WAYNESBORO, VA (Rocktown Now) – A classroom visit this spring has grown into an ongoing mentorship between James Madison University football players and students at William Perry Elementary School, providing students with positive role models and meaningful connections that extend beyond the school day.

In March, approximately ten JMU football players visited William Perry Elementary to support STEM activities in classrooms. As the players moved from room to room, several commented on how strongly they connected with the students, noting the importance of seeing themselves reflected in the children they were working with.

During the visit, one player, Tyler Brown, identified a fifth-grade student he felt could benefit from additional encouragement and guidance. Following the visit, Brown stayed connected with the student through weekly FaceTime conversations focused on goal setting, decision-making, and navigating challenges both in and out of school.

After the university’s spring training season ended, several players reached out to return to the school. During follow-up visits, players spent time with fourth and fight grade students playing football, talking, and engaging with students during recess.

Four players continued the relationship throughout the summer and formally committed to serving as mentors during this current school year. They now visit William Perry Elementary once or twice a month, spending time with selected third, fourth, and fifth grade students through activities such as playing sports, spending time in the game room, and eating lunch together.

“This relationship has been very beneficial for our students. Spending time with these football players makes higher education and athletics more attainable and real. The players also help students set achievable goals for the year. These mentors have modeled positive behavior, discipline, resilience, and teamwork; values that are reinforced both in school and in life. Our students have shown an increase in motivation, confidence, and engagement. I also believe this relationship has helped the football players develop leadership, communication, and empathy skills,” said Adrien Paulson, Reading Specialist at William Perry Elementary School.