Teamwork Takes Center Stage at Mendel Elementary!
Guidance Counselors Lead “WE > I” Team-Building Events for Kinder–5th Grade Students
On Friday, October 3rd, Mendel Elementary was buzzing with excitement as students from Kindergarten through 5th grade came together to celebrate the power of teamwork during a special “WE > I” team-building event organized by the school’s dedicated guidance counselors.
From relay races to creative problem-solving games, each activity was thoughtfully designed to strengthen communication, cooperation, and leadership skills—all while having fun! The event highlighted how working together and supporting one another helps everyone achieve more than working alone.
Inspiring Connections and Lasting Lessons
“Our theme this year, WE > I, reminds students that when we work as a team, we all win,” shared the guidance counselor team. “These activities are about building trust, kindness, and collaboration—skills that will help our students both inside and outside the classroom.”
One of the counselors reflected on the day’s impact, saying:
“I truly enjoyed our ‘We is Greater Than I’ event. One of the most powerful moments was watching students engage with their peers in the same grade level—talking, collaborating, and genuinely connecting. Their excitement during the activities was contagious!
The heart of the day was about reminding students that they are stronger together. What they say and do not only impact themselves but also those around them. By making positive choices and supporting one another, school can become a place they look forward to—a space filled with belonging and joy.
I also appreciated seeing some of our teachers fully embrace the spirit of the day. It was meaningful to watch them let their guard down, sit with students, and see them from a different perspective. It reinforced the idea that we are all part of the same team, and that student voices are truly valued and belong.”
Supporting the Whole Child
The “WE > I” event reflects Mendel Elementary’s ongoing commitment to nurturing the whole child—supporting students’ academic, social, emotional, and behavioral growth. Through interactive activities, students developed empathy, self-awareness, and strong relationship skills that extend far beyond the classroom.
Building Resiliency Through Teamwork
Each team challenge provided opportunities for students to practice perseverance and flexibility—essential components of resiliency. By working together to solve problems and overcome obstacles, students learned to trust themselves and their peers, reinforcing that mistakes and challenges are stepping stones toward growth.
Aligned with DoDEA’s MTSS Framework
These team-building experiences align closely with DoDEA’s Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS), a framework that ensures every child’s needs are met through proactive, collaborative, and inclusive approaches. The guidance counselors’ focus on teamwork and connection supports the social-emotional and behavioral tiers of MTSS, creating a foundation where all students can thrive.
Throughout the day, laughter, cheers, and smiles filled the air as students built friendships and confidence through cooperation and encouragement. Teachers noted how naturally students demonstrated leadership, empathy, and respect for one another.
By the end of the event, Mendel students walked away not only with joy but also a stronger sense of unity—understanding that we truly is greater than I.
At Mendel Elementary, teamwork, resiliency, and care for the whole child aren’t just ideas—they’re the heart of everything we do.
