Mr. Eastman challenged Ms. Nichols to a foot race across the parking lot one sunny afternoon at Norway Intermediate. Accepting the challenge, the students of 4N tried to help the principal run through a series of stretches before facing their teacher in an ultimate test of agility. With students and teachers cheering on both parties, the race began, lasted 13 seconds, and ended as Ms. Nichols stepped across the finish line first, victorious.
While this event has been the talk of the school for both teachers and staff, with quite a few “Congratulations” for Ms. Nichols and a few “I’m Sorry”s for Mr. Eastman, another positive effect came from this experience, especially for students. Both Mr. Eastman and Ms. Nichols modeled great sportsmanship after the race, even with showing such competitive natures before the race. Students in 4N discussed healthy competition and good sportsmanship in the class the following day.
The teachable moment learned: Being competitive helps you to improve and set bigger goals, and being able to be respectful of others is a quality that is essential in future success, as a student and as you grow into adults.