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October 2, 2024

By Emma Johnson, Assistant Director of Communications

Recently featured on ABC 7 News, a group of Fieldston Upper students are demonstrating the power of ethical values through real-world action. Led by seniors Ishaan A. ’25 and Dhruv K. ’25, alongside Noor H. ’25, Alistair K. ’25, and Natalia P. ’25, they founded The Sher Organization — a nonprofit to combat educational inequality in rural India. Rooted in the values of service and social justice taught at the Ethical Culture Fieldston School, these students have launched an ambitious campaign to raise $400,000 to build a high school for seven villages in the Satara region of India.

The Sher Organization founders and Fieldston Upper students present about their idea.
Photo of The Sher Organization’s leadership team courtesy of ABC 7 News

This project reflects the educational philosophy that ECFS upholds, where students are inspired to understand global challenges and actively seek solutions. For Ishaan, Dhruv, and their team, the issue of educational inequality in rural India became more than a distant problem—it was a call to action. Through The Sher Organization, they are determined to break the cycle of poverty by building a high school, giving students in underserved villages a chance at higher education and brighter futures.

Partnering with the Akhil Maharashtra Education Society (AMES), Sher underscores the importance of community-driven change. By working together, they aim to create lasting opportunities that will empower generations of students, providing a pathway to college and careers that once seemed unattainable. This initiative is not just about building a school; it’s about fostering hope, opportunity, and long-term transformation.

This effort is a shining example of service learning — ECFS students apply their classroom values to real-world challenges, embodying ethical leadership and compassion. They are setting a powerful precedent: that with hard work, collaboration, and a strong moral compass, high schoolers can change the world!

To support their cause and learn more about the initiative, visit The Sher Organization’s website.