Equity & Belonging

Each year, the Lycée’s Day of Understanding brings together students, families, and faculty to celebrate the diversity that defines our school community.

This initiative is much larger than a single day of celebration. By the time the Day of Understanding comes around, students across Elementary and Preschool have already spent weeks exploring themes such as identity, family, belonging, languages, and cultural traditions through discussions, creative projects, and performances in their classrooms.

On the day itself, families are invited to campus to experience and participate in this work. Students typically share songs, presentations, and classroom projects that reflect their personal stories and the many cultures represented at the Lycée. Families are then invited to take part—whether through classroom activities, exhibitions of student work, or moments of shared celebration such as breakfast or performances.

These exchanges encourage dialogue and invite students to see both the differences and the common values within their community. Through the Day of Understanding, students develop a new way to listen, share, and reflect on the experiences of others. This project helps them gain deeper appreciation for the many backgrounds and perspectives that enrich life at the Lycée.

Each year, the Lycée dedicates a full day to the life and legacy of James Baldwin, offering students in Grades 10 to 12 the opportunity to step away from their regular classes and engage in reflection, conversation, and creative work.

Unique among schools in the United States, this student-led initiative, organized in collaboration with the Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging department, transforms the campus into a space for exchange and exploration of how our community can practice and honor Baldwin’s philosophies.

Guided by Baldwin’s words—“Know from whence you came”—students examine questions of identity, justice, and belonging through panels, performances, and workshops. The day often brings together guest speakers, artists, and scholars, creating opportunities for students to connect historical perspectives with contemporary conversations.

Students spend the day participating in discussions and hands-on activities that encourage them to reflect on their own experiences while engaging with those of others. From exploring creative expression to leading peer workshops, they are invited to think critically, listen actively, and contribute to a shared dialogue.

James Baldwin Day highlights the power of both the written and spoken word, encouraging students to approach complex issues with thoughtfulness and confidence. It reflects the Lycée’s commitment to fostering engaged, informed individuals who are prepared to contribute meaningfully to their communities.

Spirit Day is a long-standing Lycée tradition where students come together for a day of teamwork and school spirit through a series of puzzles and games.

Stepping outside our campus, students from Grades 6 to 12 are placed in mixed-age teams to take part in outdoor orienteering activities and group challenges. Throughout the day, students solve puzzles, navigate courses, and complete physical tasks, guided by faculty “game masters.”

Working with peers across grade levels, Spirit Day pushes students to learn to collaborate, communicate, and support one another in new ways. More than a competition, Spirit Day is an opportunity to build connections beyond usual social circles. It strengthens a shared sense of solidarité-community and creates lasting memories, reinforcing the values of belonging that are central to the Lycée experience.