Service project takes over classrooms at Falcon Ridge Elementary

When most classrooms were filled with the sounds of anxious children getting ready for winter break in December, the fifth grade students at Falcon Ridge were anxiously waiting to get started on a service project.

“We work to hold their attention and keep learning right up to the end, but realize that the last day before the break can be a real struggle,” principal Karen Thomson said. “This way, they are participating in a service learning activity that helps them and those they are giving service to.”

For weeks leading up to the break, parents donated blanket fleece that was turned into blankets for children spending the holiday at Primary Children’s Medical Center. This year, students had enough material donated to make 50 blankets.

“The kids get really excited about the project,” teacher Shanda Mattsson said. “They make it a little competition to see which of the fifth grade classes can get the most fleece donated, and then they love bringing their parents to school to help make the blankets.”

This is the fourth year that Falcon Ridge fifth graders have made the blankets.

“It’s a great thing to see kids helping other kids,” Thomson said.