Small Acts Making A BIG Difference By Courtney Brinkerhoff-Rau
Middle School is filled with new and challenging experiences,
especially for 6th graders. The end of the school year brings what has become a right of passage for the class: the annual Think, Care, Act Project. Known as “TCAP,” the assignment challenges students to think about their talents, select a project they care about, and act to make the world a better place. Under the expert guidance of history teachers Susan Cannon, Hon., Roberta Howlin, Hon., and Larry Henderson, students spend several weeks researching their topics and developing action plans. The project culminates with the annual TCAP Fair each May when other students, parents, and teachers stop by to learn more about 6th grade students’ concerns and passions. Ava Hendrickson ’22 was concerned about trash accumulating in the world’s oceans. Her action plan was to promote the use of bamboo spoons, instead of plastic. She also asked people to sign a pledge stating they would use less plastic in an effort to reduce waste in the ocean. “A major problem in the world is that lots of plastic and trash go into the ocean. The waste hurts the animals and sea life,” explained Ava. “I am so glad that I chose a project that meant something to me. This project really helped me understand the importance of working for the good of all. I learned that a small act can lead to a big difference!” Myles Davis ’22 and Andrew Hug ’22 tackled the ongoing problem of feeding the hungry in Philadelphia. The 6th grade duo connected with Greener Partners to learn how the organization provides fresh food to the homeless. “One of the bumps in the road we faced was [deciding] whether we should raise money to donate or go to the place and help,” said Andrew. “We finally decided to go [to Greener Partners] and that ended up being a great choice.” Director of Libraries Linda Smith, Hon. inspired Ethan Harris ’22. Ethan knew that Mrs. Smith was receiving chemotherapy at a local hospital, so he decided to sweeten the long days with homemade cookies. Ethan, along with students in the Middle School Community Service Club, decorated bags, wrote prayers and personal notes. They filled the bags with their notes, Ethan’s cookies, and hand lotion, and delivered them to Mrs. Smith and other patients during their chemotherapy treatments. Jake Shaud ’22 turned his TCAP project into a family affair. After volunteering with Conshohocken-based Cradles to Crayons, the Shaud family has decided to begin a new family tradition. Jake’s mom, Carolyn Shaud ’89, has fond memories of working with Len Haley, Hon. and the Community Service Program from her days at EA. “We have decided to volunteer at Cradles to Crayons for each of the Shaud children family birthdays every year,” explained Carolyn. “Participating in community service is one of my favorite EA memories. I am so pleased to see that it will be one of Jake’s too.” EA
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