Gilman’s third grade has hosted a monthly book club for more than a decade, partnering with faculty and staff to lead groups and collaborating with nearby girls’ schools. In January, 10 Upper School boys volunteered to guide Lower School students in a mystery-themed book club. The older students connected with the third graders through thoughtful discussions and a scavenger hunt featuring secret messages written in invisible ink and hidden throughout the building.

Austin Athanas '26 was impressed by the depth of the third graders’ insights. “They proposed theories I had never even thought about.” Fellow leader Nikhil Krishna '27 reflected, “One of the great things about being at an all-boys school is interacting with Lower School students. I remember being that age and looking up to older students. It’s great to be the kind of mentor I once admired.” Billy Smyth '26 echoed that sentiment, calling the experience “a super cool, full-circle moment.”

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