Students spread Valentine’s Day wishes at care facility

The tradition of sending notes and cards to loved ones for Valentine’s Day originated in the 1700s. Fourth and fifth grade students at Meyersdale Elementary School have embraced that sentiment and created handwritten cards for residents at a local nursing home. More than 100 cards were created for the men and women at Meyersdale Healthcare and Rehabilitation Center and sent to arrive on Valentine’s Day.

“The fourth and fifth grade students used their knowledge of friendly letters to create beautiful Valentine cards for the residents. Inside the cards they shared their hobbies, ambitions and current events at school,” explained Mrs. Amanada McNelly, fifth grade teacher.

McNelly said students were working on their Friendly Letter Unit and discussing who would most appreciate a “friendly letter.”

“We shared, in class, our stories about grandparents and how lonely life can be for the elderly. Most of them could relate, because they have had grandparents or great grandparents that lived alone or at a nursing facility. We also talked a lot about how a simple gesture, like a letter/card, can change someone’s entire day,” McNelly explained. “I think letter writing is a dying art, so I try to teach the students the importance of sending letters and thank-you cards. I think this project, in particular, was important, because it teaches empathy too.”

Students spent two days working on their creations and were excited to finish them, knowing their words would be shared and enjoyed by residents at the local nursing home.

“They were very enthusiastic about this activity and excited to make a difference in someone else’s life,” McNelly added.