Mrs. Jackie Nickel’s kindergarten class at Southwood School has spent the month learning about what it means to be a community helper—with some very special guests visiting the classroom to bring the lessons to life. “We like to talk about community helpers because it gives students awareness of the people in the community who help us do the things we need to do,” said Nickel.
Throughout the month, the class welcomed guests including a firefighter, a spray plane pilot, and a dental hygienist—all of whom shared how their jobs contribute to the well-being of the community. Even Golden West’s own Ty Hildebrand joined the fun, giving a live presentation and showing the class how he conducts interviews as a broadcaster.
Sparking Curiosity—and Big Dreams
Nickel says it’s not just about learning what jobs exist—it's about helping kids imagine their own place in the community one day. “We want the kids to see what adults do in the community, and maybe inspire them to do that as they grow up—or even now, as kids, to think about how they can help too,” she said.
The guest visits were met with excitement and curiosity, as students asked questions, listened intently, and even gravitated to different professions depending on their interests.
Learning by Seeing
Jackie Nickel says this initiative helps open her students’ eyes to the possibilities around them, while building their confidence to ask questions and learn from the world outside the classroom. “It’s important for them to see the different roles people play in our community—and to practice asking questions. That’s a big skill for five-year-olds,” she said.
The Community Helpers month at Southwood School is a wonderful example of what happens when education connects to real life—and reminds us that even the smallest students are ready to dream big.