At The British International School of Chicago, Lincoln Park, we know that in order for a school to be truly successful, we must continually make sure that we are involving ourselves in our local community. This takes place in the classroom on a regular basis - children in Year 4 are currently writing letters to elected officials to raise awareness of food deserts, whilst Year 5 have been busy getting ready to host a food drive in association with the Lakeview Pantry – but it is also important for our students to understand the importance of helping others outside of school, which is why we will be taking part in the 2018 Step-Up for the Kids challenge again this year.
This annual event involves climbing all 80 flights of stairs to the top of the AON building in the heart of downtown Chicago. Although it is a physically demanding challenge, the money that participants raise through entrance fees and sponsorship goes to the Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago. Fundraising proceeds will be directed to K.I.D.S.S. for Kids, an affiliated organization of Lurie Children's, and its $4 million commitment to the hospital's Family Services Department.
BISCLP’s participation is important for two major reasons: firstly, it helps to raise a significant amount of money (over $13,000 last year alone) for a great cause; but the other benefit is that it reinforces our values education, helping students to understand the importance of being proactive members of our community.
-Matt Gregory, Year 4 teacher and Blackhawk House Captain