Hey, Fieldston! We’re Clara (she/her) and Ellis (he/him).
Ellis has attended Fieldston since Pre-K and Clara joined in 8th grade – as FSG presidents, we’ll combine a familiarity with Fieldston with exposure to other educational environments.
We’re already investing in the community: Ellis plays baseball and basketball, and Clara runs cross country, contributes to the Fieldston News, and serves on the ARC. These varying interests provide a wide breadth of connections that enable us to effectively implement our shared vision of Fieldston…
- Reviving the commons
Think foosball, chess, and puzzles. Walls covered with student artwork and the sweet sound of student music. Stomachs will cease to growl on Thursdays, thanks to a new vending machine. We’ll even partner with the gardening club to introduce some plants.
- More grade-wide connections
We’ll create opportunities that emphasize experiential learning (e.g. field trips and language immersion days) as well as social bonding (e.g. movie nights and a homecoming dance).
Additionally, reorganizing the system of 100+ clubs (?!) starts with an additional flex time, so everyone can attend all of their favorite activities.
- Academic support
Students already have access to platforms like the NYT, JSTOR, and the Criterion Channel, and we’ll add the marvels of Quizlet+ to that list.
We’ll also push to move finals to BEFORE winter break. Instead of relaxation tarnished by looming assessments, we can genuinely enjoy the vacation we’ve earned.
- Expanding independent study options
Along with the option to take classes through Manhattan College, we’ll increase flexibility in teacher advising requirements. Teachers are not paid for their role in independent studies and are subsequently reluctant to supervise them. Whether through compensation or reduced time commitment, we want to lessen the demand on teachers while broadening student opportunities.
- Building a strong student section
Birds of Prey game is undeniably a Fieldston favorite. We hope to see that energy year-round, so we’ll employ themed games, late buses, and general access to Fieldston merch to PACK THE NEST.
In addition to minor inconveniences, we’re prepared to tackle more profound issues, such as strengthening trust and communication among the student body and with the administration. Ultimately, our goal is to listen to YOU. This means installing a diversity of voices in our cabinet and working actively to address student suggestions that arise throughout the year. We aim to ground Fieldston in ethical, experiential, and progressive education — and fun.
Your favorite presidents,
Ellis & Clara
