K Pals Program Builds Community on Campus

It all started with a school –wide commitment to D.E.A.R. – that is Drop Everything and Read. Every Friday the entire campus took to the library, classroom floor or nearest cushy chair to spend 20 minutes immersed in a good book, article or graphic novel. Whatever the format- the goal was to READ - something Mayfield students already loved. This was great- but why not share the experience? Now in its third year the K Pals activity builds relationships through reading. For twenty minutes on Friday afternoons kindergarteners and 6th graders pair up and take over the Primary Courtyard to share a moment together with a good book. Both age groups so look forward to Friday afternoons that time flies by, friendships grow and memories are made. The connection made was so strong that sixth grade advisors put together a Wednesday afternoon retreat for the two grade levels where the power of friendship was an overriding theme. Call it play therapy as the 6th graders and their kindergarten pals ran, jumped, danced and even created special handshakes all in the spirit of freedom and fun – a retreat from a regular Wednesday and a chance to appreciate the moment – together.