Embracing the Lasallian Spirit Abroad

One of the defining mantras of all Lasallian schools is “Enter to Learn, Leave to Serve.” Whether you visit a Lasallian campus in the Philippines, Spain, Malaysia, or right here in New York City, this phrase is prominently displayed, serving as a daily reminder that a Lasallian education goes beyond the classroom.

At the core of this mission is a commitment to community service. Each of our students is required to complete 80 hours of service over their four years of high school. While our campus ministry office connects students with local volunteer opportunities, some choose to go further, serving communities abroad.

Two students, Jaheim Bennett ’27 and Minjun Kang ’26, exemplified these Lasallian values on a global scale over the past year.

Bennett, alongside members of the Youth Leadership Program at his church, St. Thomas Aquinas in Brooklyn, embarked on a journey to Morocco, Ghana, and Senegal. During their time there, they renovated schools, visited orphanages, and volunteered in soup kitchens. One of Bennett’s most cherished moments was gifting toys to children in the orphanage, an experience that filled him with joy. He also enjoyed attending church services, calling them “upbeat and lively.” Reflecting on the trip, he felt proud of the positive impact they made in these communities. Now, Bennett eagerly anticipates the church’s next missionary trip, scheduled for summer 2025 in Belize.

Kang, who was born and raised in South Korea, returned home to Pyeongtaek to volunteer as an English teacher for elementary and middle school students. Spending a month helping children improve their English skills, Kang felt a deep sense of accomplishment as he watched his students gain confidence and make progress. Many were eager to learn more about American culture, and Kang gladly shared his experiences, acting as a cultural bridge between the two countries. Reflecting on his time there, Kang remarked that the experience opened his eyes to the possibility of pursuing a career in education or working with children.