Eaton high school’s National Honor Society is a group of leaders that care about the community. They are required to do five community service events each semester. One of the most liked events is the annual recess with the children at EES, BES, and GES.
To some, attending recess may not seem as significant as helping at the Food Bank or raising money for individuals in need. It makes a bigger difference than anyone realizes as it connects the community and gives the children role models to look up to. Children are able to set goals and dreams for themselves based on what their role models have accomplished. This helps continue the strong culture Eaton schools have, as every student is striving to be the best.
The littles get to actually put a name and a face to those who they watch play their favorite sport or sing their favorite song. They are able to see that it is possible to not only thrive in extracurriculars but also be a good human and a hardworking student. The relationship built during the short 20 minute recess continues to build every semester when the high schoolers return. They are able to reunite with the kids they played with the time prior, and continue to make a stronger friendship.
The decision to continue this tradition is an easy one for NHS president, Dayne Riddle. “It is so important that we make an influence and a presence with the young kids in our community,” said Riddle. He feels that the simple action of attending recess each semester is what makes the culture and support of the town so strong.
The members of NHS love going to recess almost as much as the littles. It is a highlight in each of their days, as they get to hangout with the energetic little kids. Many students don’t get to spend time with younger children often, so recess is a time for them to let loose and have fun. Evie Gavette, a member of NHS, loves getting to see her younger cousins and meet kids that supported her throughout her basketball, volleyball, and tennis careers. “It’s important to build relationships so they come to support us,” said Gavette. “It will help them look toward the future.”
The littles always look forward to the day they will get to spend recess with the high schoolers. Although they don’t know what day to expect them, it is always a happy surprise. Getting to play basketball, tag, and four square with a high schooler is enough to make their day awesome. It leaves them talking, and they are able to share the news with their parents at the end of the school day. This helps encourage parents to bring their children to high school events because they can see the great things EHS students, and specifically, NHS students, are doing for the community.
NHS’s annual visits to the elementary schools of the town contribute to why Eaton’s culture is so strong. The support at high school events is not by accident as the relationships built at recess are a huge part of the crowd. NHS will continue to do recess with the littles, as they know the great impact it has for the town.
