Middle School Roots & Shoots Club Members Attend Dr. Jane Goodall's Funeral

From Middle School Assistant Principal Kristin Gilliland: On November 12, five members of the Middle School Roots & Shoots club had an incredible opportunity to attend Jane Goodall’s Celebration of and in Thanksgiving for the Life of Jane Goodall at the National Cathedral. Goodall founded the Roots & Shoots program, which is the youth-led humanitarian and environmental initiative of the Jane Goodall Institute, empowering young people across the world to create compassionate change for people, animals, and the environment. Our students were honored to represent our school community and were deeply moved by the tributes shared during the service.

Speakers included Francis S. Collins, former director of the NIH; actor and environmentalist Leonardo DiCaprio; McClellan “Mac” Hall, founder of the National Indian Youth Leadership Project; and several of Goodall’s grandchildren. Students were particularly inspired by DiCaprio’s reflection that Goodall “led with hope, always,” reminding us that change begins with compassion and that each of us has the power to make an impact. Another speaker recalled a moment where Goodall insisted on eye contact when taking photos because, for her, connection mattered more than the image itself. One of our students, Robbie Patrick, shared, “That moment showed how present she was with people and with the world around her. It really made me think about how important it is to slow down and be connected.”

I really appreciated the words from Goodall’s grandson, Merlin Van Lawick: “Together we can, together we will, and together we must change this world, for generations to come. We promise to carry forth your light.” This message aligns with the work Roots & Shoots has done in our Middle School community, and how it challenges not only club members but all students to lead with empathy, take action, and commit to building a better future. We are incredibly proud of our students for representing our school so thoughtfully, and we look forward to the impact they, and all of our students, will continue to make.