RHS

We got the opportunity to work with students from RHS with minor or severe handicaps, and I believe it was one of the most rewarding experiences I have encountered. The first thing I noticed upon arriving at the school was the beautiful garden in front of the classroom; it must be very calming to sit near the little fountain. Over the period of four days, we did arts and crafts, and played games with the students; I especially enjoyed the Cat and Mouse game with the hula-hoops.

The student who pops into my mind when I think about our trips to RHS is a wonderful girl named *Kelly. Kelly was the first student I met upon arriving at the school, and I had the pleasure of helping her paint her holiday picture frame. I learned that her favorite color was white, so she was extremely excited to learn that we were painting the frames white. Kelly is the student that I remember most vividly because she had one of the most beautiful smile that can light up a room the instant she walks in. She always showed her happiness when we would do one of her favorite activities (especially when she got two strikes in a row when we were bowling).

The one thing i found very surprising was how the "normal" students (I believe no one is normal) would walk past the class without even noticing they existed. I found it rather offensive, because these students are wonderful human beings and should be treated as such, not ignored as they have been for years.

After we left on the last day of our experience, I couldn't help but feel guilty because of the sad faces I received after the students learned that we would not be coming back the next day. I have honestly learned that beauty is on the inside, and these students are not quiet and "weird" (as some may put it) if you take the time to talk to them.