An independent day school serving grades K-12 | St. Paul, MN

Affinity and Special Interest Groups

What is an affinity group?

An affinity group is a group of people who share a common aspect of their identity. They may be focused on different parts of identity, such as race, gender, religion, sexual orientation, etc.

Why are affinity groups important?

Affinity groups support the affirmation of identity, empowerment of the individual and empowerment of the group within the larger community. Here is an article titled Making Space: Affinity groups offer a platform for voices often relegated to the margins that illustrate the value and importance of affinity and special interest groups.

Who may participate in affinity groups?

Any student who identifies as a member of an affinity group (i.e. student of color, multiracial, and/or indigenous, Jewish, Muslim, Black/Brown males, females) are invited to join one of the affinity groups.

Who may participate in Student Interest Groups (SIG)? 

GSA: All Middle School students who are interested in supporting and being an ally to Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer/Questioning, Intersex (LGBTQI) issues are welcome!
Intercultural Club: All Middle School students who are interested in interracial dialogue and intercultural issues are welcome!
 

What if my child does not join an affinity or special interest group?

It is encouraged for students to visit at least one group that they may identify with or may be interested in learning more. However, students self-select an affinity or special interest group and therefore are not required to attend.

What if my child identifies or is interested in more than one group?

Students would be able to attend more than one group. Students can visit and rotate various groups to find the best match for them.
 

Lower School

Middle School

Upper School

Parents

Faculty/Staff

Alumni/ae

  • Chris Jenkins has helped to create an alumni/ae of color network group

Lower School

Common Ground Jr.

Middle School

Common Ground 
Mischpacha
Muslim
Black Males
Intercultural Club (IC)
Gender Sexuality Alliance (GSA)
HerSpace
Neurodiversity

Upper School

Common Ground
Mischpacha
Black Males
Intercultural Club (IC)
Asian Student Alliance 
Latinos Unidos
Black & Brown Girls (BBG)
HerSpace
Gender Sexuality Alliance (GSA)
Rainbow Connection