by Sam Terry

Educators at North Jackson Elementary School have partnered with NHC nursing home in Glasgow to prove once again, that learning never ends and that interaction between generations of people is beneficial to all.

The collaborative effort is known as an Intergenerational Classroom in which preschool students learn and grow by visiting residents of the healthcare facility, its geographic neighbor in Glasgow.

Principal Anthony Frazier said the effort is a first for North Jackson and offers a number of positives for both the students and the elders they spend time with.

For many students, the encounters create interaction with people two, three, or even four generations older. For youngsters unaccustomed to being around older adults, it’s an exercise in reducing fear and in receiving unconditional love and attention.

Running from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. once a month, the divergent groups enjoy a variety of activities. Some older adults relish in the opportunity to read a book with the preschoolers.

Opportunities for play abound and in the process, knowledge is passed along a two-way avenue of communication. Additionally, students observe and learn about the natural aging process and accepting

people who may have disabilities.

NHC administrator Denise Billingsley reported that the residents of the facility enjoyed the children and are eagerly awaiting the next visit.