Students at GFW Elementary School wasted no time in getting into amazing activities after the winter break. We were excited to be able to partner with Youth Frontiers which is an organization that aims to reach kids at critical ages to provide them with dynamic experiences that enhance self-awareness, empathy and connectedness for a fun and informative day of learning.
Fifth graders made their way to the former elementary building for an all-day retreat that was filled with refreshing and energizing activities. Through a variety of games, content lessons, music, and dance, students were able to not only have fun together, but to create strong connections with each other.
With the help of four GFW High School Student Council members, Mrs. Thompson, and Mrs. Schiro, Youth Frontiers staff held several small group break outs and presented information all about kindness.
Students especially enjoyed meeting the Youth Frontier leaders and having the high school students as part of the retreat. The music was led and performed by a professional musician and students had a great time clapping and singing along.
Not only is this initiative a fun day for students, it’s a great way to create collaboration with the high school volunteers, and form a commitment to making the school environment a place where every single student can thrive.
Principal Thompson was on hand throughout the event and said that it was such a great way for the oldest elementary students to feel empowered to lead, learn, and grow.
“Fifth graders often experience social challenges such as exclusion, misunderstandings, and peer pressure,” said Mrs. Thompson. “The kindness retreat encouraged students to listen to one another, work together, and stand up against unkind behavior at school.”
The retreat day culminated with sharing to give students the chance to be heard by their classmates and work together. At the end of the retreat, students chose one way that they could help kindness spread at school and committed to doing so. We look forward to seeing what kind of an impact this has on our school community!
