Graded Four Pillars Series - Service: Comida Sem Mesa

Graded's Four Pillars—academics, arts, athletics, and service—serve as an educational framework and play a critical role in student character and skill development. In this issue of the Graded Gazette, we delve into service.

Graded’s Service Learning Program exposes students to real-world issues and encourages them to find meaningful solutions alongside their community. Hands-on experiences foster critical thinking, communication, and leadership skills that empower students to positively impact the world.  

Upon entering middle school, students may enroll in the Service Learning elective. In this course, they make connections beyond the classroom and ideate and execute projects both within the school community and with partner organizations.

In high school, students enrolled in the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma curriculum participate in the Creativity, Activity, and Service (CAS) Program, channeling their inner changemakers by organizing initiatives that impact the local community and society as a whole.

Outside of the classroom, students may participate in a myriad of service learning clubs and projects, from supporting a shelter for cancer patients at Casa Maria Helena to planning activities and outings for children in need at Recre(ação).

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When junior Isabela T. made the transition from middle to high school, she was struck by the wealth of opportunities available at Graded. Many of the school's student service learning clubs were longstanding legacies, but Isabela was determined to create her own path to make a difference.

In ninth grade, Isabela participated in Design for Change, a program in which students used design thinking to imagine meaningful ways to engage with their local community.

“We had the opportunity to leave Graded and visit Paraisópolis and NGOs,” she said. “That inspired me to solve one of the most pressing issues that I saw—hunger.”

That’s when Comida Sem Mesa was born. 

Comida Sem Mesa is one of approximately 20 service learning clubs led by Graded students. Members meet every Tuesday in the Dona Emília Cafeteria to package leftover food from the lunch service.

Wearing hairnets and latex gloves, they carefully assemble each boxed meal, ensuring a balanced mix of protein, grains, and vegetables. Once the food is packed, sealed, and ready to go, the meal packs are delivered to the non-profit organization Casa de Oração do Povo da Rua.

Comida Sem Mesa members aspire to motivate those around them to find ways they can effect change in their communities, at Graded, and beyond.

“The main thing that I have learned from Comida Sem Mesa is that even the simplest act with the simplest resources can bring joy to many people,” said the club’s co-leader, tenth-grader Cris C., who took Graded’s Service Learning elective in middle school and continues striving to make change. “We put a lot of effort into it, and it’s pleasing to see this club in action.”

Looking ahead, club members have set their sights on ramping up their efforts. They hope to pack meals several times a week, shorten delivery distances, and ultimately provide more food for those who need it most. These students are on a mission to fight hunger, and they’re not slowing down.

“At Graded, we teach students the value of giving back to their communities,” said Middle School Brazilian Social Studies Teacher Sandra Greenwald, who teaches the Service Learning course. “Service learning not only enriches students' educational experiences but also instills a sense of social responsibility, preparing them to be active and compassionate global citizens.”