WABENO – After months of anticipation, students in Mrs. Jacki Seeber’s third-grade class at Wabeno Elementary School finally met their pen pals from New York City during a virtual exchange that marked the culmination of a yearlong letter-writing project.

The online meeting connected Mrs. Seeber’s Wisconsin class with Mrs. Jamie Littlefield’s third graders in New York City for the first time since the students began exchanging letters in September. Throughout the school year, the classes sent “snail mail” every other month, giving students an opportunity to build friendships and practice meaningful communication beyond digital screens.

Through their letters, Wabeno students learned about daily life and school in New York City, including the surprising size of their pen pals’ school. Students discovered that the New York school serves more than 800 children across four levels and remains in session through the end of June.

Educators said the exchange gave students more than just a lesson in writing. It helped them form genuine connections across state lines, and as the Google Meet came to a close, students shared smiles, excitement and hopes of someday meeting in person.

School leaders expressed appreciation for Mrs. Jacki Seeber, Mrs. Jamie Littlefield and their students for making the project a success, calling it a powerful reminder that friendship can grow across any distance.

Photo Credit: Wabeno Area School District

Published on: Jun 9, 2026 at 2:19 pm