Hollister
– Susan Bessette’s fourth grade class at R.O. Hardin Elementary
School celebrated the grand opening of their mock-city Funland
yesterday, an innovative learning experiment Bessette uses to teach
her students about basic economic and civics principles while
having fun.
Hollister – Susan Bessette’s fourth grade class at R.O. Hardin Elementary School celebrated the grand opening of their mock-city Funland yesterday, an innovative learning experiment Bessette uses to teach her students about basic economic and civics principles while having fun.
“The kids pick up these ideas so fast,” said Bessette. “They’re learning about supply and demand – Econ 101 – when they’re fourth graders, instead of waiting until they’re freshmen at San Diego State.”
“Funland” is based on a model designed by Bessette’s mother when she taught junior high students in Hawaii. Students fill out voter registration cards and select a Mayor and Sheriff, open their own “businesses” and “checking accounts,” and pay rent and taxes regularly. For adults this all might hit a little too close to home, but using play money and shouldering real responsibilities is an engaging way to introduce students to the real world, Bessette says.
“This prepares them for what’s out there, and I hope it gives them some newfound appreciation for what their parents do every day,” she said.
Mayor Robert Scattini was on hand Friday for Funland’s official ribbon-cutting, as parents and relatives were invited to tour the city. Funland Mayor Liselle Lopez personally greeted each guest and gave them 50 “dollars” to spend in the city’s snack shops, movie theatres and photo shops.
“I think this is really fantastic, and the teacher should be commended,” said Scattini. “And I think the mayor is doing a great job.”
Funland will be open once a week to allow younger classes a chance to visit the town. Funland citizens will also be raising funds to support Operation Homecoming, a nonprofit that sends care packages to Hollister-native soldiers stationed abroad, and to help fund their field trip to Sacramento at the end of the year.
“I really hope that the community will come and visit us,” said Bessette. “We want everybody’s family to have a chance to see what we’re doing, and it’s good for our ‘economy.'”
Danielle Smith covers education for the Free Lance. Reach her at 637-5566, ext. 336 or ds****@fr***********.com
