people are able to get help because of amazing people."
"I realized exactly to what extent I take little aspects of my life for granted... Knowing that what I am doing actually serves a very important purpose made it worth all the while."
"I realized that doing those kinds of acts of service makes me feel really good and a part of my community... even small acts of service can make a huge impact on people's lives."
Through the Sophomore Service Sampler, Highland students proved that serving others is not just a graduation requirement, but an essential skill for leading with character and compassion in a dynamic world.
Highland School is a co-ed independent Pre-K2 to Grade 12 day school located in Warrenton, Virginia.
597 Broadview Avenue, Warrenton, Virginia 20186
General: 540-878-2700 | Fax: 540-878-2731 | Admission: 540-878-2740
journey@highlandschool.org
General: 540-878-2700 | Fax: 540-878-2731 | Admission: 540-878-2740
journey@highlandschool.org
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