On Wednesday, March 18, student leaders from Kennedy and Mepham High Schools co-hosted the inaugural Common Ground Conference.  

The event, led by social studies/leadership teachers Brad Seidman of Kennedy and Jacqueline Geller of Mepham, brought together more than 200 students from ten Nassau County high schools to participate in civil discourse and examine the shared values that exist across political and social differences. 

Participating schools included Baldwin, Syosset, Roslyn, Herricks, Division, Malverne, Calhoun, and Carle Place. 

This student-led initiative aimed to counter the growing tendency to dismiss opposing viewpoints. Instead of focusing on debate and persuasion, students were encouraged to listen actively to better understand their peers' underlying beliefs and perspectives. 

The conference began with a diverse Interfaith Panel, featuring local religious and secular leaders who discussed how their traditions emphasize human dignity, mutual respect, and community.  

Following the panel, students took part in “Courageous Conversation” breakout sessions facilitated by seniors from JFK’s Leadership III class and Mepham’s Leadership program. These small-group discussions addressed complex and often sensitive topics, including national security, immigration, the right to die, and cultural representation. 

The Common Ground Conference was the culmination of several months of student planning and curriculum-based preparation.