Kenwood Elementary partners with Brookestone Gardens, benefits students, seniors

KEARNEY — The Kearney Public Schools Board of Education learned about Kenwood Elementary’s partnership with Brookestone Gardens and how it benefits students and seniors alike during their meeting on Monday, Nov. 10.

Michelle Dutcher, Kenwood Elementary principal, said that the partnership with Brookestone Garden, the retirement facility one mile down the road from the elementary, started as a way to expand the student’s reading opportunities and had grown into what it is today.

“Our objective for partnering 5th grade students with members of the nearby retirement facility is to foster intergenerational relationships that promote mutual learning and understanding,” Dutcher stated.

“Through shared reading and social activities, we aim to enhance the students’ reading skills, broaden their perspective and encourage a sense of community and empathy,” said Dutcher.

At the same time, the seniors are provided with chances for social engagement, cognitive stimulation and a continued sense of purpose.

The 5th grade students visit the facility once a month for 45 minutes to read with the residents, which helps to sharpen their reading skills. Following this, each group enjoys social time together.

Twice a year, some of the Brookestone residents were invited to Kenwood. In December, they enjoyed a game of Bingo, holiday treats and a tour of the facility.

“The shared experience of celebrating the holidays together created cherished memories for both the students and the residents,” Dutcher said.

In May, at the end of the school year, Kenwood hosted a special event to commemorate the time spent together between the 5th graders and the residents. The celebration included the 5th graders putting on a career wax museum.

The Brookestone residents gave back to the students by putting on a coat drive for students in need during the month of December, they were able to gather and donate many brand-new coats which were given to students in need, Dutcher stated.

The visits have had impacts on the residents, as detailed by an email that was sent to Kenwood from a family member of a Brookestone resident.

“My mom is a former teacher and a new resident at the facility. She is struggling a bit with her new situation, and this was a wonderful experience for her today. (A student) spent time reading and visiting with my mom. Thank you to everyone involved who made this happen,” the email stated.

Dutcher said this partnership has brought “tremendous benefits” to both the students and the residents. The students have been able to develop their reading skills and gain a deeper appreciation for the different generations.

The residents have gained valuable social engagement, cognitive stimulation and the ability to mentor the younger generations.

Dutcher said the next steps in the future could be expanding this beyond the 5th grade students or create a “teammate” type experience. There were also thoughts of hosting events at the Peterson Senior Activity Center which is within walking distance of the school.