Sixth graders Zayid Padilla-Morales and Adelyn Caouette help record morning announcements for Grant Elementary, sharing schoolwide events, menu options, and reminders. “Good morning, Grant! I’m Zayid and this is my co-host, Adelyn,” the pair recently shared while practicing with a teleprompter, closing with a cheerful, “Thanks for tuning in!”
What began as student feedback has grown into a schoolwide effort to build belonging and connection at Grant Elementary. A new Student Jobs Program created by counselor Orion Royster gives sixth graders meaningful, real-world responsibilities that support their school. Launched this fall and expanding to fifth grade in coming weeks, the program provides opportunities for students to contribute during non-instructional time, such as recess, lunch, and before or after school.
Currently, there are over 25 different types of jobs ranging from breakfast duty, bus patrol, classroom helpers, math tutors, greeters, and new student orientation. Students applied, ranked their top job choices, and were matched based on interests and school needs. This year, 85 sixth graders are participating, with approximately 70 fifth graders joining soon. Students receive name badges, schedules, and specialized training, just like adults in the workplace.
The idea grew from student survey feedback and Royster’s desire to increase students’ sense of belonging, voice, and value.
“This gives students meaningful jobs outside of their classroom, instills the spirit of responsibility and volunteerism, and connects them to other students,” Royster said. “It gives them a chance to give back to their school community.”
Teachers across the school say the impact is immediate:
“The helpers are amazing because kindergartners often need one-on-one support,” said kindergarten teacher Megan Chambers. “The students are also excited to have ‘big kids’ help them, which builds a strong sense of community.”
Life skills teacher Rebecca Lundberg shared that the program builds inclusion and compassion, helping students see one another as peers.
Kindergarten teacher Grace Dorey added that extra hands during breakfast and playtime allow her to better connect with students and strengthen relationships between younger learners and sixth-grade mentors.
Students take their roles seriously, even letting Royster know when they will be “missing work” due to appointments or vacations. Some arrive early to start their shifts and build connections with peers they might not normally interact with. The program also supports soft skills like self-advocacy, teamwork, and leadership, with a focus on internal motivation rather than compensation.
Two students, Hunter Lau and Ethan Rappuhn, were recently recognized at a school board meeting for going above and beyond in their roles, demonstrating pride and responsibility in serving their school.
The Student Jobs program reflects the district’s focus on student well-being and belonging, while also helping students build real-world skills. Royster hopes to expand Student Jobs to fourth grade next year, extending these opportunities to more students at Grant. The goal is simple but powerful: create more opportunities for students to feel seen, valued, and connected.
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