Orson Smilovic received a taste of what it may be like to be a teacher. The fifth grader served as a gym teacher for a day at Chancellor Livingston Elementary School after having his name drawn out of a raffle at the Rhinebeck Science Foundation’s Discovery Festival at Rhinebeck High School.
“It was fun,” he said. “I like gym class.”
Smilovic worked with kindergarteners and second graders as the students earned cups by answering questions to build a structure.
“Some kids did some unexpected things,” he said. “I like teaching students my age because it’s a challenge going against them.”
Kevin Yarnell, CLS physical education teacher, praised Orson.
“Orson did awesome,” said Yarnell. “He had some trivia, jokes and riddles. He had some extra ways to give out bonus cups in some extra challenges and races.”
Yarnell added, “Any time you can have an older student working with a younger student in a role model type role is huge for the older student’s confidence and leadership skills. They also are seeing what they can aspire to be one day.”
Maureen Terranova, president of the Rhinebeck Science Foundation, said the raffle raised $1,000 for the foundation that awards grants that benefit district students.
Smilovic was one of two raffle winners. Fourth grader Marlowe Lawrie will serve later this year as principal for a day with CLS Principal Brett King.
“This is something that was not only fun for the students, but maybe sparked a little bit of leadership skills and an understanding of what it’s like to be on the other side as a teacher,” said Terranova.
The Rhinebeck Science Foundation has hosted the Discovery Festival every other year since 2008. This year’s event drew over 450 students and families from the district and beyond, and had 22 presenters and over 100 student and adult volunteers.
“I think it was a huge hit,” said Terranova. “It’s really important for us to keep the event free. It’s targeted for children in preK through eighth grade to spark a love for the learning of science. Science includes not only core science, but engineering, building, arts and math.”