Our Big Brother group kicked off an exciting new chapter today with their first off-campus adventure—a trip we hope will become a cherished tradition at Shrub Oak! This inaugural outing brought together our Diploma students, along with Founders, CDOS, and Skills & Achievement students, for a fun-filled day at Round 1 Arcade in Danbury, CT. It was a day of connection, laughter, and shared experiences that underscored the importance of mentorship, inclusion, and camaraderie among our students.
The Big Brother Trip is about more than just a day of fun—it is a meaningful opportunity for students of all abilities to come together, support one another, and build lasting friendships. Our older students stepped into leadership roles, guiding and encouraging their younger peers as they explored the arcade. Whether it was teaming up for a competitive round of air hockey, cheering each other on in a game of skee-ball, or navigating the exciting world of virtual reality simulators, every moment was a chance to strengthen bonds and foster a sense of belonging.
At Shrub Oak International School, we believe in the power of community. The Big Brother program is designed to create organic, student-driven connections, allowing students to learn from one another in both structured and unstructured settings. These trips extend that mission beyond the walls of our campus, offering students real-world experiences where they can practice social skills, independence, and teamwork in an engaging and supportive environment. The trip to Round 1 Arcase was a perfect example of that philosophy in action—our students cheered each other on, shared high-fives after a well-earned victory, and demonstrated patience and encouragement when learning new games.
One of the most rewarding aspects of the trip was witnessing the joy and confidence that grew throughout the day. Students who were initially hesitant to try certain games found themselves stepping out of their comfort zones with the support of their peers. Others who may have struggled with social interaction felt at ease knowing they were surrounded by friends who accepted and encouraged them. These moments, though seemingly small, are the building blocks of personal growth, reinforcing our belief that every student has something valuable to offer and something to gain from these experiences.
This program is just beginning, but today proved that it has the potential to make a lasting impact on our students, fostering friendships, leadership skills, and a deep sense of community.
Together, we can achieve great things, grow in meaningful ways, and make memories to last a lifetime.
