Fifth-graders prepare sumptuous feast

WHITE LAKE, NY — Fifth-grade students at Duggan School, with the help of teachers and the principal and the cooperation of all staff, played host to 166 guests at the fifth annual Thanksgiving Feast. Students designed and created invitations and menus, helped cook, planned a floor map and assigned seating, and arranged food displays.

When asked why she continues to commit to this feast every year, Principal Patti Sonnenschein remarked that it is good to show students that the continuation of traditions is not only family-based but community-based as well. Students need to realize the importance of bringing the school and family together to celebrate a sense of community, so that when they become parents, they will embrace every opportunity to become involved in their child’s school and the community at large, according to Sonenschein.

The community effort is becoming a tradition that all Duggan students look forward to. Chawn Neal, fourth grader, said “I came last year with my brother and can’t wait to bring my family next year when I am a fifth grader.”