Cinderella Friday Brings Smiles to 3rd Grade

Every Friday morning, Bolden’s 3rd graders kick off the day with a heartwarming tradition known as Cinderella Friday. During Morning Meeting, each student places one shoe in the center of the room and hides the other behind their back. One by one, classmates take turns selecting a shoe and guessing who it belongs to. Once the mystery is solved, the chosen student is greeted warmly by the entire class.

This playful ritual is more than just fun—it’s a meaningful way to build community. “It makes me happy because I know I’ll get greeted by everyone,” said Elle K. Adelyn B. added, “It’s funny to see people try to guess whose shoe it is, and it makes us all laugh.”

For many students, Cinderella Friday feels like a team-building experience. “It makes us feel like a team because everyone gets a turn,” shared Maverick P. Carter P. agreed, saying, “I like it because no one gets left out.” And Gemma R. summed it up simply: “I love it because it makes Friday mornings special.”

While lighthearted, the tradition serves a deeper purpose—fostering connection, practicing social skills, and ensuring every child feels seen and included. With laughter, kindness, and a little mystery, Bolden’s 3rd graders are proving that a great day starts with a great welcome.