Palatine treated children like VIPs
I would publicly like to thank everyone at the Palatine Public Works Department. Palatine Police Department, city hall, Joe Petykowsk (our tour guide) and Reid Ottesen for the best field trip I have taken my in 25 years of teaching in District 15!
Our state goal centers on learning about the political systems of our community. With 5- and 6-year-olds, we call this "meeting the helpers" in our town. Everyone involved made sure that the kindergartners at Virginia Lake School had an enjoyable learning experience. They made sure that the information they gave our kids was easily understood and very hands on.
As my partner, Mrs. Brand and her students, as well as mine, walked around the Public Works building, we were greeted by friendly faces and hellos. Joe and his staff were patient with our questions and responses, even if they made more sense to the kids than the adults! We learned how street signs are made and gave our own versions to what we thought they meant! (A personal joke between the Public Works Department and the chaperones of our trip!)
The kids were amazed as John Schmidt rose up in the aerial truck to take their picture. They learned how those trucks not only fix tall problems, but decorate our city! Then we went to meet Herman Steiger in the Parts Department and Mike Hujar who showed us the parts and mechanics of the vehicles used to protect and clean up Palatine. One student commented, "Wow, I want to work here when I am big enough." When we left, Public Works gave each child a gift bag and ruler. The kids were most grateful.
Our next stop was at city hall where we were met by Sam Trakas, the assistant city manager. He explained where we would be going. We were met by officer Kellie Poliquin and escorted into the station. Poliquin explained all about officers. She showed the kids the retired badges and gave each the opportunity to walk into the jail cells. At the end of the tour, each child was given a safety Trick or Treat bag with a badge and other goodies.
The chatter on each bus trip back to school was about everything the kids experienced. We wrote thank you notes to each place. I leave you with this quote: "Wow, I sure learned a bunch of stuff from those people." And after visiting the police station: "Those people are sure brave."
Thank you again for recognizing a grateful seasoned kindergarten teacher and her companions by posting this letter in your column. The kindergartners at Virginia Lake School will never forget the kindness, thoughtfulness and learning they all experienced that October day. And neither will their teachers! This is going to be a yearly field trip for us all!
Mrs. Patty Clark
Kindergarten Teacher
Virginia Lake School
Palatine