Students at Summerfield Elementary School in Neptune learning about fire safety.
Little eyes widened with excitement as Pedro the Penguin waddled into Summerfield School, ready to teach Neptune’s youngest minds about fire safety. On a crisp October morning, kindergartners gathered for an unforgettable lesson that mixed crucial safety skills with plenty of giggles and smiles.
The special visit came courtesy of the Monmouth County Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., which joined forces with the American Red Cross to bring its innovative Prepare with Pedro program to life. Through the adventures of their feathered friend, approximately 50 young students discovered the essentials of home fire safety – from the importance of working smoke alarms to mapping out family escape routes.
“Watching these children light up while learning such vital information is truly heartwarming,” said Chanta L. Jackson, president of the Monmouth County Alumnae Chapter. “Partnerships such as this one with the American Red Cross allow us to make a real difference in our community, starting with our youngest learners.”
School principal Dr. Jerard Terrell didn’t just watch from the sidelines. He jumped right into the action, participating alongside his students in interactive activities that brought fire safety concepts to life. His enthusiasm set the perfect example for the kindergartners, who absorbed every moment of the 45-minute program.
Through storytelling and hands-on activities led by Red Cross member Dr. Marlena Brown and sorority members Wanda Smith, Phyllis Troy and Bertha Williams-Pullen, the children learned critical skills that could one day save lives. They practiced identifying safe meeting spots outside their homes, tested mock smoke alarms, and created their very own escape plans – all while having so much fun they barely realized they were learning.
The Prepare with Pedro program, designed specifically for grades K-2, proves that even the most serious topics can be taught in ways that capture young imaginations. As the morning wrapped up, it was clear that Pedro the Penguin had left his mark – not just on the students’ minds, but on their hearts as well.
This collaboration between Delta Sigma Theta Sorority and the American Red Cross demonstrates how local organizations can work together to weave safety education into the fabric of community life. After all, when it comes to protecting our youngest community members, it takes a village – or in this case, a penguin, some dedicated sorority sisters, and a school full of eager learners.
