Co-curriculum
Co-curriculum
We believe that students should have a wide range of experiences outside the classroom. We seek to place students in situations where they learn from taking risks, having real responsibility, and performing service. We think that these experiences can be powerful tools for developing values, building confidence, and defining interests.
Every student must participate in AMP each term. Credit for AMP may be earned through special AMP offerings as well as through Wilderness, International Study, Drama Productions, and Athletics.
AMP Program
AMP is an experienced-based program required of every student every term. In the fall and winter, the programs are scheduled through the week with most taking place on Thursday afternoon. In the spring an entire week is set aside. Students sign up for AMP offerings just before the start of each term. Offerings include special programs, (political campaigns, internships, art shows, etc.) drama productions, wilderness programs, team sports and trips abroad. AMPs are designed to emphasize some or all the elements of the following acronym: D.R. C.R.O.S.S. (Discovery; Real tasks with real responsibilities; Camaraderie; Risk; Outside - when and wherever possible; Skills; Service)
Community Service
Service to others is a key value of the Bush School community. By helping others, students gain insight into worlds they otherwise might not know and learn about themselves in the process. We have therefore established a set of service obligations, including participation in the lunchroom and in periodic community service days. Many students also perform service during their senior projects. All students must participate in two community service AMPs before they graduate.
Network Program
The Network of Complementary Schools is a group of diverse schools, both public and private, which have joined together to share their special programs. Bush students may apply to attend one of 26 member schools for a three to four week stay, taking part in special programs or attending regular classes. Housing is provided and the only major cost is for transportation. Bush families are encouraged to host Network students visiting Seattle.
Publications
Flight, the school literary magazine, and Rambler, the school newspaper, offer opportunities for self-expression - in articles, photographs, and poetry. All publications in the school have a written editorial policy that articulates expectations and procedures for determining what will be published. We seek to create an environment where a productive dialogue occurs about the balance between freedom of expression and concern for the values and sensitivities of the community.
Senate
The Bush Upper School student-faculty Senate convenes each week to deliberate specific campus issues and wider concerns present in the school. In the past year, topics considered by the Senate have included respect for others on campus, the need for more public art in Wissner Hall, faculty evaluation, and a school-wide food drive. Two at-large representatives selected by the student body join six student representatives elected by each grade level. Senate visitors take an active role in debates, and all are welcome.
Drama Productions
The Upper School mounts two major productions per year. The bulk of rehearsal time takes place after school. Students are involved in all aspects of the production: acting, stage management, lights, sound, scenery, costumes, and props. Students can receive AMP credit for participation in productions.
Wilderness Program
The Wilderness Program seeks to develop in students an appreciation for the wilderness environment and to develop skills for outdoor recreation and endeavor. Weekend trips feature hiking, rock climbing, and cross country skiing. Week-long trips are offered in conjunction with the AMP program each trimester: in the autumn, sea kayaking in the San Juan Islands, and mountaineering in the Cascade and Olympic Mountains; in the winter, cross country skiing and camping in Yellowstone National Park; and in the spring, rafting on the John Day River, hiking along the Olympic National Seashore, and sea kayaking in the south Puget Sound.