Sixth Graders Launch New Service Learning Partnership with PG Chambers School

Peck’s sixth graders have officially launched a meaningful new service learning partnership with PG Chambers School, a Cedar Knolls–based school dedicated to supporting children with physical and developmental disabilities. After years without a designated service learning connection, the sixth-grade team felt strongly about rekindling this relationship—one that had existed at Peck years ago through Friday afternoon activities. 

Peck’s sixth graders are visiting PG Chambers by advisory, partnering directly with PG Chambers’ Student Council students, whose goal is to raise funds for a spring field trip for their school.
Last week, the first sixth-grade advisory visited PG Chambers for a hands-on day of connection and collaboration. Students split into two groups, each experiencing a unique aspect of life and learning at the school.

Service Learning and Tie-Dye? Helping Run the PG Chambers Shop

Half of the advisory worked in the school’s cheerful, student-run tie-dye shop, assisting as teachers stopped by to purchase shirts and tote bags. Peck students helped their PG Chambers friends greet customers (using communication pads when needed), count change, and select T-shirts, and they also handed out affirmation cards with each purchase. Whether guiding a student with limited mobility or supporting a peer using assistive technology, our sixth graders jumped in with confidence and kindness.

Learning Through Adaptive Technology: Cooking Pumpkin Trifles

The other half of the advisory joined a classroom baking lesson, where students prepared autumn-themed pumpkin trifles for the school’s staff. The highlight of the session was seeing the incredible robotic supports and adaptive equipment that enable PG Chambers students to participate fully in cooking tasks. From large, accessible buttons controlling mixers to devices that rotate cups for students with limited mobility, Peck sixth graders gained a new appreciation for the creativity and innovation that help make everyday activities accessible.

After twenty minutes at each station, the groups switched, ensuring every student experienced both activities before returning to campus in time for sports and musical rehearsal.

Learning Through Connection

While building empathy is a goal of service learning, Lead Sixth Grade Teacher and Service Learning Coordinator Sue Longenecker notes that the heart of the experience goes beyond that.
“We hope our students walk away seeing the beauty in everyone’s differences,” said Longenecker. “These are kids just like them, who may communicate or move differently. Through experiences like this, our students build understanding, perspective, and a deeper appreciation for the many ways people interact with the world.”

What’s Next for the Peck-PG Chambers Partnership

Throughout the year, each sixth-grade advisory will visit PG Chambers and support the Student Council’s fundraising initiatives—from tie-dye sales to seasonal bake projects. Earlier this fall, students connected with PG Chambers peers through a virtual meet-and-greet, learning firsthand how each student communicates—whether through speech, assistive devices, or adaptive technology.

The partnership will continue building momentum as the year goes on, with hopes of joining PG Chambers on their culminating spring field trip—schedule permitting. Peck families may also see PG Chambers represented in the Parents’ Association Day of Service later this month.

By engaging deeply and consistently with their new service partner, our sixth graders are living out Peck’s mission—increasing their empathy, broadening their understanding of individual differences, and experiencing firsthand the impact of service rooted in connection.