Understanding what to be thankful for

Two weeks before the holiday, Lawrence Middle School held its Thanksgiving Dinner Dance on Nov. 14. From 5 to 8 p.m., all grades — fifth through eighth — ate dinner together. The fifth- and sixth-graders had their dance immediately after school and the seventh- and eighth-graders had theirs at night.

Washed out last year due to Hurricane Sandy, the event took on special meaning for the students who individually voiced what they are thankful for during dinner as the activity is tied into the school’s Social Emotional Learning curriculum that focuses on having respect for their peers and others, while building character.

Local vendors, school staff, the PTA and the district’s food service provider Whitsons all donated food. In turn, the students donated the leftovers to Cedarhurst-based Rock and Wrap It Up!, a group that collects unused food and distributes it to organizations that help those in need.