Superintendent Brian Garverick and guidance counselor Linda Zakrajsek join Sherman Elementary students in singing “If You’re Happy and You Know It.”
It isn’t every day that you see the superintendent of schools joining third-graders in a rousing rendition of “The Hokey Pokey.”
Superintendent Brian Garverick was on hand Tuesday morning as 35 members of Sherman Elementary School’s third-grade leadership team took a Valentine’s Day party to Richland County’s Dayspring Assisted Living and Care Facility.
The students prepared for their visit by making valentines and bags of candy for Dayspring residents. The children, wearing bright orange leadership team shirts, sang songs then joined residents at tables for games and refreshments.
“This is wonderful. We’re so glad you came,” one resident called out as she applauded the end of a song.
Garverick had high praise for the third-graders.
“These students are wonderful representatives of Mansfield City Schools,” he said. “They are on the leadership team because they are responsible and caring. Just look around this room: There is no generation gap here today.”
Amy Clark, activities director at Dayspring, said Sherman’s visits are eagerly anticipated by residents.
“They really look forward to the kids coming,” she said. “They enjoy it so much.”
The third-graders were accompanied by teachers Kevin Stone and Annette Gandert and guidance counselor Linda Zakrajsek.
Doc Stumbo, who works in public relations for Graham Auto Mall, was on hand again to provide potato chips and soft drinks. Graham has been involved in Sherman’s visits for nine years.
The Valentine’s Day party was the students’ second visit of the school year. In December they joined Dayspring residents for a holiday party. They will return for another celebration before Easter and for their annual cookout in late May.