Forest Hills — About 740 fourth-graders gathered recently on the Forest Hills Northern High School football field with the goal of getting to know one another and building a sense of belonging.
Many of the district’s fourth-graders will move to new buildings where three elementary schools converge, so the event gave students an opportunity to meet others in a fun setting, said Tamasha James, district director of student success.
The Shared Voices Committee, a student-led group focused on belonging, inclusivity and kindness, helped plan the event. National Honor Society students and district staff — including administrators, custodians, athletic directors and security — also helped lead activities and interact with students.
Fourth-graders were divided into groups by last name so they could meet peers from different buildings. The groups then took part in a series of bonding activities designed to help them get to know one another, James said.
“I think it’s a great lesson that people from everywhere can come together and have fun,” said Calistra Eversole, who attends Pine Ridge Elementary.
Jones Solberg, another student at Pine Ridge, said the event’s most popular game was one in which students used pool noodles to knock a cup off an opponent’s pool noodle while protecting their own cup.
“It’s been fun,” Jones said. “I like seeing all the different fourth-graders and making new friends.”
Iris Gingerich, who attends Meadow Brook Elementary, said “I’m excited about making new friends and exploring new places.”
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