This evening at 1800,
participants from ISACS boarded the Ernestina as part of the
2003 Youth Leadership Institute.
ISACS, the Independent Schools Association of the
Central States, is a membership organization of over 200
schools from the Midwest region that assists schools in
preserving their freedom to practice philosophies of
education. The
program this week is termed a “voyage of discovery about
American diversity and pluralism.” Using the Ernestina as a platform for education, students
will face the challenge of close living quarters while
participating in small group discussions and sessions related
to diversity and leadership.
Prior to boarding, students spent time at Harvard
University learning about pluralism and web-based resources.
Along with the student
participants, 11 chaperones boarded the ship along with
representatives from Teens Against Gang Violence. After a brief below decks orientation, participants took part
in a session that dealt with addressing racism and prejudice
back at school. Students
discussed specific challenges people faced in dealing with
these issues. At
the end of the evening, some of the leaders of the group
departed for the night, and the participants turned into their
bunks.
Program Goal onboard the
Ernestina:
To
use close living and cooperative work to teach a diverse group
of students how to build community through stereotypes.
Program Coordinator:
Gretchen Stuppy
ISACS President: John Braman
Captain: Sophie Morse
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