Last week, we had the joy of welcoming students from High Tech High to the Dharma Bum Temple as part of their humanities curriculum exploring world religions. Over two consecutive days, approximately fifteen high school students each day visited the temple to learn more about Buddhism, not just as a philosophy in a textbook, but as a lived practice.

We began each visit with a guided meditation. For many of the students, it was their first time sitting in stillness together. The room grew quiet as they focused on their breath, experiencing firsthand one of the central practices of Buddhism: mindful awareness. It was powerful to witness young people pausing, reflecting, and settling into silence in a world that rarely slows down. 

After meditation, we opened the space for questions. The students asked thoughtful and sincere questions about the life of the Buddha, the Four Noble Truths, karma, compassion, and how Buddhism differs from other religions they are studying. Their curiosity led to meaningful dialogue about suffering, mindfulness, and how Buddhist principles can be applied in everyday life, especially during the challenges of adolescence.

The group met with Dharma Bum Temple co-founder Jeffrey Zlotnik, who shared the story of how the temple began and the intention behind creating a welcoming space for practice and community. The students were especially interested in how Buddhism shows up in modern American life and how spiritual communities can serve both contemplative and social purposes.

We are deeply grateful to the teachers and students of High Tech High for their openness and engagement. Interfaith learning and exposure to different traditions helps cultivate understanding, empathy, and respect which are all values that are at the heart of both education and Buddhist practice. 

We look forward to welcoming more students in the future and continuing to create space for dialogue, meditation, and shared learning. May their studies be guided by curiosity, compassion, and wisdom. 

Special thank you to their teacher Elyce, for giving these students an experience they will never forget!