Pam Dudding
Contributing writer
There is nothing more precious than watching six and seven-year-old kids doing stuff like walk down the school hall, dress in elderly persons clothing, bend over and walk slowly with a cane and talk in a deeper voice while depicting what they think is ‘old’ people, as they giggle all the way.
McCleary Elementary School celebrated its “100 days of school” last week in a fun and creative manner.
“Kindergarten always celebrates the 100th day of school,” Principal Gerri VanDyke said. “We have a School Improvement Committee which meets monthly and comes up with ideas to improve school morale for both students and staff. We decided as a committee that we needed to celebrate the 100th day of in-person instruction big this year.”
The committee decided it would be fun for students and staff to dress like they are 100-years-old, because “we are 100 days wiser.”
The front of the office windows had a huge 100 painted on it, artistically done by Art Teacher Ms. Mitten and the help of Mrs. Coulson’s fifth-grade class.
Teachers had special activities in their rooms throughout the day. For example, they played a song on the PA system at the beginning of the day and had a fun parade.
“This way all the students and staff were able to see everyone who participated,” VanDyke said. “The majority of the staff and students had fun participating in our 100th day of school celebration.”
Kids laughed, and teachers were considered “cool” for participating. Some children added that their teacher “looked that old anyway”, adding a big laugh with their hand over their mouth and mask (the name is being kept confidential).
To add to the special event, students were taught the gift of giving as well. When it was all said and done, approximately 100 cans of pet food were collected and donated to a local food pantry.
Additionally, Samantha Gilreath and Raeanne Young designed t-shirts for the staff which read, “I survived 100 masked days of school.”
VanDyke noted, “The students who went above and beyond received additional recognition and a small treat from the office.”
All of the students received smarties with a note that said, “100 days Smarter.” The staff received a note that stated, “Staff you are worth 100 Grand.” Attached to the note was a 100 Grand candy bar.
“The best outcome of the entire day was the normalcy it brought to the staff and students,” VanDyke shared. “It allowed us to celebrate together and enjoy learning.”