Middle School Launches “Mensch Money” Challenge

At Westchester Day School, we believe that developing strong character is just as important as academic excellence. This March, our Middle School launched Mensch Money, a month-long initiative designed to encourage students to lead with kindness, humility, and self-awareness.

The program challenges students to earn Mensch Dollars by demonstrating exemplary behavior, compassion, and menschlichkeit in and out of the classroom. Teachers and deans award these dollars as recognition for moments when students go above and beyond to support their peers, take responsibility, or embody WDS values in meaningful ways.

But Mensch Money isn’t just about incentives — it’s also about impact. Each dollar features the Bring Them Home ribbon, and students have been reminded that every mitzvah they perform is dedicated in merit of the hostages still in captivity, their families, and Jewish communities around the world who are uniting against antisemitism.

In early May, students will have the chance to enter raffles using their hard-earned Mensch Dollars. The prizes range from individual perks like hot chocolate service and nail spas to exciting grade-wide experiences like themed movie nights, lunch trivia cafés, painting parties, and even the opportunity to be Principal for a Day.

As the challenge continues, acts of kindness are being celebrated daily. The halls of WDS Middle School are buzzing with a renewed sense of purpose, generosity, and joy. We are proud of our students for rising to the occasion and leading by example — one Mensch Dollar at a time.