HOUSE HISTORY: 

Altruismo traces its origins to the rainforests of the Amazon, where a group of powerful Brazilians were given the name because of the Portuguese meaning behind it: “the Givers.” This special group is known for striking a balance between bold strength and altruistic giving — a team that knows that real power comes not from looking out for yourself but from empowering others. They care deeply about lifting others up, but they also maintain a fiercely competitive spirit and pride. Historically, the House has been known for its smart and driven students, and Altruismo has produced more valedictorians per class to this day. Its members have been very involved in every club, committee, or activity that a school offers. Therefore, Altruismo takes great pride in being a cultivator of real leadership and instills a strong spirit within new members to grow into and live up to this legacy. Altruismo’s rival is Rêveur. When the first House Championship was held, Altruismo and Rêveur were neck and neck. In the end, Altruismo, led by the student House Leader Tasleem Wilson, defeated Rêveur by one point. This stinging defeat prompted Rêveur’s staff House Leader, Mr. Ron Clark, to jokingly call Altruismo a House of snakes! But Altruismo chose to take this and turn it into their own secret symbolic animal. That is why, even though the crest features a griffin, members of Altruismo can be heard making a hissing sound — Sss! — or seen holding their hands like a quivering snake. They turned the symbol of a snake into something that doesn’t represent evil, but instead represents a bold and fierce power that is ready to strike and do great things at any moment. 

TRADITIONS 

One of Altruismo’s traditions is hosting a holiday potluck each year where all of the students and parents of Altruismo bring food and celebrate. This communal meal shows their mission of being a House of giving.