This past October, Princeton Day School students participated in the We’re Better Together Conference at the Pingry School, a full-day conference that brought together schools from all across New Jersey. Its objective was to address diversity, foster collaboration, and help students become more comfortable discussing identity. This year’s conference brought over one hundred students and educators who participated in activities designed to strengthen their understanding of multiculturalism.
Mr. Anthony McKinley, one of the faculty chaperones, expressed that the closing circle was his favorite and most meaningful part of the day, saying, “The weather was perfect, and it was powerful to see students and adults naming a part of their identity and having it celebrated with others who identify the same way. It was the perfect way to end the day.” While the conference was only a day long, Mr. McKinley noted several instances of student growth. He appreciated watching more reserved students step out of their comfort zones and engage with people they would not have approached before. Additionally, Mr. McKinley noted how impressive the student turnout from PDS was, particularly from the ninth-graders. He also observed multiple moments that stood out to him, saying, “Witnessing individual moments of leadership from our students will always register as significant for me.”
While reflecting on the foundations of the event, Mr. McKinley emphasized that collaboration and teamwork remain an integral part of the conference. The event was born during the pandemic through the effort of three schools, and much of the conference is built on a commitment to fostering a safe community for all people, no matter their age, gender, race, or beliefs. From all of this, Mr. McKinley hopes for all people to recognize the importance of diversity and continue to appreciate and uplift all members of their communities.
PDS student attendee, junior Sophie Yao, reflected positively on her experience at the conference, noting that she “was able to learn from other students who had both similar or different values than mine.” One particular activity that stood out to her was “an exercise to reflect on our personal values and narrow down to our core beliefs, similar to what we did in advisory, and through that activity I was able to learn from other students.” Looking ahead, Yao hopes to maintain an open and collaborative mindset and described the conference as an opportunity to connect with others. Ultimately, the We’re Better Together Conference at Pingry continues to provide a meaningful place for collaboration and growth.
