Wisconsin School for the Deaf - The Wisconsin Times Vol. 135 No. 3 Spring 2014 | Page 13
Sharing Hobbies
In lieu of doing their Performance Improvement Plan, (PIP), the dorm staff created an activity sharing a hobby
or an activity they were previously taught. Each area was given a list of criteria to follow when creating their
activity. The criteria were the questions what, who, where, why, how, and when. Each staff explained their
hobby or activity including what they needed to make the activity a success. Their activities were submitted
prior for approval from their supervisor.
Eric Hameister, who works with elementary and middle school boys, had a project building wooden stools. He
taught the boys to use every piece of wood if possible. He cut all the wood at home, and brought it back for the
boys to complete their projects. The boys were responsible for applying the stain and varnish before assembling
the stool. Those who participated in this activity brought their stool home to give to someone as a gift.
Carlos Lopez, who also works with the elementary and middle school boys, shared a lesson on making cookies.
He had a recipe for the boys to follow. They measured the dry and wet ingredients. Once the ingredients were
mixed thoroughly, the dough was rolled out so the boys could use the holiday cookie cutters. After the cookies
came out of the oven and cooled off, they were beautifully decorated with frosting from the kitchen. The
cookies were shared with the residents of Twin Oaks assisted living facility in Delafield.
The elementary and middle school boys brought holiday cheer to the residents of Willowfield Nursing and
Rehabilitation Center in Delavan. Sandra Waala and the boys made holiday cards and handed them out to
the residents. Broad grins and sparkling eyes were thanks enough. One of the boys even got a smooch on the
cheek!
Michelle Johnson saw a great ornament idea on Pinterest and shared the activity with the elementary and
middle school girls. After gathering all the materials needed to make the ornament, the girls made an ILY
ornament using their own hand as a guide. The girls measured and mixed the ingredients carefully, and then
rolled the dough flat and smooth. After the hand shapes were cut out, the middle and ring fingers were folded
down. Finally, they went into the oven. Once they cooled, they were painted and a ribbon was added. The
lovely ornaments were carefully wrapped, brought home and given as gifts.
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