A minute on the playground: Mitchell Elementary students have fun cheering, learning to yo-yo, and shooting hoops with their principal

Recess is about more than just play—it’s a chance to learn, practice, encourage one another and, sometimes, discover a new skill.

For Mitchell Elementary 3rd and 4th graders, the Yo-Yo Zone is a favorite spot to practice the skills they’ve been building since the school’s NED assembly. NED stands for “Never give up, Encourage others, Do your best,” and students are putting that mindset into action as they learn the power of “yet” whether they’re mastering a yo-yo trick or tackling something new in the classroom.

Every Mitchell student received a yo-yo through the NED program, with new students receiving one this fall. The Yo-Yo Zone gives students a place to keep practicing, persevering, and encouraging each other along the way.

And nearby, some fifth grade girls have created their own recess tradition: a casual cheerleading group that comes together simply because they enjoy practicing cheers and having fun together. Meanwhile, Principal Samantha Cucu joins some kids on the basketball court to shoot some hoops.