On October 1, Bolles upper school students participated in Spark Day – a non-class day of both reflection and action designed to help Bulldogs reach various personal and academic goals.

For freshmen, the Spark Day program focused heavily on service, with the Bulldogs encouraged to “think global, act local.” The Class of 2029 hit the ground running in the morning, completing service projects for the following organizations: Ronald McDonald House, Angelwood, Catholic Charities, North Florida School of Special Education (Barkin’ Biscuits and Equestrian Center), Jewish Family & Community Services (JFCS), Mandarin Museum, St. Johns Riverkeeper, Sanctuary on 8th Street, Pine Castle, Feeding Northeast Florida, Lutheran Social Services and UCOM Jax. In the afternoon, Bolles Director of Global Learning and Engagement Allison Chandler invited the freshmen to explore the global meaning of service, looking at the topic through the lens of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Then, the students raced around the San Jose Campus in small teams for a globally focused scavenger hunt that challenged them to put their SDG knowledge to the test. View pictures of the freshmen’s experience here.

Sophomores spent Spark Day exploring college life firsthand with visits to two local universities: the University of North Florida (UNF) and Jacksonville University (JU). At UNF, students toured campus facilities, learned about academic programs and gained insight into student life and admissions. The visit offered a valuable glimpse into what it means to be part of a larger university community. At JU, the experience was equally engaging, with students meeting faculty and staff and learning about the university’s unique offerings. A highlight of the visit was a student panel followed by closing remarks from Bolles Board of Trustees member DeCovan “Dee” Brown ’86, who serves as Executive Senior Associate Athletic Director for Athletics Strategy and Innovation at JU. Brown reflected on his time as a student-athlete at both Bolles and JU, sharing stories of perseverance, leadership and personal growth. Visit our online photo gallery to view pictures from both tours here.

While juniors focused on their futures by taking the PSAT in the morning, seniors spent the day with the Bolles Department of College Counseling working on their college applications and other aspects of the admissions process during part two of Camp College. The Class of 2026 worked through a series of activities led by their college counselors – including one asking them to think about why they chose Bolles, or their projected college majors, to help them brainstorm stand-out aspects of different universities they’re considering. They also learned more about Bright Futures and financial aid and wrote letters to Bolles lower school students who made them cards earlier in the school year. View pictures from Camp College here.

Thank you to everyone who made Spark Day possible! #BollesSanJose