March was Happiness Month in Schaumburg School District 54, and the students of Mead Junior High School helped to spread their good cheer. Through the wonders of modern technology, the students led 10 residents of Friendship Village senior living community on virtual reality tours of destinations including Greece, outer space, Washington DC monuments and more. 

Happiness Month was developed by the School District to promote whole-child academic and social-emotional success by focusing on positive psychology, social connections and gratitude. As they were looking to extend happiness out to the community, the students decided to reach out to Friendship Village.

Mead Junior High students utilize virtual reality in their curriculum, and they were eager to invite the seniors to give it a try. The students read prepared scripts about the various destinations as the residents ‘visited’ each. The students presented their guests with parting gifts of flowerpots with wildflower seeds. 

“Our residents love anything having to do with new technology, and are quick to participate in intergenerational programming, so this was a great opportunity,” said Donna Brown, lifestyles activities manager for Friendship Village. “We have a long relationship with Schaumburg schools having done volunteer work, community outreach programs with them.”

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