Lower School Marketplace Inspires Global Perspective Among Students

This week, Episcopal fifth graders proved that together they can make a difference in the world.  Students recently transformed the Greer Center into a global marketplace, complete with cultural music and costumes.  Students sold handcrafted items ranging from pot holders and bracelets to slime and even homemade butter. The marketplace raised nearly $3,500, which will be donated to Heifer International to support the purchase of livestock for residents in poverty-stricken third world nations.  

The marketplace event marked the end of a project-based learning unit on the people, cultures, climate and conditions of Africa, Asia, Europe and the Americas.  Students heard from guest speakers including Upper School Head Dr. Spree McDonald, who spoke about his personal travels to Africa. Chef Pat also discussed the lifestyles of the people who live in these regions, even providing a lesson on making butter.  Throughout the unit, students discussed how poverty impacts people throughout the world. To reiterate that message, School Instigator Betsy Minton and a representative from Heifer International spoke to the students about the positive impact that livestock can have on a village.  Students were inspired to take action, and thus, the global marketplace idea was born.

Episcopal truly has a global reach.  Students are learning about their role on planet earth and taking action, such as the recent global marketplace, to make a difference. As the fifth graders complete their lesson, students are currently writing persuasive pieces expressing how they would like to see the Heifer International donation allocated.  Earlier this year third grade students raised money with their annual variety show to support the Episcopal Relief and Development Fund. The fund provides livestock and emergency supplies to countries around the world. In addition, sixth graders raised money during field day to help provide access to water for the people of Sudan. Students are also making a difference locally.  Seventh and eighth graders supported Friends of the Animals and Support Our War Heroes with their field day activities.

Episcopal’s commitment to service and making a difference in the world is just one way students are being called to lead purposeful and meaningful lives.