After finishing cross-country practice at Crystal Springs, Sadie, Juju, and Lily headed to San Mateo’s Central Park for the Stronger Together Rally, hosted by the Citizens’ Climate Lobby SMC Youth Group. They came to support Hilldale alumna Tillie Clayton, who spoke about her passion for making a difference through climate action. The event brought together young people, families, and community members to raise awareness about climate change, share ideas, and encourage others to get involved. Tillie, a volunteer with the youth group, spent months helping organize the rally and invited the Hilldale community to join. While at the rally, the group also met California State Senator Josh Becker. They talked about climate change and shared a little about Hilldale. It was a meaningful opportunity for our students to connect with a state leader and have their voices heard on an issue they care about. Tillie sparked something in these three middle schoolers. On Monday morning, they brought that enthusiasm back to Hilldale, sharing their experience and what they learned about how young people can make a difference. Tillie’s confidence, passion, and dedication inspired them, and their excitement spread to the rest of the middle school. Tillie’s involvement reminds us that the connections made at Hilldale reach beyond the classroom and continue long after students leave. We are so proud of Tillie for using her voice and bringing her community together. We are also proud of Sadie, Juju, and Lily for supporting her and bringing what they learned back to school. Sometimes, making a difference begins with simply showing up for one another. We hope their experience encourages our students—and anyone reading—to explore causes they care about, find their voices, and discover ways to make a difference in their own communities.
