DESIRE TO INSPIRE

Desire to Inspire is an innovative program in the Hopkinton Middle School that challenges students to bravely address increasingly complex content in multiple subject areas, with the goal of broadening boundaries and creating global connections.

It has been enhanced by the efforts of the 26.2 Foundation, which has facilitated connections between the Hopkinton Public Schools; the Alpha Omega Council of Boston (www.alphaomegacouncil.org); the Consul General of Greece in Boston; professor Loren J. Samons II, from Boston University’s Department of Classical Studies; and The Examined Life, an organization whose mission is to strengthen Greek studies in local schools.

The interactive, interdisciplinary theme instructs students throughout grades 6-8 about life in ancient Greece, the battle of Marathon, the origin of the Olympics, how the first marathon came to be, and the marathon’s historical significance. Through  unique, dedicated events and lessons, students make curriculum connections with different aspects of Greece and the marathon.

The curriculum includes class lessons, enrichments, guest speakers, fundraisers, sports and competitions – all tied to the spirit of the marathon. Desire to Inspire encourages students to develop critical skills through increased global awareness about human rights, the environment, economics, health, education and culture, through collaboration, communication, creativity, innovation, volunteerism and philanthropy.

Speakers who’ve addressed the students include Boston Marathon winner Meb Keflezighi, Massachusetts legislator Joseph Kennedy, Dick and Rick Hoyt of Team Hoyt, and educator and marathoner John Young. Programs range from the annual 2.62-mile student mini-marathon to the student essay contest coordinated with the Alpha Omega Council.