Publix, a local grocery store, and the teachers at Greenway Elementary, worked together to help parents and children solve real world shopping problems using skills the students have been studying in school. (Problems were provided in three learning levels - K-1, 2-3, and 4-5) The children had a chance to share learning with their parents, and gave teachers and opportunity to model for parents something they can do to help their children learn and reinforce their skills using ordinary, everyday activities!
Teachers met families as they came into the store, welcoming them, and providing information. Families visited a variety of stations set up throughout the store solving problems together. Publix provided snack foods and drinks and a treat bag (coloring book, crayons, and an apple) for everyone who attended. More teachers were stationed at the store exit, to thank parents and students for attending – and giving students a homework pass for attending the event.
Notice what this school did. They took the activity off the school campus, to a place that is familiar ground for families - the grocery store. They made sure they welcomed families, and created an opportunity to build relationships. They linked to learning - giving children and families a chance to share learning. We often hear from parents that they want to help their children at home, but they don't know what to do. The Greenway teachers used this fun opportunity to show parents how to use something they already do - grocery shopping - to reinforce what students are learning. And Publix not only made the night fun for the kids, but they build customer loyalty in the short run, and a better workforce down the road!
Kudos to Greenway Elementary and Publix Supermarket for an outstanding example of creating an Engaged Learning Community!
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