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Friendsgiving serves countless experiential learning opportunities
Katie Stalter
Miriam students shopping for FriendsGiving


More than a holiday meal, the annual Friendsgiving project at Miriam High School serves up crucial, real-world life lessons. Whether following a recipe or budgeting for groceries, the skills students learn span nearly every facet of adult life.

The preparation began with the integrated math class studying recipes and making shopping lists. On Monday, November 17, the class took a trip to Schnucks, where they divided into groups to do their shopping. Each group had a list and was responsible for finding and paying for each item on their list. This trip pushed some students outside their comfort zone, but it’s a necessary skill to have as they approach adulthood. 

Miriam students shopping with a teacher

“This is one of my favorite days of the whole year,” said Donna Higgins, the Miriam High School teacher who leads this project. “We’re able to take what they’re learning in the classroom and see firsthand how applicable it is out in the real world.” 

Nyhlaia, a junior, also enjoyed the shopping trip. “When we all went to the store, everybody had their part. Friendsgiving gets you out of your comfort zone. I also like helping other students. It’s very inclusive.”

On Wednesday and Thursday, students took to the kitchen to prepare food for the Friendsgiving meal, working together to follow recipes and build measuring, chopping, mixing and cooking skills. Students from throughout the school participated in the cooking. 

Several Miriam students working together to cook for Friendsgiving

Nyhlaia said the students tried some new foods they may not have wanted to try in the past. “They judged it, but they got over it!” She particularly liked helping cook the food, because she often helps her grandma in the kitchen at home. Nyhlaia also enjoyed spending time with teachers in the kitchen and getting to know them better. 

Friday, November 21, was the big day. The entire school community came together to enjoy the meal they had all worked so hard on, complete with tablecloths, centerpieces and sparkling cider. 

Miriam student cooking with a teacher

The meal began with two students giving a toast, and then the entire school community ate together. The event came to a close with a performance by the school rhythm band. Even during the festive meal, the students were learning. They practiced conversation skills, public speaking, and respect and appreciation for their community.

“In addition to all of these other skills, Friendsgiving is about working on social skills,” Mrs. Higgins said. “They all have their strengths, and they all have things that they’re working on. It’s a good time to practice patience, tolerance and just helping each other out. Friendsgiving is a day of community, family and being together with all the people we care so much about.”

Nyhlaia agrees. “Ten out of 10 would recommend.”

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