Proving education can be fun

David Martini doesn't mind look ling a bit silly to prove that education can be fun Martini wore black cut-out pants, white knee-high socks and a black hat with a cross bones logo Friday during a pirate-themed Renaissance Assembly at Brookhurst Junior High School. Other teachers dressed in similar pirate attire, sporting eye patches and bandanas around their heads. Some even taped stuffed parrots and other toys on their shoulders. The assembly, which recognizes students' academic achievements and attendance, was also honored with a Golden Bell award presented by the California School Boards Association. "It's pretty special," said Susan McCance, Brookhurst principal. "It speaks to the quality of the teaching staff and their involvement with the children." During the assembly, students who met GPA standards sat on the school gym floor, while the others sat in the bleachers. Out of 1,375 students at the school, 350 students were recognized. The students are awarded by different GPA requirements. The higher the GPA, the more awards they receive. "We get things like certificates, homeroom passes, erasers, notebooks," said Julie Vo,13, who has had a 4.0 GPA during her years at Brookhurst. Vo, along with other students who received a similar GPA, also received T-shirts. But for many students, the gifts are not the highlight of the day. Amanda Mendoza, 13, who has been recognized for her GPA in the past, said "it's fun to watch teachers throw pies in their faces" as they had done in previous years. This time around, teachers raced along the school gym in "It's pretty special. It speaks to the quality of the teaching staff and their involvement with the children." SUSA N MCCANC E BROOKHURS T PRINCIPA L Razor scooters, while students rooted them on. Students > in beginning drama participated in skits and band members played music for their peers. The overall goal of the Renaissance Assembly is to increase academic achievement, said Linda Robinson, who coordinated the event. Since the program's inception seven years ago, student participation has grown 27 percent and students' overall GPAs have improved by 31 percent. "You know how it works. You get good grades, you get prizes," Robinson told students at the assembly. For teachers, like Martini, who were actually participated in the event, the event is a great way to get students involved. "It's fun for the kids and it's fun for us," Martini said. Lexington Junior High School received the same honor, for their creative way of holding an open house to increase attendance. Students and teachers dress in costumes at their open house and take parents around to tour the camp support groups A Cardiac Support Group is available for individuals who have suffered from the effects of heart disease. The purpose of the group is to focus on answering questions and discussing specific concerns related to the disease process. Topics include role changes, improving communication, heart health, lifestyle changes, meal planning and stress management. The group is facilitated by a cardiac rehabilitation nurse. Screenings below are available the third Tuesday of every month from 4:30 to 6 pm, in the dining room of the hospital. No appointment is necessary. Blood Pressure, Free of Charge Body Fat Analysis of body composition, including percentage of fat, water and suggested ranges. Charge is $5. HVL CkoUiteroi Measures HDL and total cholesterol using a finger stick sample. Charge is $10. Orientation to Senior Friends Tuesday January 6,2004 West Anaheim Medical Center If activities, fun, fellowship, crafts, exercise, golf, bowling, travel, and of course, ways to stay healthy, are just some of your interests, then you will surely want to find out what Senior Friends is all about. Come to a continental breakfast and discover what you've been missing for only $15.00 per year. Call for more information or for reservations to find out more about Senior Friends. Guest speakers provide information related to the needs of the senior population and may include physicians or local community leaders. Entertainment is provided. At times, games, such as Bingo are played. Whatever the program, the topics are of interest, the entertainment is unique, and the time spent is always enjoyable. Refreshments are provided at all meetings. Special events are held throughout the year and often include full luncheons. YOU ARB INVITED Holiday Party Thurs., December 18,2003 Sequoia Conference Center 7530 Orangethorpe Buena Park Reservations Required Senior Friends get together at the Sequoia Conference Center each year to celebrate the Holiday Season. There is no fee for this special day and we would like to extend an invitation to anyone 50 years of age and older. Come and join in on the fun, refreshments, and entertainment.