Fries Every Day???

French Fries Every Day? Bells Second-Graders Get Persuasive with Their Essays

 

For Immediate Release
February 13, 2026

WASHINGTON TOWNSHIP - Bells Elementary School second-grade students in Mrs. Walter’s and Miss Ruffino’s class proudly shared their persuasive essays written to the principal as part of the new CKLA-Amplify curriculum. After learning about opinion writing, point of view, and supporting reasons, the class took on a persuasive essay: convincing Bells Principal Dr. Shaun Giberson to serve French fries on the lunch menu every day.

The students worked hard to clearly state their opinions and back them up with strong reasons. They wrote about how delicious French fries are, how they make lunch more exciting, and how many students would be happier to see them on their trays each day. 

Dr. Giberson shared his enthusiasm for the new curriculum: “CKLA-Amplify is giving our students the tools to think critically, express their ideas clearly, and engage in meaningful conversations. Lessons like this show how writing, speaking, and listening all come together to build confident learners.”

To help students understand another point of view, Dr. Giberson, school nurse Michelle Westenberger, and head cook Sissy Malone joined the discussion. They explained why it is important for students to have balanced meals that include fruits, vegetables, proteins, and whole grains. They talked about how healthy foods help children grow, learn, and stay energized throughout the school day.

Even though French fries may not make it onto the menu every day, the students were excited to share their ideas and listen to others’ perspectives. Through this engaging CKLA-Amplify lesson, they learned that persuasive writing is not just about stating what you want, it's also about understanding different viewpoints.

And really … who doesn’t like French fries?

 

- WTPS -