Middle School Sixth Graders Paint Pumpkins to Promote Breast Cancer Awareness
In a heartfelt display of empathy, sixth graders at Bronxville Middle School gathered on their school’s front lawn on Oct. 28, each carefully placing a hand-painted pink mini pumpkin along ribbon-shaped twine. The powerful formation symbolized their collective commitment to spreading awareness about breast cancer.
The sixth-grade Advisory project, organized by teacher Julia Brogan, aimed to inspire students to become engaged citizens and compassionate members of their school community and the world around them. The sixth graders eagerly participated in the project, with some students choosing to honor loved ones affected by breast cancer by writing names on their pumpkins.
“It made it even more meaningful for the class,” Brogan said. “There were numerous pumpkins with the names of grandmas, family members and friends written with loving hands.”
As the pumpkins took the shape of a pink ribbon, which is the national symbol of breast cancer awareness, the students’ impact became clear. Brogan hoped the visual reminder would teach students that even the smallest gestures can have an immense impact.
“By each student painting one mini pumpkin and displaying it, it can bring support and hope to community members who may be or have been affected by breast cancer,” she said. “We empathized that the pink ribbon is a symbol of hope, and that is a pretty powerful symbol to be able to create and share with others. It’s about building a sense of community and looking out for and supporting one another.”
The activity was generously funded by the Bronxville Middle School Council.