As you walk through the halls of Emery, you often hear the crinkling of Twix wrappers, the crunch of Kit Kats, or the snap of a
Hershey’s bar. In almost every administrative office, you will find a bowl of candies, with a variety ranging from Reese’s to Dum-Dums. What started as a simple act of kindness has grown into a school-wide tradition, one that has become an integral part of many students’ daily routines: fueling connections, brightening moods, and making the long, stressful day ahead more bearable.
Assistant Head of Upper School Dana Aboulafia started this tradition in 2017, when she sought to break down barriers between the administration and students. “One day, my friend got me a candy jar, and I just started filling it up,” she said. “Before I knew it, it exploded. Kids were coming in every day to have a quick chat and grab a treat before class.” Aboulafia believes this helped form many of her relationships with her students. “Everyone has a reason to come in. Maybe they need a pick-me-up, maybe they’re just saying hi.” Aboulafia welcomes all students to stop by, say hello, and grab a treat. “It has exceeded my expectations,” she exclaimed. “We’re growing as a school and sometimes can feel disconnected. Candy is just one of many ways to make lasting connections, and that’s what Emery is all about.”
Amber West, the upper school learning support specialist, felt the impact during her first year at Emery. “I didn’t know any students, and my office is tucked away,” she shared. West worried about not getting to know the students. “When I saw Ms. Aboulafia doing it, I noticed how frequently the students stopped by to say hello.” West began filling her own candy bowl, strengthening connections with many students. At first, she even asked students to share a fun fact about themselves. Over time, her office became another regular spot for students. “It creates an avenue to talk to people about how they’re feeling,” West said. “That way, I can help make a positive impact.”
Aboulafia’s candy jars also inspired guidance counselor Laura Larkin, “Sometimes I would grab some candy from her office for myself. I realized what a great excuse it gave students to stop by.” For Larkin, candy isn’t just about the mood boost; it’s about accessibility. Larkin shared that “sometimes younger students feel intimidated. Asking for candy can make them more comfortable.” It has also given her a way to put names to faces, “Since I don’t have students in class anymore, it’s much harder to get to know the kids. This has been a great way to build relationships.”
Aboulafia has noticed the positive effects on students’ moods firsthand: “They get a little candy and it’s like they won the lottery,” she said. “Such a simple thing can be so powerful. If someone is having a bad day, it can bring some light into their life.” What began as Ms. Aboulafia’s way to bring administration and the student body together has turned into an everyday ritual. Whether it’s a treat after lunch, a quick check-in, or a chance to brighten someone’s day, the candy bowls have become symbolic of something greater. They remind us that sometimes even the smallest gestures, like a piece of chocolate, can strengthen and unite a community.
