Every Menlo School student belongs to an advocacy group of approximately ten to 12 students and one Advocate. The advocacy program bridges home and school by providing opportunities for a small group of students to build a close relationship with a caring adult on campus. Each group establishes norms, supports members through good and challenging times, fosters positive learning experiences, and works to establish collaboration with others.

Groups meet during scheduled student life blocks throughout the year. The advocate’s role is to provide support, promote constructive communication with peers and adults, counsel students on academic progress, and provide opportunities for social development within a structured environment. Parents are encouraged to call or email the advocate with any concerns relating to their child. If the concern is confined to an issue within a single subject area, then the classroom teacher of that subject should be contacted first and copy the advocate.

Upper School advocates stay with their students for all four years. Middle School students get a new advocate each year, as Middle School advocates are members of the grade-level team.