It’s been another successful year for the Safety Patrol at McKenna Elementary School, a group of fifth graders dedicated to fostering a welcoming environment.
Safety Patrol members arrive to school about 20 minutes early each morning, put on their bright neon sashes and head to their posts. They greet kindergartners and first graders at the entrances and walk them to their classes. Assistant Principal Mary Anne Ferraro said the purpose of Safety Patrol is to give fifth graders the opportunity to be leaders in the school while creating meaningful connections between McKenna’s oldest and youngest learners.
“It’s about creating a friendly environment in our hallways,” Ms. Ferraro said. “Our fifth graders have developed these great friendships with kindergartners and first graders.”
Three groups of fifth graders took on Safety Patrol duty throughout the year. Ms. Ferraro said that because the program is so popular, this gives every interested fifth grader a chance to be a part of it for a few months.
“I like greeting the kids at the doors and making them feel comfortable coming into school,” Isabella R. said.
Lila F. said that over the past few months, she has made many friends in other grades. The best part of the experience, she explained, has been the conversations they have while walking side by side down the hall. Declan C. said he joined Safety Patrol because he likes being helpful and it feels good to make a positive difference.