Denver, May 16, 2008 – Rope climbing. Running. Teacher tag. Cheering. This year Ellis Elementary School students pulled out their fastest sprints and longest jumps. In addition to being energized by kid power they also were fueled by pride. Ellis was one of three schools in the nation awarded a grant to "green" the school from Earth Day Network . This year's field day was dedicated to EDN and FrontRange Earth Force, two organizations that helped make the grant possible.
"My daughter was on the team that helped start the recycling program," said Jennifer Wickham, parent of fifth grader Faith Erickson. "Today she's focused on running faster than the boys." The entire student population, along with parents and volunteers, came out in yellow field day T-shirts.
Teacher Sandy Stokely, who recently was honored with Denver's Distinguished Teacher of the Year Award, was as enthusiastic as a first grader. "It's a great day. These kids applaud each other. They show great sportsmanship."
Ellis Elementary is one of Denver's most diverse schools with a student population representing more than 30 countries and nearly as many different languages. FrontRange Earth Force staff member Liz Henry, who works with the school, was on hand to help with the tennis ball toss. "This school has tremendous spirit," said Liz.