Affinity Groups

At Castilleja, we understand that leadership is exemplified, not bestowed. Through their affinity group work, students develop the capacity to value their own lived experiences and become curious about how others experience the world differently. By identifying key habits of mind that support the development of authentic leadership, students find themselves more likely to lean into challenging conversations, move beyond superficial judgments, and wonder deeply about the systems and structures that inform access to resources. There is much that goes unexamined in our daily lives; therefore, Castilleja's programs provoke as many questions as answers. We are confident that those who face these critical questions with courage also learn to lead with confidence and compassion.

Upper School Affinity Groups at Castilleja are spaces for students who share a common core cultural identifier to connect over shared experience, cultivate a sense of self and belonging, and engage in advocacy to co-create an inclusive and equitable school community. These spaces give students agency and leadership opportunities to educate themselves and others about their community and bring to life Castilleja’s Diversity & Inclusion statement. Affinity Groups are student created and student led.

Middle School Affinity Alliance Groups at Castilleja are spaces to bring all students together who share a genuine curiosity and commitment in building community around a core cultural identifier their classmates share. These groups invite allyship and dialogue. Alliance groups’ offer an open invitation to experience and honor the diverse cultures of the student body to co-create an inclusive & equitable school community.