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Second-graders learn about careers downtown
Nevada Daily Mail
"In our classrooms, we've been learning about careers," said second-grade teacher Tammy Holcomb "and today we're visiting the county courthouse and businesses around the square to learn about various occupations."
Just under 200 second-graders from nine classrooms at Benton elementary school began their Wednesday afternoon hearing presentations from various officials at the county courthouse.
Student behavior might best be described using the opening words of Ludwig Bemelmans' book, "Madeline." "In an old house in Paris that was covered with vines Lived twelve little girls in two straight lines." On Wednesday, in the east wing of the courthouse basement, well directed and self-controlled second-graders quickly formed and sat in six straight lines.
"Pull your bubble in," called teacher Sara Rainey. The bubble refers to one's personal space and tells students to cross their legs and pull in their arms so that students can get closer and no one is bothered by another.
Beginning at the University of Missouri Extension Office, students learned about 4-H from Amanda Davis and about other services from Mellissia Butler, whose own second-grader, Ryken, got a hug from mom. Students received a bag into which other officials placed candy, pencils and other items.
Students learned about the public administrator and assessor offices then filled both stairwells as they headed to the second floor.
"Hello and welcome! My name is Joe Hardin. I'm the presiding commissioner of Vernon County and up there on the right staircase is my daughter Alaina."
Hardin explained the work of the commission and introduced commissioners Neal Gerster and Everett Wolfe.
Not to be outdone, the next presenter began, "My name is Doug Shupe. I 'm the recorder of deeds meaning, I keep important records such as selling land, buying a house or getting married. But more important to me is a person up on that stairwell, my grandson, Rhett Forkner."
Following a brief description of the treasurer/collector's office, students headed upstairs to the courtroom. Standing in the doorway of the prosecutor's office, victim advocate, Peggy Schenker observed, "We've not had a group like this go through the courthouse in about nine years. I think this should be done every year."
A robed Judge James Bickel achieved instant quiet with the bang of his gavel declaring, "In this room, bad people are punished and good people are helped," said Bickel.
Bickel explained the role of the prosecutor, defense attorney, jury, court recorder and bailiff.
Classes then headed out to the four sides of the square, visiting various businesses.
One group stopped to hear from Dana Cavener at Cavener's Office Supply and Furniture, Beth Stewart of Belles and Beaus Children's Boutique and closed with First National Bank vice-president, Chris Dryer, leading a tour of the lobby, drive-thru and second floor offices.