There’s something special about witnessing a child’s face light up when receiving a new toy. Kindergarteners from Johnston Elementary School (JES) filled one store in the Asheville Mall with excitement as they welcomed ‘beary’ new friends to their classrooms.
Last school year, a group of donors worked together to help enhance the learning experience for all kindergarten students. At this special event, students received their very own Build-A-Bear. A donor decided to give the students a Build-A-Bear this school year but with a twist.
Students and teachers took a field trip to the Asheville Mall where they were able to build their own teddy bear. For some, this was an unforgettable first-time experience.
“The bears will support the students' literacy and math development, as well as support social and emotional development,” said kindergarten teacher Shanna Buckner. “We will promote a love for reading by having students read to their bears. The opportunities are endless when it comes to building the students' learning experiences both inside and outside the classroom.”
Ms. Buckner said this field trip was nothing short of magical.
“When the students built their bears there was so much excitement and joy that filled the room,” she said. “Students were smiling and hugging their bears. Many couldn’t wait to name theirs.”
Once all the bears were made the students later welcomed their parents and guardians to meet their new friends at a Teddy Bear Breakfast. Students received a smaller bear at the breakfast to take home with them. At the end of the school year, they will take their Build-A-Bears home where more learning and adventures await.
Principal Angie Trantham is overwhelmed with joy by the outpouring of support from the community as this tradition continues to grow each year.
“To be able to provide a family-friendly event with food and great information is always a win-win,” she said. “Our goal is to ensure our families always feel welcomed and supported -- an integral part of their student's education. The teachers in this building have GREAT ideas for involving families and equipping them with the tools they need to connect with our curriculum and to reinforce meaningful concepts at home. When your students, teachers, and parents all come together with enthusiasm and support, a leader can't ask for more.”
A big thank you goes out to Alan and Tonia Shepherd of Alan’s Jewelry and Pawn for providing the students an opportunity to go to Build-A-Bear.
