Global Engagement Program

Thayer Academy’s Global Engagement Program includes the required 9th and 10th grade Common Good I and Common Good II courses and the Global Scholars Capstone Program. All of the courses foster a greater awareness of and engagement in important local and global issues and offer students the opportunity to develop action-oriented projects that make a positive impact in the greater Boston and broader world communities.

The Common Good I

This one-semester course helps students develop a strong vision of the common good, including ideals such as equality, opportunity, environmental sustainability, and social justice. It also introduces students to challenges we face as a school, a community, a region, a nation, and a world in achieving those ideals. During the course, we identify and examine problems, acknowledge those who promote solutions, and engage in problem-solving activities in our school and our communities. Students consider the many ways Thayer contributes to the common good and develop ways Thayer can do more and do better. The course concludes with a service-learning project with a focus on ethical leadership and community engagement. This course is required for ninth graders. Semester-long, 1/2 credit

The Common Good II

In today’s polarized world, the ability to engage in meaningful and respectful dialogue is essential. This one-semester course challenges students to explore complex public issues while developing the skills necessary for civil discourse. With a focus on identity, ideology, and societal challenges, students will learn to navigate contentious conversations with empathy, confidence, and respect. Through structured discussions, case studies, and debate, students will practice active listening, critical thinking, and relationship-building across lines of difference. They will explore diverse perspectives, analyze pressing social issues, and develop strategies for maintaining dialogue in challenging moments. This course reinforces our school’s commitment to relational learning, helping students engage thoughtfully with difficult topics while fostering understanding and connection. By the end of the course, students will be equipped to participate in productive discourse on the issues that matter to them and the world, preparing them to lead with insight, integrity, and respect. This course is required for sophomores. Semester-long, 1/2 credit

Global Scholars: This program promotes greater awareness of and engagement in global issues by combining interdisciplinary academic learning with applications to real-world experiences. Students will combine the following curricular and co-curricular elements in order to be recognized as Global Scholars.

CURRICULAR REQUIREMENTS
Global Scholars Capstone I (senior year, semester 1)
Global Scholars Capstone II (senior year, semester 2)
These courses encourage students to consider the meaning of “global citizenship” as we explore the role of national, multinational, and non-governmental organizations and assess their efforts in the areas of global health, education, human rights, and economic development. Together we examine the United Nations Declaration of Human Rights and evaluate the status of those rights in the world today; we connect with Thayer graduates and discuss their experiences as “global citizens;” we consider the limitations and the promise of NGOs as they set goals and try to improve our world; and with the support of the course teacher or another faculty mentor, students develop an independent project to be completed in the second semester and presented to the community in the spring. Application required. Full-year, 1 credit.

Additional Coursework a minimum of 3.5 credits of Global Scholars Capstone designated courses.
These courses include English: Scene to Screen; History: Class Matters; Science: AP Environmental Science; World Languages: Hispanic History & Culture I and II, all advanced language levels IV, V, VI, AP, and Post-AP

Co-Curricular Requirements: Active participation in a globally/culturally-based and/or a community service club or activity. Attendance at school-sponsored globally-focused events.

Co-Curricular Strong Recommendation: An international immersion and/or service experience. Students receiving financial aid may apply for financial support for school-sponsored trips.

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Global Engagement Program

Courses

The Common Good I

The Common Good II