Things Get Spicy: Empowering Student Leaders through Affinity Groups
By Jordan Zickermann Breck School • Minneapolis, MN
Throughout history and certainly in today’ s world, student voices have shaped and continue to shape social movements and have pushed for meaningful change. But why do some students feel empowered to share their experiences and implement ideas in school while others struggle to find their voice? Affinity groups help bridge that gap. By being spaces dedicated to social belonging that equip students with the tools to advocate for themselves and their peers, students in affinity groups are empowered to be leaders within their school communities.
At Breck School, the 15 affinity group offerings across campus allow students to explore crucial issues of identity, equity, joy, and restoration. They are opt-in brave spaces for students of shared, marginalized identities to experience solidarity and support in a community where self-esteem is nourished. Affinity groups also provide an opportunity for students to build leadership skills critical to the daily health of our school community.
To ensure that students in affinity groups engage with these spaces thoughtfully and purposefully, we ask them each year to create an action plan that goes beyond just meetings and gatherings. This plan challenges students to reflect on the deeper purpose of their group, outlining meaningful goals, activities, and initiatives that center around building a strong sense of community, fostering identity development, and strengthening leadership skills. By doing so, students take ownership of their experience, transforming these groups into powerful spaces for growth, connection, and impact within the school.
Page 18 Summer 2025 CSEE Connections