Academy students show their class by being there every day of the year

Observer Staff

1/25/2005 12:00:00 AM

Saginaw Chippewa Academy Binoojiinh Montessori students Gabrielle Kennedy, Elissa Schlegel and Jarek Chamberlain really, really like school.

They enjoy going the classroom so much that they didn't miss one of the 180 days of school this year.

Simply perfect in attendance.

Eight-year-old Gabrielle-a third grader in Traci Lake's class-is the daughter of Walt Kennedy and Lisa Kennedy.

Lake said Gabrielle is a very friendly student with excellent behavior.

"She is a very motivated student who is always willing to work with others," added Lake.

Gabrielle is so motivated as a student, this is her second consecutive year of perfect attendance. She said she likes art and crafts, including beading.

"I really liked going to Michigan Adventure for one of my awards this year," said Gabrielle. Her stellar attendance also netted her cash incentive awards for several months.

Four-year-old Elissa and seven-year-old Jarek-both pre-primary students-each possess "a wonderful work ethic" according to one of their teachers, Chad Avery. They are also taught by Linda Frisbey. Avery said Elissa and Jarek's parents drop them off and pick them up each day from school.

"Elissa and Jarek are both hard workers," said Avery. "They are truly fabulous students. You can tell the time and effort put into them on behalf of their parents."

Elissa also said she likes arts and crafts and wants to be in the classroom when she grows up-on the other side of the desk.

"I want to be a teacher," she said.

Jarek said he wants to be a train conductor when he is older. He also said he likes working with Play-Doh.

Both Elissa and Jarek were given $15 gift certificates to Book Mark.

SCA Early Childhood Coordinator Leanne Barton said the students' attendance records are a reflection of their parents and also a willingness to learn.

"These kids really like being at school," she said. "Education begins in the home."