MONTICELLO, NY — Becoming a big brother for the first time can be an intimidating experience for anyone, but George L. Cooke Elementary School kindergartner Jaylen Agapito can rest assured that he has the love and support of his classmates and teachers.  

Cooke kindergarten teachers Michele O’Sullivan and Megan Hobby organized a “big brother shower” to help Jaylen celebrate this milestone. 

On the Wednesday before his sister’s scheduled arrival, the class enjoyed “hot cocoa for the big bro,” and excitedly presented Jaylen with a surprise keepsake—a book that the class had collectively written and illustrated. Each student wrote a page explaining why they believed Jaylen would make a great big brother. Some offered advice for his new role.

Clad in a “big bro”  hat and pin, Jaylen paged through the book as his classmates looked on.  

“We fully believe that part of social emotional learning is fostering positive home-school relationships and celebrating life’s moments, especially with kindergarten students,” Ms. O’Sullivan said. She would love to see the tradition carry on “as we celebrate both the big things and the little things for them.”

Shortly after the shower wrapped up, Baby Girl Agapito made her debut. Mama and baby are home and doing well, and Jaylen has eagerly settled into his new role as big brother.