National 4th Graders Day – January 1, 2027

History of National 4th Graders Day

National 4th Graders Day was originally the suggestion of two teachers from New Jersey, U.S. Jillian Hagberg and Donna Hennessy are both fourth-grade teachers at the Community Charter School of Paterson who begin each day by having a discussion with their students about the national holiday being observed that day. The fourth graders love learning about the various holidays on the calendar, but noticed that one holiday was missing, National Fourth Graders Day. 

Fourth grade is a huge transitional stage for kids. Elementary schools started getting promoted in the Massachusetts Bay Colony in 1647. Since then, students have been stepping their way up the educational and social ladder. In fourth grade, academic expectations take a big leap, friendships become more genuine, and personalities start taking shape. There is also more emphasis on writing in fourth grade. Along with learning different writing styles, kids have to write longer assignments and learn to be more organized. 

An important aspect of fourth grade is to introduce kids to the larger society — how to behave in social situations, honing their communication skills while interacting with others, creating lasting friendships, and respecting those in authority, starting with their teachers. Building close relationships with their classmates and with their class teacher becomes more apparent, as children become more aware of their surroundings. This supportive and harmonious social environment encourages character development and personality growth in children to form what is essentially the extension of a happy family.

The Class of 2021

This has been a school year like no other and we want to pay a special tribute to the fourth graders who have persevered through the pandemic and still created some amazing work. This photo, provided by the Community Charter School of Paterson, showcases what life has been like for the class of 2021.