POMFRET — For the first time this fall, The Rectory School offered Community Service as a sport. Art Teacher and Diversity Leader, Hannah Minifie coached 15 students for the entire trimester. Every week the students worked on different projects and on certain weekends went off campus to contribute to a local organization. The students were asked to step out of their comfort zone to help the school and the community around them. The kids ranged in grades, places they live, and the level of experience they had with community service. 

The students worked on projects both on campus and within the local community. The projects included stacking wood for faculty members at Rectory, cleaning up the grounds at the New England Historical Society, and helping Our Companions Animal Shelter prepare for the winter.

Throughout the trimester, the students had an ongoing bake sale for the entire Rectory community. The students made trail mix and cookies, which they offered for sale to the rest of the school during morning break. The team raised more than $1,600 and donated the proceeds to organizations like Horizon Wings, Putnam Pajama Drive, and The Pink Fund. “This was an excellent experience for all of the students,” said coach Minifie. “They came in with an open mind and their understanding and dedication to help grew throughout the term. Most importantly, they learned how much impact they could have on people and they saw how rewarding helping your fellow person can be.”