Through a robust selection of student-led clubs and meaningful community service experiences, students explore their interests, develop leadership skills, and learn the value of working toward something greater than themselves. These programs reflect the School’s belief in a balanced, whole-child education that fosters initiative, empathy, and a sense of purpose.
Student Clubs
Clubs at Rumsey Hall are student-driven initiatives that give learners the opportunity to lead, organize, and explore shared interests. Meeting weekly during the school day, clubs are open to all Upper School students and often bring together members from across multiple grades, creating valuable connections and collaboration.
Each club is led by students and supported by a faculty advisor, but the direction, energy, and ideas come directly from those who participate. The offerings shift each year depending on student interest, and new clubs are regularly launched based on emerging passions and ideas. Students are supported not only in joining clubs, but in founding them.
Recent clubs include:
- American Sign Language – Students learn and practice American Sign Language.
- Art – A space for students to create, explore, and develop their artistic skills across media.
- Badminton/Table Tennis – Students play and improve their skills in badminton and table tennis while building teamwork.
- Buddy Club – Promoting inclusion and connection among younger and older students
- Challenged Athlete Foundation Club – Supports athletes with physical challenges through advocacy, fundraising, and awareness.
- Chess – Students develop strategy and critical thinking by playing chess and competing in friendly matches.
- Creative Writing – A club for students to express themselves and improve their writing through stories, poetry, and essays.
- Classical Culture Club – Explores ancient civilizations, literature, mythology, and history.
- Dance – Students learn and perform various dance styles, focusing on expression and creativity.
- Debate – Develops public speaking, critical thinking, and persuasive skills through structured debates.
- Finance Club – Students explore financial literacy, investing, and real-world money management concepts.
- Fishing & More – Encourages outdoor adventure, fishing, and environmental appreciation.
- Frisbee Golf – Students enjoy frisbee golf while learning strategy and outdoor sportsmanship.
- Green Club – Focuses on sustainability, environmental awareness, and eco-friendly initiatives.
- Ink and Imagination – A student magazine club showcasing written pieces and visual art from students and faculty.
- Math 4 Fun – Encourages problem-solving and mathematical thinking through games, puzzles, and challenges.
- Model UN – Students simulate the United Nations, learning diplomacy, research, and global issues.
- Robotics – Students design, build, and program robots while learning engineering and teamwork skills.
- Social Media Ambassadors – Helps students share school stories and events through creative digital content.
- Student Government – Provides leadership opportunities as students plan initiatives and represent their peers.
- Yearbook – Students capture and design a visual record of the school year through photography and layout.
- Yoga and Meditation – Promotes wellness and mindfulness through yoga practice and meditation techniques.
Community Service
Community service is a valued and visible part of student life at Rumsey Hall. True to the School’s mission of cultivating responsible and compassionate citizens, Rumsey provides students with consistent, hands-on opportunities to engage with and contribute to the broader community.
Service opportunities are offered throughout the year and are open to all students, both day and boarding. Projects may be integrated into weekend activities, academic or athletic team initiatives, or campus-wide events. Whether volunteering locally or supporting national causes, students are encouraged to participate in ways that are meaningful to them. There are no required service hours—yet each year, more than 75% of Rumsey students choose to get involved, logging over 1,000 hours of service collectively.
Recent annual initiatives include:
- Seasonal drives and food collections for local families
- Environmental efforts such as local beach and garden cleanups
- Collaborations with regional nonprofits and service organizations
- Walk a Mile in Her Shoes, raising awareness around domestic violence
- Through these experiences, students develop a deeper awareness of the world around them and the role they can play in improving it—building empathy, confidence, and leadership along the way.
Signature Program: Social and Community Leadership (Grade 9)
As part of their culminating year at Rumsey, ninth-grade students take part in the Social and Community Leadership signature program. This experience offers a more structured, in-depth opportunity for civic engagement, guiding students through leadership training, ethical discussions, and meaningful service work. Designed to prepare them for life beyond Rumsey, the program helps students reflect on their role as leaders—on campus and in their communities.
