Schools

Bridging the Gap Connects Kids at Taylor Middle School

The program was founded to engender understanding between kids, some who have special needs.

 

A program meant to foster understanding, tolerance, appreciation, and laughter within the Millbrae School District continues to thrive.

Bridging the Gap, founded by nine-year-old student Jarryck Whittington, brings together students from Hillsdale High School and Laurel Elementary to mix with mainstreamed and special needs students who attend Taylor Middle School.

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Most recently, the group met at Taylor on May 17. Activities include a BBQ, popcorn, a sundae bar, refreshments, goodie boxes, games, crafts and a video presentation.

According to teacher Coryne Wong, "The Hillsdale High School students, who were the original 'little buddies,' showed up, as well as the current little buddies from Laurel Elementary! Taylor Middle School and the Special Day Class joined in to make it a wonderful, wonderful day! My students, again, bridged the gap," in showing all!  The little kids kept walking up to everyone to hug them, the big kids practiced their social skills, organization, and planning. In all, we did Bridge the Gap!"

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Wong recalls a conversation among students she overheard outside her Taylor classroom after posting photos of the Bridging the Gap activities. Two of the Taylor students were amused by the pictures. At that point, according to Wong, four other Taylor kids walked up to them and said "Excuse me! Do you not know how cool these kids are? What are you saying!"

Pictures attached to this article include the May 17 get-together; an April 2011 Spring celebration; and December 2010 and 2011 Christmas in my Classroom celebrations.

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