What started modestly three years ago with a weekly Empathy course led by a single teacher has steadily expanded into 70 youth engaged in intergenerational exchanges within an Empathy club, 53 teachers trained in positive pedagogy, and school leadership committed to embedding Empathy into the school’s culture. A memorable milestone was the dedication of two teachers who voluntarily designed and led a workshop to familiarise colleagues with the meaning and value of Empathy, in order to improve interactions and well-being at school.

Central questions continue to guide this journey: How can a school be a center of light that releases the potential of each member, and shines on the progress of his society? How can we harness young people’s energy, sense of justice, and thirst for knowledge? What kind of education builds capacities and values that foster positive change despite surrounding negative forces? How can communication evolve toward active listening and kind language to strengthen relationships among teachers and students?

These questions are explored not only within the teaching staff but also with students, who are encouraged to become ambassadors of Empathy through smaller and concrete projects in their school. Their interest is very obvious: the Empathy course was the most requested by students in September, at the start of the year.

What did we learn?

To look at youth through the lens of strength, capacity, and trust; to think in terms of “we” rather than “us and them”; to trust a learning process that demands perseverance and humility; and to foster broad participation by enabling all members of the school community to contribute to the creation, planning, and implementation of actions that support this goal.

It is a remarkable opportunity to continue learning alongside the Lycée Technique of Lallange, and we look forward to bringing our tools, experience, and energy to contribute to this noble goal !