Fostering Community Through Reading: A Sixth Grade and Kindergarten Collaboration
Kate DeCamillo, an acclaimed American children’s author known for Because of Winn-Dixie and The Tiger Rising, once said, “When we read together, we connect. Together, we see the world. Together, we see one another.”
This sentiment happened during a recent inspiring literacy collaboration between sixth graders at Holmes Junior High and kindergarten students at Forest View Elementary School. The two schools, located just across the way from each other, collaborated to foster connection and creativity through the power of storytelling.
This story begins with Mrs. Hernandez and Mrs. Knapp, sixth-grade Advanced English Language Arts (AELA) teachers at Holmes Junior High, who guided their classes through a novel study of The Benefits of Being an Octopus by Ann Braden. The book tells the story of a seventh grader on a journey of self-discovery and personal empowerment, exploring themes of safety, love, and reflection.
After completing the study, the sixth graders were tasked to write their own stories, inspired by the same themes— they were called ‘Goodnight’ stories.
“Writing stories allows students to express their thoughts, feelings, and ideas creatively,” said Mrs. Knapp. “It encourages imagination and helps them develop their unique voice.”
The sixth graders’ ability to express their thoughts and creativity reached new heights when they read their stories to a group of kindergarten students at Forest View Elementary. The collaboration created meaningful interactions between the older and younger students, enhancing their social skills and understanding of each other’s perspectives.
“My favorite part about writing my story was being able to use my imagination and create a story that can provide joy for the kids,” Oliver, a sixth-grade student said.
Liam, another student in Mrs. Hernandez’s class added, “My favorite part about writing my story is knowing I will have these tiny kids that look up to me be able to share the same amount of joy I had while writing my story.”
The collaboration was equally rewarding for teachers, who enjoyed witnessing their students’ unique interpretations and ideas. The experience not only allowed students to learn the power of storytelling but how it can build connections.
“Storytelling improves writing and verbal communication skills while also allowing students to learn how to convey ideas effectively and engage an audience,” Mrs. Knapp said. “The experience was not only enriching for the students but also strengthened our school community as we worked together toward a common goal.”
As all of our students continue to read, write, and connect, we look forward to more partnerships that inspire our students to read together, and see the world—and each other—in new and meaningful ways.
