By Mike Hutchens, UC Schools Communications Director
Union City, Tenn.–A good breakfast almost always leads to a good day.
Tornado RISE students at Union City Middle School did their part in that scenario Friday, preparing breakfast treats from start to finish for faculty and staff as part of their ongoing development in the widely acclaimed program.
Tornado RISE (Reaching Independence through Structured Environment) focuses on special needs students’ abilities to function in society while also stressing communications skills.
The CDC students showcased all those traits and characteristics in a project that likely will become a regular act each month.
RISE members took orders from faculty and staff for the breakfast treat – offering them the option of Texas toast or an English muffin with bacon, egg, and cheese or sausage egg and cheese. Eighth-grade students – under the watchful eyes and guidance of teachers – made a list of supplies needed, purchased those at Walmart, and then prepared and delivered the breakfast treats Friday morning.
Teacher Cristina King, who heads up Tornado RISE at UCMS, spoke glowingly of the efforts of her students.
“I believe our students learned to pay attention to detail, use effective communication skills, follow instructions, and the importance of cleanliness while cooking with this project,” she said.
“Our students find great joy in serving others with these simple gestures. The life skills they learn each day are invaluable and will serve them well now and down the road.”
Plans are for RISE students to offer a coffee and hot chocolate bar for teachers and staff to choose from in December.