ASB continues tradition with feasts

December 14, 2009

Htoo Htoo Lu

Laughter. Hugs. Enthusiasm. Team work. There was a sense of unity as ASB leaders bonded with special education students by decorating cookies together. Rather than baking cookies during the allotted time, the sweets were prepared beforehand to give students more time to decorate the treats. During the holiday celebration, they also made Christmas tree ornaments out of paper.

“We are trying to establish a relationship with these special education kids by recognizing them more,” activity director Helen Paris said. “It’s like Link Crew, except ASB is linking with special education kids.”

ASB held the Christmas feast Dec. 10 as a continuation of their efforts to reach out to special education students. Instead of wearing the usual Thursday business attire, ASB students wore red and green.
“It was wonderful. [ASB students and special education students] all got to know each other really well,” special education teacher Mary DeLeon said. “Now they would greet each other even outside of classroom.”

ASB also held the fourth annual Thanksgiving feast for special education students Nov. 19. This feast took place in the cafeteria during fourth period. Paris brought snacks, beverages and a turkey for the feast. She even cooked meals together in the classroom kitchen career counselor Michelene Whittmer and DeLeon.
“It was something I have never done before—talking and eating with the special education kids. I really enjoyed it. It was a great experience overall,” senior Jack Veronin said.

Since the feast, special education students have been dropping by the student center and helping around on occasion. For example, they helped clean the student center and around the campus.

“When the sprinklers near the amphitheater were broken, they watered the plants by hand so that the plants won’t die,” Paris said.

Special education students showed their appreciation for this feast by making placemats and thank you cards for the ASB leaders and teachers who helped make the event possible.

“I loved the feast. I loved them. I can’t wait to see them again,” senior Alex Haro said.

ASB began this tradition four years ago as a way to reach out to special education students.
Often times, special education students do not have the chance to participate in any clubs, sports and other extracurricular activities. Until four years ago, this feast has always been held in the student center. Over the past four years, the feast has expanded and moved into the cafeteria.

In the future, ASB plans to get an ASB-special education wing on the campus in which both the ASB leaders and special education students will work together to grow plants and flowers.