High School Juniors Connect with 7th Grade Students Through Pen Pal Letters!
Kelly Shaw
Head Teacher at Aaron School 30th Street
Every winter the 7th grade students from 45th Street are welcomed into the 30th building for a tour and Q/A session with 30th Street administration and some of the students. The tour gives them a chance to explore 30th Street, meet teachers and counselors, and get a feel for what 8th grade and High School life is all about. As a way to connect the 7th grade students to our 30th Street students prior to their visit, a group of Juniors wrote letters to the current 7th grade students.
The Juniors have been students at Aaron School for several years and are well-acquainted with the school program at 30th Street, the special events and clubs offered, and have experienced many typical social challenges and triumphs that come with being a student at Aaron School 30th Street. This valuable transfer of information has proved to be quite beneficial to our 7th grade students as they enter this new chapter of their school journey. This also continues to build confidence and leadership skills in our Juniors.
In creating these letters, the Juniors first brainstormed their favorite events, activities, and memories from their time at Aaron 30th Street. They then reflected on these experiences and offered a piece of advice they wished they would have received when starting 8th grade.
Their advice included heartfelt gems like:
- “The first day of school is the first step in a great adventure.”
- “Don’t be afraid to sign up for Spirit Council! You can meet new friends and plan activities.”
- “If you don’t know what to do, just ask someone – other kids are probably in the same boat.”
These letters were sent to the 45th Street campus just before Winter Break. After the 7th grade students returned and completed their midterms, they eagerly read these letters! In February, the 7th grade students had their tour of Aaron School 30th Street, and also responded to the letters they received with many great questions. In late spring, the two groups will have a “meet and greet” lunch, where they will deepen their connection and finally meet their pen pal in person.