The second grade has begun to consider how we can act as kind citizens while working and playing at school and how we can show caring and kindness within the greater Montclair community. This Thursday, 2M walked from our campus to Toni’s Kitchen, a community gathering place that serves neighbors who are in need. 2S visited Toni’s Kitchen on Friday, and 2N will be taking the trip next week. On the walk, children each carried a food item to donate to Toni's Kitchen. Second graders toured the kitchen area, where meals are prepared by dedicated volunteers; the food pantry, where donated foods are stored; and saw a giant salad bowl that serves 50 people or more! Students then helped pack backpacks with non-perishable food supplies for children in Montclair. Students started to realize how important a role Toni’s Kitchen plays in their local community. We were proud to help and appreciate Toni’s Kitchen commitment to making Montclair a more inclusive and caring place for all of our neighbors. Later in the year, we will integrate our service learning experience at Toni's Kitchen in our social studies unit about towns.