Starting at a new school can be tough to navigate. Many new students enter the building not knowing any other students or adults on campus. At LES, we are always trying to find ways to help those students acclimate to a new school environment.
One of our favorite Loudon Elementary traditions is the new student lunch bunch with Mrs. Henry and Mrs. Kenslee. New students are gathered each semester to share a special pizza lunch. This time is used to build relationships with new students, ensure they are adjusting well to LES, and give them the opportunity to ask any questions they may have. Even though being new can be scary, lunch bunch teaches students that they are not alone, and they have other peers in the same boat to lean on.
An invitation is sent home with new students in grades 1 through 5 to let parents know about lunch bunch, get their permission, and ensure students have no food allergies. This is a great way to connect with new parents as well. Invitations were sent to over 30 new students this semester.
During lunch bunch, one 2nd grade student said, "My favorite part about Loudon Elementary School is that it has a lot of people and it's easy to make friends!" Another student was excited to meet a classmate from the same state. Mrs. Kenslee's favorite part of lunch bunch is hearing about all the different places our students moved from including Canda, California, Mexico, and even the Ukraine.
It's so heartwarming to see these students make friends and feel comfortable and welcome at LES!