First grade has become pen pals with peer students at Carlthorp School in Santa Monica, California.* In preparation for their first letters, the students spent time learning about the Santa Monica area where their letters would be sent. They also learned about the parts of a letter structure, how to format one, and then began crafting what they would say. Students shared things such as the weather Providence has been having, a little information about themselves, and also asked questions they hope their pen pals will answer when they hear back. The morning before winter break, the class walked to the local post office to mail the letters themselves. Fun fact: Carlthorp School is where first grade teacher Kristen Morrissey previously taught, which helped foster the connection. 

*The first grade pen pal project with the Carlthorp School in Santa Monica, CA began in December before we’ve seen from afar the devastation unfolding from the wildfires in California. We are holding our new friends in the Light and hope that they remain safe during this uncertain time.