A unique opportunity for fifth grade scholars
Each fall, fifth grade students from Basswood, Edinbrook, Elm Creek and Park Brook elementary schools who are interested in this opportunity write an essay to explain why they are the best candidates to represent their school for this project. Staff members at each school read and rank the essays, without knowledge of who the students are, and the student with the highest ranking at each site is chosen for the project.
Preparing for the trip
After being selected as their school representative, the fifth graders meet twice per month to prepare for the trip and their fundraising. The students study Mexican culture; learn a few Spanish phrases; and write to their pen pals at Sopori Elementary School in Amado, Arizona.
All four participating elementary schools host school supply drives where students, staff and families can donate money to the project. The fifth grade representatives also reach out to community organizations and partners for financial assistance. This opportunity not only allows Osseo Area Schools students the chance to contribute to the greater global community, but also to hone their public speaking and writing skills.
Traveling to Sasabe
The Students Connecting Through International Service experience culminates in the spring with the fifth grade representatives taking a trip to distribute the supplies and then returning home to recap their experiences for classmates, school board members and community partners. Each year, a different principal from one of the participating elementary schools travels with the team.