Fourth graders at Park Avenue Elementary School are up for any challenges that come their way, thanks to inspiration from Bryson the Brave Bison. Students in Lauren Manginelli’s class learned how bison run into the storm, instead of away from it, and are using that lesson for their own personal growth.
Ms. Manginelli read students the book, “Bryson the Brave Bison” by Nate Davenport and Luke Freshwater, about a bison who shows his herd how to face a storm and overcome a challenge through bravery and self-confidence. She even brought a stuffed bison into the classroom to help students connect to the character.
Children often face tasks that are hard, Ms. Manginelli said, and the goal is to inspire them to “run into the storm.” They recently completed worksheets identifying challenges they want to overcome and creating an action plan to do so. Some of their goals include getting better at writing or math, playing an instrument and building better relationships with classmates or siblings.
Throughout the year, students will write down the challenges they face and post it to an interactive bulletin board. By the end of the year, they will see all of the challenges they have conquered.
Click here to view the Fourth Grade Herd Takes on Challenges at Park Avenue slideshow.
Date Added: 9/25/2025