The End of Session 1 Potluck
On Thursday, October 24th, we had a potluck in celebration of our communities at FAST South and West sites. Adult learners finished their first session while on the road to achieving their GED. Staff decorated to create a welcoming space for adult learners and their families with the nostalgic sounds of 90’s hip hop and R&B in the background. At FAST South, the staff created a new game called: “Question Bong.” The game was based upon a review of material from the entire session. Adult learners were able to showcase their knowledge of the content with a friendly competitive spirit. The reward was intrinsically motivating but the winning team also received first dibs on the food! An added bonus for all was each learner received a personalized superlative and certificate of excellence. For example, one student received the "I think I can” award for their unwavering motivation to grasp content.
At FAST West, the staff and adult learners were ready for the games! Staff brought in a game called: “What Do You Meme?” The objective of the game is to match a caption card with the meme selected by each judge. The person with the most memes collected is crowned the winner. The reigning champion of the “What Do You Meme” game was new instructor, Shawndra Allen. After the game, some impromptu freestyles were spit and dance moves unleashed. At both sites, we had a wide variety of food from students, staff and even some alums of the programs stopped by. The delectable menu included barbecue ribs, spaghetti, cornbread, pizza, jerk potatoes, turkey chilli, jollof rice, fried tilapia, chicken lasagna, cake, banana pudding, mac and cheese, dinner rolls, hummus, brownies, fried chicken, baked chicken, and the list goes on. At both sites, students were full of enthusiasm and laughter. They suggested creating a tradition of celebrating at the end of the session and were excited to incorporate different themes each time. Staff were extremely receptive to the feedback. From the staff from at the South site to the West site, we want to thank our students for committing to themselves. The sacrifices they make and their determination does not go unnoticed. We are truly honored to be a part of their journey and are equally impacted and forever changed by their presence in ours.
Peace and love, FAST South & West Staff
Submitted by Sashay Butler