The First Friends program at Penn Elementary School plays a crucial role in creating an inclusive learning environment and serves as a welcoming committee for new students throughout the school year. This year, the program, which includes students from second grade through fifth, boasts 40 “first friends.”

These student ambassadors help new classmates acclimate to their new environment, ensuring they feel comfortable and included from day one. Each class also has a Purple Star First Friend, who specifically supports incoming military-connected students.

The impact of the First Friends program has been profound. Coordinated by school counselors Erin Schneider and Amy Sutherland, with teacher cooperation and support, new students often feel more at ease and integrated into the school community. Schneider highlighted the essence of the program by stating, "A friend is someone who makes it easy to believe in yourself. Through the First Friends program, we create a welcoming community where every new student feels valued and at home."

The program encourages leadership and empathy among the first friends, who learn valuable skills in communication, responsibility, and inclusivity, contributing to a more cohesive and supportive school environment for everyone.

Gabriel, who joined Penn last year, shared his experience, "Ava and Elias helped me and were kind to me. They were my first friends." Now, Gabriel is paying it forward by being a first friend to new students at Penn this year.

First friends are not only ambassadors but also role models. They participate in various school activities, such as the career fair, and have previously helped with the "Say Hello" event before the school year starts. Their leadership extends to small group lunches, where they assist their classmates in building friendships and fostering a supportive school environment.

The First Friends program at Penn stands out as a shining example of how schools can create inclusive and welcoming environments for all students.