VIEW GALLERY: Bentley Fifth Graders Bring Cheer to Salem Council on Aging Valentine’s Day Brunch

Centering belonging.

On Wednesday, Bentley Academy Innovation School Assistant Principal Yamilis Cruz brought eight fifth graders to the Salem Council on Aging’s Valentine’s Day Brunch at the Jean A. Levesque Community Life Center. Last month, Bentley students (kindergarten-fifth grade) made Valentine’s Day cards during their ‘Flocks’ activity, and delivered Valentine’s Day cards to Salem seniors and veterans Wednesday — in English, Spanish and Portuguese.

“It’s a small group tradition we do as part of our Town Hall on early release days,” said Ms. Cruz. “It was such a special experience, and the students really enjoyed connecting with the seniors!”

City Councillor Alice Merkl and Salem Council on Aging Activities Coordinator Rosanna Donahue joined Ms. Cruz and her students.