OSWEGO, NY – The student circus continues to be one of the highlights of the year for Frederick Leighton Elementary School sixth graders.
Recently, students once again received the opportunity to perform “under the big top” in Powers Gymnasium.
This year “Circus Kids Production Program” visited the Oswego school and once again the thrill of accomplishing a circus style act was achieved by each and every sixth grader.
Several years ago this type of project was introduced to the west side Oswego school and ever since then the sixth graders have had the opportunity to entertain their classmates, the rest of the student body, parents and staff.
The supportive Frederick Leighton Elementary Home and School Association once again coordinated the appearance of this unique and entertaining program.
The week ending performance, under the direction of ringmasters David Garrity and Larry Rundle, provided spotlight time for the Leighton sixth graders. The ringmasters run the students through their paces with juggling, building human towers, devil sticks and diabolos, stilt walking, balancing and other exciting experiences.
Physical education teacher Debbie Lavner noted, “The circus builds self-esteem, motivates students to try their best and persevere. There is something for everyone. The students learn a variety of new circus skills, but more importantly, they walk away with a sense of accomplishment.”
Continuing she said, “They feel great about what they have been able to achieve. The smiles at the end of the week tell it all.”
Throughout the week students learn important aspects of physical education. Balance, focus and agility are a few of the components that the students work focus upon.
This program goes hand-in-hand with the “Character Education” and “Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports” effort.
The Oswego City School District is focusing on positive behavior and building character. In order to be successful in the circus project the students have to cooperate, persevere, tolerate differences, respect each others skills and be responsible.
The performers were focused and determined to put on an entertaining and exciting show for students and family. After watching students perform it was obvious that concentration and focus, both needed in an educational and life-skills setting, were present and carried away by all involved.
The student body was extremely enthusiastic watching the performances of Leighton’s sixth graders. Everyone hopes that the tradition will continue and they will eventually perform before the Leighton “family.”
