Elkridge Elementary School

Welcome to our 2007-08 Growing Hands Program
Our Second Year

The Growing Hands Program's purposes are to enhance children's understanding and appreciation of physical differences among their peers.

It is called "Growing Hands" because students' empathy for others is "growing" and we perform plays with "hand" puppets.

This program provides students with opportunities to improve communication, problem-solving, and leadership skills, while building self-confidence.   Fifth grade students, with guidance from staff and volunteers, write and perform puppet shows about physical differences.   The puppet shows are performed for K, 1st, and 2nd grade classes.  Students' understanding and appreciation of physical differences are increased as they play the role of the puppets.

Mrs. Eunice Laster, parent volunteer, originated the program.  Mrs. Laster leads the program, with support from Mr. Dave Appleby, Guidance Counselor.   Mrs. Suzann Flagg, parent volunteer, assists with the program.

A beautiful quilt composed of squares designed by each fifth grade student in the Growing Hands program last year was made and is on display in our center stairway.  Each square in the quilt represents the uniqueness of each student. 

If you have any comments or questions, please call the school at 410-313-5006 and ask for Dave Appleby, School Guidance Counselor, or Mrs. Eunice Laster, Parent Volunteer.