When most people think of pen pals, they picture handwritten letters sent across schools or 
cities. But at CFJ and GFJ Elementary Schools, our students are reimagining the pen pal experience—with music.
This year, fourth-grade classes launched a unique musical collaboration, thanks to funding from the UEEF Collaboration Grant (2024–2026). Each fourth-grade class at CFJ was paired with a corresponding class at GFJ to begin a year-long musical partnership. Instead of sharing words, these students shared rhythm, melody, and creativity. 
To support this initiative, a set of Orff instruments—a collection of xylophones, metallophones, and glockenspiels in various sizes was purchased. Students first connected with their individual pen pals, then worked as a class to learn a song together. Taking it one step further, they composed their own “B section”—a new musical phrase they created and practiced collaboratively.
The highlight of the project came when the partner classes met in person for the first time. At a 
special event, they performed their musical pieces for each other, created a collaborative mural, and played games to build friendships.
But this is only the beginning. The same students will continue the project next year as fifth graders, recording and sharing new songs across schools. The goal is for these students to form early connections so that when they come together at JFS, they’ll already know familiar faces.
Currently, GFJ has around 100 fourth graders, and CFJ has about 60–70. Next year’s new fourth-grade classes will join the program too. This means two full grades of students will be building relationships and collaborating between schools through music.
This innovative project is more than just a music program—it's about community-building, creativity, and making transitions smoother for our students. We’re proud of what’s already been accomplished and excited to see how the project grows in the years ahead.
