Eighth Graders Learn How to Work Together to Overcome Disabilities

Eighth grade students in Mrs. Peters' Language Arts classes prepared to read the novel, Flowers for Algernon, by participating in two projects.  First, they heard a presentation by guest speaker Carolyn Vidt, an advocate for Speaking for Ourselves, a group that works for those with mental handicaps.  Then, the students working in small groups, with each student "handicapped" (either having their eyes covered, their ears covered, their mouth taped or their hands taped) and all working together to build a house out of art materials.  It was a great lesson to teach respect and tolerance of those who have disabilities as well as encourage teamwork.