In 2018, Andale’s Elementary faculty members came together to form a way to develop relationships between the older and younger students. They took students from kindergarten – eighth grade and randomly placed them in groups. The groups consisted of one student from every grade and a teacher. These groups now get together once a month to do art activities, talk, and get to know each other. This became known as Falcon Families. This is a great way for kids to take on new responsibilities, interact with different grades and have fun.

The Falcon Family committee meets up once a month and decides the activities that we will do for the next event. There are many activities we do such as coloring, making paper chains, playing games and a fan favorite, painting. Some of the things we have painted in the past included pumpkin and rock painting. 

Jeff Buchanan, Andale’s Vice Principal said, “It’s a way to create a long-lasting relationship for years to come. It gives the older students a chance to be role models for the younger students to look up to.” It also gives students the opportunity to talk to people outside their grade and build relationships. 

Overall, Falcon Families is a great way to bond with other students and has helped me make friends in other grades. The students enjoy being a part of Falcon Families and look forward to it every month.