Woburn’s Goodyear Elementary School Celebrates Student Advocacy through Lion Pride Postal Service, End-of-Year Talent Show

WOBURN — What began as a simple idea to foster connection, creativity and communication has transformed into a full-blown celebration of student voice and leadership at Goodyear Elementary School.

This past month, Principal Meghan Patrissi, Assistant Principal Amanda Williams, Mr. Norden and a group of student “mail carriers” presented the Lion’s Pride Postal Service to the Woburn School Committee. 

The Lion’s Pride Postal Service encourages students and staff to exchange handwritten notes of kindness, gratitude and encouragement. Each classroom has its own mailbox and address, complete with colorful, creative decorations that reflect the vibrant spirit of Goodyear.

General mailboxes, many of which were repurposed by Norden and a team of students, were thoughtfully placed around the school, at just the right height for every student to reach. 

Norden’s craftsmanship and attention to student collaboration made this initiative not only functional but meaningful. From designing mailbox stations to installing them with accessibility in mind, the effort reflected Goodyear’s commitment to inclusion and teamwork.

During the presentation, student mail carriers shared heartfelt reflections on their experiences: the friendships formed, the pride in their responsibilities and the joy of delivering smiles each day. These messages, often filled with creativity and humor, also became a powerful way for students to share ideas and advocate for change.

One such letter sparked a special initiative. When fourth-grader Addy Wetzel wrote to Principal Patrissi to request a school talent show, she didn’t simply receive a letter back, but was invited to a meeting with the support of Paraprofessional Albert. 

Wetzel then developed a full marketing campaign, rallying support for a talent show across the school. Her efforts led to 30 students signing up for auditions, which were held in front of a panel of judges, including ML Teacher Ms. Murphy, Grade 2 Teachers Ms. Auferio and Ms. White, Assistant Principal Williams, Paraprofessional Albert, Ms. DeRosa, Wetzel herself, and School Committee Member Jessie Wetzel. 

The final result was an end-of-year talent show that featured 13 acts. 

“The talent show was nothing short of spectacular. Students who had practiced for weeks took the stage with confidence and enthusiasm. From singers to dancers, musicians to comedians, the talent and courage on display left the audience inspired,” said Principal Patrissi.

A huge thank you goes out to the dynamic MC team — Ms. Cara, Ms. Murphy, Ms. Jackie White, Ms. Auferio, and Mr. Rick — who kept the show running smoothly and the energy high. Assistant Principal Williams, who served as the DJ, had the crowd on their feet, while Norden, the surprise mystery dancer, brought the house down with his unforgettable moves.

Parents and family members of the performers joined in the celebration, making the event a memorable close to the school year.

The Lion’s Pride Postal Service and the Talent Show have worked to help students build essential life skills, including communication, teamwork, creativity, leadership and problem-solving, as well as how to believe in themselves and each other.

“At Goodyear Elementary, advocacy isn’t just encouraged — it’s celebrated. Students are learning that their voices matter, that their ideas can take flight, and that through collaboration, anything is possible,” said Principal Patrissi. “Goodyear Elementary is more than a school — it’s a family. And this year, that family mailed, danced and cheered its way into something truly special.”