Giving Back Together: An Upper School Tradition of Service and Gratitude
Each year, as the holiday season approaches, our Upper School students take part in one of The Sage School’s most meaningful traditions—a service-focused trip to Target to purchase gifts for the Foxboro Discretionary Fund. This experience, rooted in generosity and community connection, offers students a thoughtful reminder of the impact they can have when they extend care beyond themselves.
What makes this tradition especially meaningful is its close connection to the Sage community. Our Registrar, Lisa Downs, is not only a Foxboro local but also the dedicated leader of the Foxboro Discretionary Fund, an organization she lovingly took over from her mother. Her commitment to serving families in need, particularly during the holiday season, inspires our students and staff alike. By guiding and supporting this tradition, Lisa helps students understand that small acts of kindness—especially when done collectively—can bring tremendous comfort to others.
During the trip, students thoughtfully select gifts that will bring joy and relief to local families facing hardship. They work together, balancing practicality with compassion, and consider the needs of children who might otherwise go without. This hands-on experience gives students an opportunity to actively contribute to the well-being of the community that Sage is proud to be part of.
Beyond the bags and boxes, this annual tradition reflects something much deeper. It helps students practice gratitude, recognize the many privileges they enjoy, and understand their responsibility to contribute positively to the world around them. It is a moment each year when our mission—supporting not only academic growth but also empathy, awareness, and civic engagement—truly comes to life.
As gifts make their way to the Discretionary Fund, the season feels a little brighter—not just for the families receiving support, but for the students who learn firsthand what it means to serve with heart.