Community Engagement Reimagined
Aligned with the GFS program and mission, community engagement celebrates the Light in everyone: in our neighbors, families, and students. Led by Dr. Zarah Adams and teachers in every division, our students are encouraged to learn about issues impacting our city and world. They learn to ask questions and research solutions, identify partners, and engage in a meaningful, ongoing manner.
While many activities are student-driven and led, teachers and adults serve as guides, ensuring that everyone fully understands the important role our neighbors play in our lives and our world. Student clubs, including Lunch for the Hungry, Gardening, and Education Justice support local drives and initiatives that combat food and clothing insecurity, partnering with other schools and organizations, and tapping into the collective power of our current family and alumni bodies.
With some of our signature programs, our teachers lead, sharing their expertise and love of teaching and learning with others outside of GFS.
Meet Zarah Adams: Director of Community Engagement
Dr. Zarah Adams has been a part of the GFS community for seven years and has long been a leader of community engagement efforts, making the classroom community, family, and the local neighborhood a central focus in her first grade Social Studies curricula.
Zarah is an advocate for students and families through her deep commitment to educational equity and her work with both public and independent schools throughout the Germantown community will advance important educational partnerships. Learn more about Zarah in our latest Q&A interview, where she discusses her passion for education and work at GFS.
Contact Zarah
Community Engagement News

GFS students, families, faculty, and staff organized a number of community drives and activities this fall.

This month marked our first Community Engagement Food Drive of the school year.

GFS recognizes the faculty and staff who are retiring at the end of this school year. Our sixth tribute features Kathy Paulmier, Director of Community Engagement.

GFS students, teachers, and families make and donate cloth masks to a local health center—providing a much-needed community service.

Creative voices filled the Friends Free Library when students and community members joined together for a Poetry Lunchtime Chat.