In September, the fourth-graders from both the Downtown and Swain Campuses met virtually to learn more about each other and their respective schools. That activity paved the way for a monthly pen pal exchange with each other.

Through these emails, students learned about their similarities and differences. They had great questions for each other and were able to practice their writing skills in the process. 

On Monday, December 12, these students got a chance to meet in person! The fourth-graders from the Swain Campus hosted the fourth graders from the Downtown Campus for a morning of activities, food, play, and a STEAM activity. When Downtown students arrived at Swain and met their pen pals, it was as if they had known each other for a long time! Students instantly made connections with each other and asked each other more questions.

After eating lunch together, students engaged in a STEAM activity called the Marshmallow Challenge! Pen pals had to work together to build the tallest free-standing structure using only 1 large marshmallow, 5 small marshmallows, 20 spaghetti noodles, 1 yard of string and 1 yard of tape. Students ended their visit by getting a chance to play together at recess. The fourth-graders were excited to have had the opportunity to spend time with their pen pals and are eager to continue the email exchange. The Downtown students also look forward to inviting their Swain pen pals to campus sometime in the new year!