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Mallorie Madden, a 2nd-grade teacher at King-Robinson, submitted the following article about her school’s collaboration with another district high school:
It has been students teaching students in New Haven, as Hillhouse High School JROTC cadets have been working with elementary students at King/Robinson Inter-District Magnet School: An International Baccalaureate STEM School.
The cadets taught two first grade and three second grade classes, sharing Junior Achievement lessons related to communities and families. It is the seventh year that the two schools have partnered in this program. Providing children with positive role models, who illustrate ways to build self-confidence, develop skills and find avenues of success in our economic system, is a hallmark of Junior Achievement.
Upon the completion of the JA curriculum, the two schools have continued building their relationship through a buddy program. The Hillhouse JROTC cadets have partnered with Mrs. Madden’s second grade class throughout the school year to do various activities promoting social, emotional and physical wellness. The students worked with their buddies to complete holiday crafts promoting giving, valentines crafts promoting kindness.
The second graders also visited the cadets at Hillhouse to participate in team building activities promoting health and wellness. The Hillhouse JROTC cadets and second grade students look forward to an upcoming buddy event for earth day and King Robinson’s field day.
This has been a outstanding partnership with two New Haven schools. The high school students have begun making a difference in their community and impacting the younger student’s lives in positive ways. The elementary school students have seen, through the Hillhouse JROTC cadets, a glimpse of the importance of continuing their education, and the opportunities that can result from hard work and dedication.
Building this relationships has been instrumental as King/Robinson is a feeder school for Hillhouse. The cadets and second grade students are both equally excited to see each other every time a buddy event occurs. This has left a positive lasting impression on the cadets and second grade students. It has the second grade allowed them a glimpse into the high school life and has given them something to look forward to.
