Merrill Gardens at The University, in Seattle, WA, has established a partnership with a second-grade class and the teacher, Ms. Nikki over the past few years. The students at Our Lady of The Lake Parish School and their “Grandfriends” take turns visiting each other every month.
During their last visit, the students taught their Grandfriends how to make paper snowflakes!
The seniors and second graders love spending time together and their activities range from trick or treating at residents’ apartments, to Easter egg hunts, to frosting cookies, and even potato sack races!
When the residents visit their school friends in the classroom, the principal always stops by to say hello and he also makes sure to invite the residents to school events such as musical productions and shows.
The residents really enjoy building relationships with the students and watching them progress throughout the year – especially in their reading and writing skills. We want to send a big thank you to Our Lady of The Lake Parish School for this fantastic inter-generational partnership!