Project MARS/AmeriCorps collects “Great Stories” from its members in which they reflect on their experiences mentoring in the classroom and the progress they see in students. This month’s story was written by Neil Perl, pictured.
Some of the students at our after-school program have poor feelings like, why can’t I go home, where are my parents, I feel unimportant.
My first day back in our after-school program after winter break was relatively warm, comfortable enough to be outside. The students were bored of the games and art activities and wanted something to get them engaged.
One of the younger students suggested the idea of making a campfire. What a great idea! Everyone was on board. We built our fire pit and collected wood together. We lit the fire and cooked food. It was a great experience.
What really stood out was how the older students mentored the younger students. They have grown and matured under our guidance and were sharing their growth with the younger students. Our whole after-school group bonded over stories, fire tips, and cooking.
No one went home feeling sorry for themselves. Instead, they looked forward to the next after-school where we could build a fire together, in the specially made after-school fire pit.
