Pike at a Glance

Upper School Affinity and Multicultural Groups

Young adolescents have a strong desire to explore their identity and place in their community. Part of a young person’s identity is connected to their heritage or cultural background. In the Upper School, students have two kinds of forums in which to explore these issues. Open to all students in Upper School and led by Mary Crockett and Amy Salvatore, the Multicultural Group provides an opportunity for students of all backgrounds to discuss the issues that affect all of us with regard to race, ethnicity, and culture. For students of color, the Affinity Group provides a safe place to discuss their individual experiences in the community. This group is led by Kavita Mundra and Betsy DeVries. -–Laura Russell, Head of Upper School

Affinity group students reflected on their experiences.

One goal I accomplished in affinity group was…
“Understanding how discrimination really works.”
“Getting close to new people.”
“Getting my thoughts out there.”
“Being a leader.”
“Talking more about my skin color and background and accepting who I am.”

My best experience in affinity group was…
“Speaking to the faculty.”
“When we got into deep conversations.”
“Going to the AISNE Diversity Conference.”
“Our group discussions.”

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AISNE Diversity Conference
by Sydney Bagley '09

On April 12th, the multi-cultural and affinity groups went to Meadowbrook School for a diversity conference. At first all of the Pike students were quiet and wanted to stay with Pike people. Most of us stayed with friends and tried not to fall asleep. It was a Saturday morning and we had to be at Pike at 8am, the morning after the dance. Some of us wondered why we had come here on a Saturday morning and why we were “wasting” a day off. But as the day went on, we could see that we were very wrong. We signed up for a variety of workshops that included beading, hip-hop, salsa, conflict resolution, poetry and identity. We met other students from schools all over New England and by lunchtime some of us were hanging out with new friends. We heard personal stories about the struggle for equality from our key-note speaker. Students from other schools sang and acted out skits focusing on diversity.  Next year, we want to encourage students to join either Affinity or Multi Cultural group, or both.  It was worth getting up for on a Saturday morning. See photos.

"The AISNE Middle School Diversity Conference helps middle school students better understand themselves and their peers through reflection, dialogue and exposure to different cultures. The conference is open to all middle school students. The day will begin with a short film followed by discussion groups, then workshops, lunch, more workshops and a closing program with a speaker, entertainment and a chance for students to say what’s on their minds. Workshops will include topics such as: African American Poetry; Exploring Art Through Collage; Music and Diversity; Native American Beading; Hip Hop Music and Culture; Learn to Salsa; Hip Hop Dancing; Hip Hop Music; Project Challenge; and Conflict Resolution."
--AISNE Web site

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Second International Potluck Supper
Upper School affinity and multicultural group students attended the second annual International Potluck Supper.  They interacted with Pike graduates and engaged in fruitful conversation at their tables about topics such as affinity and multicultural groups, white privilege and socio-economic diversity.  Alumni shared their diversity experiences both during and after Pike.  Upper School students presented their ideas about the past, present and future diversity efforts at Pike.  Additionally, they spoke about how both the affinity and multicultural groups have provided support as they develop their identities.  Our students were encouraged to speak candidly and to ask questions. See photos.