At McKinley Elementary, second-grade students aren’t just learning how to write—they’re learning how to connect. In a heartwarming project called “Pen Paws,” students wrote surprise letters to staff members across the school, putting their writing skills into action and spreading joy in the process.
A Letter Writing Project That Builds Real-World Skills
This hands-on activity gave students an authentic reason to practice their writing, formatting, and envelope-addressing skills—an important milestone in second grade. Each student was guided through the entire process:
- Choosing a staff member to surprise
- Writing a friendly, personal message
- Sealing and addressing their letter
- Hand-delivering their mail around the building
The surprise on the faces of secretaries, janitors, teachers, and other staff members was priceless—and the students’ pride in their work made it even more powerful.
Why It Worked
The Pen Paws project is a great example of integrating ELA standards with social-emotional learning and school culture. Students learned:
- How to write a friendly letter
- How to express appreciation and thoughtfulness
- How mail works—from message to mailbox
- Confidence in speaking and delivering their work
Try It In Your Classroom
Want to recreate this idea in your school? Here’s a simple breakdown:
- Teach Letter Basics
Show students how to structure a friendly letter—date, greeting, body, closing, signature. - Pick Staff Recipients
Brainstorm people in your school who make a difference behind the scenes. Print a staff list with photos if possible. - Station Setup
Create writing, envelope, and sealing stations to make it fun and hands-on. Don’t forget stickers! - Deliver Mail Around the School
Let students walk the halls and deliver their letters personally—it’s half the fun. - Celebrate the Smiles
Capture reactions (with permission) or have students reflect on how it felt to spread kindness.
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