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On Wednesday, October 11, Freshman students at the Senior School participated in the Class of 2027’s "Fresh Take on Pittsburgh." The purpose of this day is to allow students to thoughtfully engage in small groups with faculty members and each other outside of regular advisory cohorts in locales beyond our beautiful campus. During this time together, students have the chance to get some exercise, interact with the greater Pittsburgh community, and meet some new classmates. There were three outdoor options for students to pick from, each featuring their own merits and opportunities.

These options are listed below:

Tree Pittsburgh - Students will head across the Allegheny River to work with this organization to help protect newly planted saplings from invasive species and learn from professionals about the importance of tree health in the Pittsburgh area. Tree Pittsburgh is an environmental non-profit organization dedicated to strengthening and building community vitality by restoring and protecting the urban forest through tree planting and care, education, advocacy, and land conservation.

Allegheny River Trail Park - Students will work alongside park and facilities coordinators to help with an ongoing expansion project in Aspinwall. Tree limb and invasive species removal in the rain garden and riverwalk are a top priority for the park this time of year. The mission of Allegheny River Trail Park is to enhance the quality of life for the community by providing free public access to parkland and multi-use trails along the Allegheny River. The park is committed to riverfront revitalization and inclusive community engagement through recreational, educational, cultural, and social activities for a diverse population.

Hardie Valley Park - Students will help Fox Chapel Parks Commission members with a seasonal planting effort for various types of seedlings just a short 1.5-mile walk away from our Senior School campus. Protective stakes and tubes will be used to keep the newly planted trees safe and healthy. The group might even have the opportunity to meet the mayor of Fox Chapel! Hardie Valley Park is a unique property with a high-quality stream running through it, a pond, a waterfall, and a meadow.