My wife and I were in Pennsylvania last week and we had the opportunity to visit our “Trucker Buddy” second grade class. The Manheim Christian Day School is located in Manheim, PA.
The students and teacher (Mrs. Tann) welcomed us with open arms. As we entered the class we were greeted with many smiles and cheers. Throughout this school year, we have corresponded back and forth with letters, cards, postcards, and gifts. In February, we provided a pizza lunch for the class during the week of Valentine’s Day.
Our visit to the class began with introductions of each student telling us something that they enjoy doing when not in school. Also, they each shared their favorite food. We were seated on a large United States rug which Mrs. Tann had purchased for the classroom last year. We enjoyed a question and answer time as I showed them my routes of transport. They took turns showing me the states in which I would travel to get from and to various locations.
It was then time to take a walk outside to show them the truck and trailer. They were very excited to learn all about the features of my equipment. We pointed out the microwave, double bunks, television and GPS. Each student enjoyed sitting in the driver’s seat and pulling the air horn. The girls thought the truck would make a neat playhouse and the boys were intrigued by all the gadgets on the dashboard. The students were curious about what was inside the trailer. We walked back and I opened up the trailer for them to see how large the space was inside. They were surprised how big it really is inside a trailer. The teacher talked about the length of measurement in regards to width and height. She also explained to the students that everything they use on a daily basis comes from the transport of a truck.
When we arrived back in the classroom, we were invited to stay for a pizza lunch. During our lunch time, each student stood to tell us about their animal reports which they had just completed. Each student selected a different animal and had to write a report and draw pictures. We had the pleasure of listening to each of them speak and give facts from their reports. We then surprised the kids with a goody bag of items they can use in the classroom or take home for personal use. The students presented me with an American Flag that they made which they had written “WELCOME TRUCKER BUDDY” in large letters on the flag. Also, they made a blue truck/trailer which had loads of healthy snacks for me to take along on the road.
Our visit was a special day to remember. I always enjoy being able to meet face to face with my students. They are always eager to learn about my career and how products are manufactured and shipped across our country.
I wish to thank Mrs. Tann and her second grade class for their hospitality during our visit.
If you wish to participate as a trucker buddy or learn more about Trucker Buddy International, please visit www.truckerbuddy.org