Creativity, Activity, and Service, or “CAS”, is part of the core of the philosophy of the International Baccalaureate Program. Starting just as as Diploma Program (11th-12th grade) concept, the CAS program now weaves through the entire adolescent program. The goal of CAS is to contribute to the personal and interpersonal development of the students. In the 7-10th grades, students can choose from a variety of different activities that allow them to stretch their creative muscles (creativity), their anatomical muscles (activity), or work in service to the school community (service). Highlights so far include ultimate frisbee, needle felting, chicken coop construction, and preparing for Harvest Fest.

For 11th and 12th Grade students, CAS is generally a self-directed and off-campus activity. With support from IB Coordinator Lindsey Weaver and CAS Coordinator Mari Ruddy, students take on learning experiences in the community at organizations such as the Best Buy Teen Tech Center, the Hamline-Midway Library, the Bee Lab @ the U, and the Midway YMCA. Some students engage in their CAS work at Great River assisting the Pottery Studio, the Performance Space, and working to plan Wellness Activities at GRS.

Photos:
CAS 4: Junior engaging in service opportunity (Photo Credit: Lisa Steinman)
IMG_1837: Clay Magnet Making creative opportunity (Photo Credit: Laura Machacek)
CAS Ultimate: Ultimate Frisbee activity (Photo Credit: Scott Alslaben)
IMG_5788: Chicken Coop construction crew service opportunity (Photo Credit: Nick Beermann)