When West Jordan Middle School Health Teacher Kathy Howa heard that some residents of a local care center couldn’t see family members or other visitors right now due to the Coronavirus, Ms. Howa had an idea. She decided to give her students an assignment. As part of her online at-home learning health curriculum, Ms. Howa asked the students to write letters to the lonely residents, hoping to cheer them up.

In no time at all the student letters started arriving in Ms. Howa’s email. They were addressed to “A Special Person,” with messages of love and support for individuals in the care center. Students encouraged the residents to try and be strong through these difficult times, sheltered from family and loved ones. The students said they simply want the residents to know that they are loved and cared for, even by young people they have never met. In fact, some of the students hope their letters will result in a long-term pen pal relationship with the residents.

We are so proud of our teachers and students, helping to support those in need of a little love and friendship right now.