John Young Middle School Secures Martin’s Grant for Exciting ‘Fun Fridays’ Initiative!

MISHAWAKA, Ind. (WNDU) – Every Friday, intense competitions take place during “Fun Fridays” at John Young Middle School in Mishawaka.

“Currently, we’re playing Spot It,” mentioned Riah Stychalski, an eighth grader. “It’s where we lay down cards, and as soon as we have them, we have to choose which cards correspond.”

However, “Fun Fridays” offer more than just entertainment. There is a significant reason behind it.

“It’s essential for us to acknowledge that we’re performing well and achieving our good grades. And we are rewarded in that manner,” stated Stychalski.

At the end of the week, there’s a one-hour session where students who require assistance with assignments can receive it, while others can engage in games. But there is one guideline:

“No technology allowed,” declared Principal Rebecca Cummings. “I believe the students have truly embraced it. Initially, it was a strange notion for them. They are very attached to their devices.”

“On our phones, we’re just fixated on a screen the entire time and we’re not genuinely interacting with others,” said Shania Davis, an eighth grader. “But when we’re engaged in games at school with our friends, we have the opportunity to socialize and participate in everything else.”

The Martin’s grant will aid in replacing outdated games and provide them a chance to explore new ones.

“That’s my aspiration. To acquire more items that pique their interest,” Cummings expressed.

“We put in a lot of effort during school hours, and then having this “Fun Fridays” at the week’s end allows us to unwind,” Davis noted.

If you want to recommend your school for a Martin’s One School at a Time grant, click here for the application form.

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