Union Academy’s Let Grow Program Encourages Independent Character Development

Elementary students have been participating in the Let Grow program, a non-profit movement that fosters childhood independence and resilience by giving kids more freedom and responsibility. Students choose a Let Grow Project, such as helping with chores without being asked, cleaning out closets for clothes donations, or collecting pet food for local shelters.

The program was integrated in 2024 by elementary school counselors Margaret Ham, Kim Beare, and Kelly Brun. 

“When kids do something new on their own, big things happen,” Beare says. “Kids and Parents get a burst of confidence. Worry gets replaced by pride and joy.

Students choose to participate in the project and upload photos of their task, which are shared at Intermediate School character assemblies for their peers to see and celebrate.

Even as a voluntary initiative, the program saw more than 2,400 Let Grow project submissions last year.

“When it’s new, it’s hard,” Bear says. “But we see kids persevere and be resilient…it helps them learn how to deal with struggle.” 

The Let Grow program is tied to the school’s monthly character focus, showing that UA’s core values extend beyond the school and into students’ homes. Let Grow projects are recognized with “celebration leaves” each month. The leaves are added to a tree in the hallway to represent their growth visually - and many students are going above and beyond. 

5th Grader Mackenzie Austin created flyers and posted them throughout her neighborhood, asking for donations for the winter canned food drive. She collected over 180 cans and helped push her class to meet its donation goal.

“It brings people together and shows how many people care about what you are doing and are willing to help you,” she said. “You can help touch somebody’s heart in a way they didn’t think was possible.”

At the assembly, Austin shared her December Let Grow project centered on responsibility, reflecting on how her efforts brought the community together.

Another student chose to speak at a Union County Board of Commissioners meeting. Third grader Helena Ryan presented her own speech, calling for more attention to local animal shelters and the safety of all animals. 

“Today is my challenge [for Let Grow],” she said to the board. “It’s scary, but I’m here because the animals need me.”

Even as a voluntary initiative, the program saw more than 2,400 project submissions last year.

The Let Grow program continues to empower students to take ownership of their actions, build confidence, and make a meaningful impact beyond the school walls, one small act of responsibility at a time.