May 9, 2001

Seniors make an impression on students

Humanities class explores preconceived notions about senior citizens

By LISA PERKINS
Herald staff writer
       What person or event has had the greatest influence on your life? That might be a tough question to answer, but it's just the kind of question students in the humanities classes at Traverse City Central High School were asking last week when they were visited by a group of senior citizens.
      As part of a unit called "Impressions," students are exploring their own pre-conceived notions about senior citizens and the events that have shaped their lives.
      "It would just be great to get different view points. Everyone has a different story, we just want to hear them all," said junior, Nick Jablonski.
      Relatives, family friends and members of the Retired and Senior Volunteer Program spoke with small groups on topics including, what life was like when they were a teen, regrets they might have about their life and what they consider their major accomplishments.
      "I learned a lot of things about what influenced her life," said Ryan Zaleski, about his discussion with Nancy Coleman. "Working in the mental hospital for 32 years, something like that would effect how you look at things."
      Coleman, who came at the request of her grandson Nate Dixon, explained that drugs and alcohol weren't even an issue when she was a teen. "Things are really different for teens today, we didn't have to worry about such things."
      "We really hope that the kids will see how their lives will be influenced by decisions they make and events that take place," said teacher, Peg Townsend who invited the seniors. "I think the kids may find out that senior citizens have something to offer them, they aren't the stereotypes that they expect."
      Student Christy Granquist saw how significant events can make a lasting impact when she spoke with retired school teacher, Dick Parks. "He explained that one of the biggest influences on his life was the after effects of the Vietnam war, he developed a real concern for the environment. It is a big part of his life today," she said.
      Retired teacher Ruth Ann Scott, who states her claim to fame is being Madonna's eighth-grade teacher, explained that her sixth- grade teacher had a great effect on her and is the reason she became a teacher.
      "She said her teachers influenced her and then she was able to help out her own students," said Jay Milliken, adding, "she loves to talk and she tells great stories."
      As far as regrets, none were expressed by the seniors, but one piece of advise was shared by Parks, "if I was going to do it over again, I would have more fun."