RPS principal, happy students played hooky
Roosevelt Public School students were allowed to play hooky on Feb. 5.

JEFF GRANIT staff Fifth-grader Jeremy Block beats on his chest and makes a gorilla sound during Schoolhouse Hooky Day at Roosevelt Public School on Feb. 5. For story, see page 33.

The school staff and even Principal Shari Payson played hooky that day too, because it was Schoolhouse Hooky Day, an annual event sponsored by the PTA that has taken place at the school for the past five years.

"It's a break from the regular curriculum for both children and teachers," Payson said. "They are learning to work together, to cooperate and to connect with the larger community."

During Schoolhouse Hooky Day, the PTAsponsors a variety of events at the school. The day aims to facilitate activities other than assemblies to break up the doldrums that may come as a result of children not being able to go outside during recess in the winter, according to Payson.

The latest Schoolhouse Hooky Day consisted of four multiage events. Roosevelt resident Brad Garton facilitated a techno-musical workshop. Roosevelt resident and teacherBarbaraAtwood held an art workshopwhere students created illustrations for a project called "Tunnel Book." A company called Hoops provided basketball instruction, and the school also screened amovie and gave out popcorn.

Roosevelt resident Brad Garton teaches Roosevelt Public School students what a sound wave looks like.

Payson said Schoolhouse Hooky Day is a fun day for all students in grades K-6.

"They get to spend the day with other students and classes, and they are provided with activities that are not provided in our curriculum but certainly supplement it," Payson said. "Children of all ages had a great time!"

Payson thanked Larisa Bondy, a parent and teacher who coordinated the event, Debbie Curry, a parent who served popcorn and water and helped set up for the event, and Eric Vuolle, who helped the children with their "Tunnel Book" project, for their support and participation.

- Jennifer Kohlhepp

PHOTOS BY JEFF GRANIT staff Sixth-grader David Merkin acts like a gorilla during Schoolhouse Hooky Day. Fourth-grader Ben Donnelly-Fine munches on some popcorn during a screening of "Wallace and Groomit" during Schoolhouse Hooky Day at Roosevelt Public School on Feb. 5.