During the summer, 24 Upper School students participated in the Community Engagement Fellowship Program, partnering with community organizations to develop and implement innovative projects that address each organization’s needs. Exemplifying the RCDS motto, Not for Self, but for Service, the fellows are working alongside community partners to create meaningful opportunities for learning, connection, and impact.

The students prepared for their summer projects through a series of seminars focused on public purpose project design, changemaking, and ethical engagement. Throughout the program, Ms. Drago, Ms. Morano, and Ms. Bell provided guidance and support as students explored different approaches to community engagement and developed projects rooted in collaboration and reflection.

2026 projects have included partnering with organizations throughout Westchester and the surrounding region on initiatives spanning education, accessibility, the arts, health and wellness, civic engagement, and community connection.  

Fellows expanded food drive efforts to support Feeding Westchester; designed an accessible sensory garden with Abilis; led STEAM, science, and music enrichment programs for younger students; created mentorship and empowerment opportunities for young girls; supported civic engagement and literacy education; and developed creative programming through art, movement, and storytelling.

“The students have been really excellent in the seminars this year, exploring the different approaches to change-making and what resonates best with them,” said Ms. Drago. “The projects have been so great to see in action, as we finally get to see their ideas come to life. They have done a great job adjusting to the needs of the moment, building relationships with their community partners, and approaching their journal reflections thoughtfully.”

The fellows will share their purpose-driven projects with the RCDS community at the Community Engagement Symposium on October 6. 

Thank you to our community partners and RCDS faculty mentors who made these meaningful experiences possible for our students!

RCDS Community Engagement Fellows complete their summer service projects with funding provided by the Rye Country Day community, allowing community organizations to benefit from students’ enthusiasm and passion at no cost and enabling Upper School students from all socioeconomic backgrounds with a commitment to public purpose to participate.

View the 2026 projects here.