At Potter Junior High School, we are excited to foster a strong sense of community and engagement by welcoming families onto campus for a special lunchtime tradition: Lunch on the Lawn. This initiative provides students with a unique opportunity to share a meal with their families while enjoying the beauty of our school grounds.
A couple of times throughout the school year, students are invited to bring their parents, guardians, and family members to join them for lunch on the spacious lawn in the school. This event encourages meaningful interaction between families and school staff, helping to build stronger connections and a shared sense of responsibility for student success. Families can sit together, enjoy their lunches, and take in the peaceful, outdoor setting — creating a fun, relaxed atmosphere where everyone can unwind.
One of the most valuable aspects of Lunch on the Lawn is the opportunity it provides for parent-school collaboration. Parents and caregivers often have busy schedules, and it can be difficult to attend events during the school day. This event allows parents to connect with their child’s school in a low-pressure setting, strengthening communication between the school and home. Families can chat with teachers, administrators, and other staff members while also getting a chance to see their child’s school environment firsthand.
For students, Lunch on the Lawn is more than just a break from the usual routine; it’s a chance to show their families the spaces and places where they learn and grow. It’s an opportunity to highlight the friendships they’ve made, the teachers who support them, and the overall environment of Potter Junior High. The event promotes a sense of pride in their school and encourages students to take ownership of their education.
By inviting families to join their child for lunch, we create a welcoming atmosphere that shows parents are valued partners in the educational process. The school community becomes stronger when parents and families are actively involved, and Lunch on the Lawn is one of the many ways we can make that happen.
Whether it’s meeting new faces, catching up with old friends, or simply enjoying a meal together, Lunch on the Lawn is a wonderful tradition that helps build the foundation for ongoing parent engagement and academic success. This initiative perfectly exemplifies how schools can build stronger connections with families in an informal, inclusive setting — all while supporting student success and engagement.