Middle and high school students attended the CHHANGE Colloquium at Brookdale, #voyagerscommunityschool #avoyageofdiscovery #monmouthcountynj #monmouthcountynj #where this year’s theme was The Art of Dialogue. The keynote speakers emphasized the importance of engaging in meaningful conversations, especially when faced with differing opinions. They encouraged students to listen actively, speak thoughtfully, and approach dialogue with curiosity and respect. When practiced with intention, this kind of communication fosters understanding, empathy, and the potential for meaningful social change. Following the keynote, students participated in a variety of breakout sessions covering topics such as the war in Ukraine, the Rwandan genocide, LGBTQ+ rights and history, and the powerful stories of Holocaust survivors and heroes. While the subjects varied, a unifying thread ran through the sessions which allowed us to process and discuss upon our return to school. Sessions that focused on historical events offered context for current global challenges, while others were more action-oriented, equipping students with advocacy skills and tools to raise awareness in their own communities. After lunch, students visited the gallery exhibit, where they were proud to see their own posters displayed alongside those from other schools. It was inspiring to view the diverse and creative interpretations of this year’s prompt and to recognize the shared commitment to exploring difficult and important issues through art and dialogue. Overall, it was a powerful and thought-provoking day—one that challenged students to reflect, connect, and grow both personally and collectively. (fb)

Another incredible annual camping trip in the books! 🏕️ From hiking trails to lake adventures and classic playground fun, every moment was filled with energy and joy. As the fire crackled and dusk settled in, we laughed through charades, sang around the campfire, and savored s’mores under the stars. Our students were the heart of it all—cooking meals, cleaning up, tending the fire, and making sure we left our site better than we found it. They faced the darkness with flashlights and bravery during manhunt, and improvised skits that had us all in stitches. We wrapped it all up with a final hike and peaceful sit spot reflections, where students shared their favorite memories from the year. Grateful for this time together in nature and the bonds built without screens—just stories, laughter, and connection. #VoyagersCampingTrip #OutdoorEducation #CommunityInNature #LearningByDoing #ProjectWeekReady (fb)