March 11, 2026
By BARTON HENLEY
Rutherford County Schools
For more than eight years, students in the Central Magnet Book Club have built meaningful connections with second graders at Bradley Academy through a pen pal partnership that emphasizes communication, mentorship and community.
Throughout the school year, Central Magnet students exchange letters with the Bradley Academy class, practicing written communication while building relationships with their younger peers. The partnership culminates with a special visit each year, when the Bradley Academy students travel to Central Magnet to meet their pen pals in person and participate in activities together.
The experience provides Central Magnet students an opportunity to serve as role models. At the same time, Bradley Academy students gain valuable practice in communication and the excitement of connecting with older students.