In the Lower School the students began by discussing the meaning of human rights with their families as a homework assignment that they later discussed in class. Then the students embarked on a “literature circle” where a variety of age-appropriate books were explored on topics ranging from child labor to Ruby Bridge’s story. Students performed a webquest on Dr. Martin Luther King and learned sign language with Head of Lower School, Maggie Granados. The day closed with a general assembly where the various threads of the day were brought together.

In the Middle School the students kicked off the day with a general assembly on the rights of children. Next they enjoyed a performance by Strings for Schools, called the Spice Route. A part of the Philadelphia Arts Education Partnership (PAEP), the group showcased a Jewish/Arab program that explored Middle Eastern traditions in an effort to mirror cultural coordination. Next the student body divided into small hands-on discussion groups facilitated by teachers and students on the themes related to children’s issues.  School-wide yoga allowed the students to quietly reflect on the morning. Afternoon workshops, similar to the morning workshops, followed. The day culminated in a doll-making service project where the students created muslin dolls, decorated with fabrics and trims, to be donated to local shelters for homeless families. The day closed with a student-led discussion.

In the Upper School, the day opened with a keynote presentation from Arthur Donato, esq., a criminal defense attorney and president of the Trial Lawyers Defense Association where he gave an overview of justice and the justice system. Students then broke into small discussion groups led by a large variety of respected activists, lawyers and educators. Topics ranged from an exploration of constitutional law by Villanova Law Professor Burton Caine, to a look at the death penalty with American Friends Service representative, Brooke Matschek and a lively look at the justice system by former Prosecutor for the District Attorney’s Office, Wendy Alloy, who specializes in the prosecution of child abusers and violent offenders in Philadelphia. Students then watched a movie clip focusing on victim’s rights vs. criminal rights. Time for discussion with advisories was then followed by the game “Wheels of Justice” designed by Shipley art teacher, Steve Baris. The day ended with a presentation by radio personality, community activist and Head of the Ex-Offenders Association of Philadelphia, Malik Aziz and his friend and fellow activist, Philadelphia Police Commissioner Sylvester Johnson.