This post was published on Henry Herald on April 19, 2019, by Heather Middleton
STOCKBRIDGE — Sixty-five Stockbridge High School students from the Lead2Feed Student Leadership Program partnered with Community in Schools to give Cotton Indian Elementary kindergartners an afternoon of fun.
The Spring Fling kicked off with an Easter egg hunt, followed by kite flying, face painting, sidewalk chalk drawing, games and enjoying snacks like popcorn and cotton candy.
The event was the Lead2Feed students’ community project.
“They decided they wanted to do something for the elementary kids,” said Lead2Feed Adviser and teacher Chef Leigh Jackson. “They thought it would be a whole lot of fun.”
Jackson said the project also gave the younger kids an opportunity to get to know the high school students and create a bond with them.
“Having positive interactions with the grown kids is really important,” she said. “It helps to bridge the age gap and develop relationships.”
Brandy Smith has been a kindergarten teacher for 24 years at Cotton Indian. She said it was the first time Stockbridge High reached out to build a partnership.
“The littles see the big kids as role models,” Smith said. “They see them being service-oriented and as an example of how to grow up to be responsible adults.”
Judging by the laughter and excitement, Jackson said the Spring Fling was a success.
“My kids took this on and learned how to plan everything from start to finish,” Jackson said. “The kids have had a great time out here today. It’s been wonderful.”