Continuing a fun-filled writing tradition, 2nd graders at Oak Grove and Braelinn united for the annual Pen Pal Picnic at the Park after a school year of correspondence.
The bi-monthly opportunity provides students with a pen pal that they do not know, sparking curiosity and inspiring students to write. Through the process, the students learn the importance of writing legibly and in a way that others will understand. They are allowed to write whatever they want, but they are encouraged to ask their pen pal at least one question in each letter so they can learn and take interest in their pal’s life inside and outside of school.
The partnership was started during the 2021-22 school year by Oak Grove teacher Lauren Toering and Braelinn teacher Wendy Stevens between their classes. The rest of the 2nd grade at both schools joined the following year.
Toering loves watching students grow as writers and build their own “community” with another school through the unified project.
“The students eagerly awaited their weekly pen pal letters,” she said. “We hope the students develop a love for writing through this memorable experience. We know that students are engaged in learning when they feel invested.”
