Welcome to SMES! New Tartans Receive Hand-Written Letters From Grade 2 and Grade 3 Peers

While exploring topics of peace, justice and inclusivity, spiritual practice students in grade 2 and grade 3 had a lively discussion on how to make St. Margaret’s a more peaceful, inclusive place—which led to a letter-writing project to all of the new students in the Lower School.

“We talked about this theme of inclusivity and belonging, which led to the students brainstorming times and places where they have felt both included and excluded,” Lower School spiritual practice teacher Jessie Akers said. “Students empathized with new students at St. Margaret’s about how they might feel starting at a new school and as a ‘welcoming’ gesture, they wrote letters to these new students.”

The letters varied in their message—words of encouragement, descriptions of what makes St. Margaret’s a great school, tips on what new students can look forward to, and often just a friendly hello to their new peers. Each letter also included St. Margaret’s stickers for the new students to have.

It’s one of several ways the Lower School reaches out and welcomes new students as they get acquainted with the school. In recent weeks, new students in grades 1-5 have met with Lower School Principal Jennifer Blount and assistant principal Maile Bellosi for lunch and conversation.

“We have been meeting with each cohort’s new students, eating lunch, getting to know more about them and letting them know our office is open to them should they have any questions or concerns,” Mrs. Blount said.

St. Margaret’s has 47 new students in grades 1-5, in addition to the kindergarten students starting their first year in the Lower School.