For the 20^th consecutive year, Johnson Elementary School doubled as presidential headquarters as U.S. presidents from throughout the ages marched down the halls and into the school cafeteria. There, they were introduced by Jane Stonko, today’s “Tea at the White House” emcee and one of the educators who started it all two decades ago.

 

It’s been a school tradition for the third grade classes to combine each February for the presidential unit, which after weeks of work and research culminates with the costumed procession.

 

It’s also educational for parents and grandparents who attend. Who knew that President Abe Lincoln’s long legs were used to measure the depth of water or that – even though he fought in the Civil War – President Ulysses S. Grant couldn’t stand the sight of blood. As each president and his first lady made their entrance, Stonko shared such interesting facts with the audience.

 

It was that very opportunity to share knowledge in a fun way that instigated the unit in 1996. A third grade teacher at the time, Stonko combined forces with the other third grade teachers, including Kay Burnett, to do the hands-on presidential unit. The educators also expanded on other topics – like the American Native unit – which the classes still observe. The basic presidential unit has grown through the years. Today it includes, among other projects, detailed essays, a "Mount Classmore" art display and paper mache heads of presidents, which are assigned by random drawing.

 

Teacher Kim Olivio said the latter project was very involved and tested the artistic skills of the students and the teachers. She was very pleased with the end result. The presidential likenesses are displayed in “The West Wing” of the school hallway.

 

Teacher Jeannie Zickafoose explained the process behind the essay project.

 

“The kids learn about their presidents before their presidency – as they were growing up and their education – as well as what they did after they were elected,” she said. “They are taught a beginning, a middle and an end, but they are also taught how to write an informational – or research – piece. These kids are little, but they learn a lot. They work together, using the Internet and the World Books to gather their information.”

 

Teacher Gina Cann has in recent years taken the helm of the event. Years like this one, during which there are so many snow days, presents challenges and makes it more difficult to work in special events. But today’s grand finale and the looks on the kids’ faces make it worthwhile. 

 

This is the first of two galleries, featuring the early years. More photos to come on Connect-Bridgeport. 

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Johnson Elementary Presidential Tea 2015