Going to San Domenico, everyone has heard about the ROSE project. ROSE standing for Real Opportunities for Service in Education. At San Domenico, the ROSE Project is more than just a graduation requirement, it’s a chance for students to take action on issues that matter to them. Juniors begin exploring their project topics through the Social Justice curriculum, eventually honing in on causes they’re passionate about. By senior year, these projects often reflect deeply personal passions.
For senior Will Rothstein, his commitment began even before the ROSE Project was even on his radar.
“Over the past few years, I’ve been involved with an organization called ExtraFood, helping to recover surplus food and deliver it to those in need,” Rothstein said. “Seeing how much good food goes to waste while so many in our community struggle with food insecurity made me want to make a difference.”
His project focuses on raising awareness about food waste and supporting local food recovery efforts.
After hearing about the project, junior Teddy Fleitas became interested in helping out.
“I’ve helped out in food banks and soup kitchens my whole life, so this really felt like something I would have a good time doing.” Fleitas said.
Building on that passion, Fleitas began looking for ways to reduce food waste in his own community.
“A lot of the food that SD makes for lunch just gets thrown away,” Fleitas said. “So we try to get that and distribute it to food banks around Marin.”
With students teaming up and systems being put into place, Rothstein’s project is already making a measurable difference in the local community.
“Right now, we are projecting that there will be approximately two tons of food, or four thousand meals, rescued per year from San Domenico,” Rothstein said.
As the ROSE Project continues to evolve, students like Rothstein, and those inspired by his work, are showing how meaningful change can start right here on campus.
