Tucked into a cozy corner of Alpine Elementary, a group of kindergarten and first grade students gather at the end of the school day, arms full of stuffed animals and blankets in tow. The room hums with excitement as students recognize something special is about to begin.
Led by third grade teacher Michelle Drangeid, the Stuffy Book Club invites the school’s youngest learners to slow down, get comfortable, and fall in love with stories. Students settle in beside their favorite stuffies, sharing snacks and anticipation as Drangeid opens a book. Each week introduces a new author or theme, expanding their world one page at a time.
On this particular day, the group dives into The Dot by Peter H. Reynolds – a story about courage and the power of creativity. Students bring the story to life through a fun watercolor activity. Starting with a single dot on their page, they quickly transform it into unique shapes and patterns.
For many of these students, this is their first opportunity to be part of a school club, a space designed just for them. “The club is light. It’s a chance for them to take a breath and play,” Drangeid shares, describing the intention behind each gathering.
Along with crafts and stories, the Stuffy Book Club quietly builds something deeper. It increases connections across grade levels, turning familiar faces in the hallway into friendly waves and conversations. As Drangeid explains, “I love including other grade levels because I get a chance to meet kids that I don’t normally get to see. When I’m walking around the building, they see me and say hi. There is a connection that builds community, which is one of the best parts about this.”
Long after the club ends, its effects continue to unfold. Students return home to read aloud to their stuffed animals, build blanket forts, and recreate the cozy magic of reading. In these small, meaningful moments, a lifelong love of reading begins to take root for Alpine Elementary students.