Bradie Shrum fourth graders raise hundreds to help classmate

As the school year comes to a close, nine fourth-grade girls at Bradie Shrum Elementary are being recognized for an act of kindness after coming together to support a struggling classmate and help him feel confident heading into fifth grade.

According to teacher and STEM coach Emily Johnson, the students – Emily Huff, Paisley Sullivan, Keylee Robbins, Raelynn Thompson, Sophia Setser, Braecey Brown, Kaitlyn Ratliff, Ellie Thomas, and Karliah Moore – first began reaching out to the classmate by sitting with him at lunch, helping him build friendships, and encouraging him socially throughout the school year.

As the friendship grew, the girls decided they wanted to do something more to help him and his family. “They wanted him to have a fresh start next year in fifth grade,” Johnson said.

The students approached Johnson with the idea before working with the school counselor to organize a fundraiser. The girls sold baked goods and lemonade to staff members at the school, hoping to raise enough money to purchase clothes and other essentials for their classmate.

Within just a few days, the students raised more than $300, with additional donations from school staff helping support the effort.

Johnson said the girls were overwhelmed by the generosity shown by teachers and employees throughout the building.

After raising the money, the students traveled to Walmart with a carefully planned shopping list. Along with new clothes and shoes, they purchased items including household supplies, personal products, swim trunks, and a drawing pad. Johnson said the girls made an effort to choose things that reflected their classmate’s personality and interests while also stretching their budget as far as possible.

The students later surprised their classmate and his family with the items.

“It melted my heart when they came to me with this idea, but it especially got me when I witnessed them realize how much the school staff came together to help them achieve their goal,” Johnson said. “They were so excited when they heard their final amount raised. Seeing these young ladies want to do something for someone else was simply wonderful.”