Ms. Z's Famous Spaghetti: A Fourth Grade Traditional Luncheon

Togetherness is not only valued but practiced daily. Gathering each year over a warm plate of homemade spaghetti, served with a smile by Ms. Z, is a yummy tradition that fourth grade looks forward to. What began as a simple idea has grown into one of the most anticipated and heartwarming traditions for fourth grade.

Now in her 11th year at Barnesville, Ms. Z reflects on how it all began. I've been racking my brain trying to remember exactly when I started," she shared with a laugh. "I wanted to do something different than the usual sweet." What started as a simple change of pace quickly became something much more meaningful.

Ms. Z who enjoys cooking and baking, prepared the meal herself and the response from students was enough to make this a long lasting tradition. The joy of sitting together, sharing a homemade meal, and stepping away from the normal cafeteria routine makes the experience feel special. "I enjoy doing something special for my class each year," says Ms. Z. "The kids really enjoy sitting together as a class – not sharing the cafeteria – just having fun. It makes them feel special." While the recipe may stay the same...no two years are ever identical. "Each year is special and different," she says. 

After the first spaghetti luncheon, the tradition stuck. Each year since, Ms. Z has continued the spaghetti celebration. For fourth graders, Ms. Z's spaghetti is more than a meal. It's laughter around a shared table. It's feeling seen and celebrated.

At Barnesville, traditions like this remind us that learning happens in many forms! In this case, over a plate of delicious spaghetti!