Whether it is dealing with the increase of homework or just trying to make friends, middle school can be a tough period for just about anyone. These struggles can be especially difficult for the 7th graders who add around 40 new students to their class at the beginning of the year. In order to help welcome new students and bring the returning students closer together, 7th grade English teacher Jeff Wilson challenged his students to come up with an idea to help make the grade more inclusive.

   Wilson expected to receive ideas for simple plans, like sitting with someone new at lunch or saying “hi” to people you pass in the hallway. However, one of his students, Corinna Giordano, not only thought of a much more involved idea, but also implemented it. Giordano made small goody-bags with candy and a puzzle piece to give to fellow 7th graders in advisory. A table was set out in the library for students to leave their puzzle pieces, and the hope was that after a few days the puzzle would be complete.  

   “I came up with the puzzle Idea because I needed some way to prove that everybody is part of a bigger picture,” Giordano said. “I would like to see more people being included in friend groups.”

   Wilson plans to continue challenging his students to think of ideas to make Trinity an even more inclusive environment. “It starts with gratitude and recognizing the talents of other students and faculty members,” Wilson said of how others can contribute to a welcoming environment here at Trinity.

   As the 7th graders take action to become a more amiable and embracing class, hopefully the rest of Trinity can follow in their footsteps.