M-W ‘Kids on the Block’’ troupe performs at Sapphire, Smith Clove and Central Valley schools

CENTRAL VALLEY — The Monroe-Woodbury “Kids on the Block” troupe were part of recent “Disabilities Awareness” assemblies at Sapphire, Smith Clove and Central Valley elementary schools.

High school students Colleen Hilla and Shannon Szynkowski performed, answered questions and interacted with first graders at Sapphire and Smith Clove elementary schools and third graders at Central Valley Elementary School.

High schooler Kelli Sachs assisted as the stage manager.

The performances will continue in the spring when the troupe performs at assemblies at North Main and Pine Tree elementary schools.

Pine Tree Elementary Principal Bryan Giudice said the plan is to add additional puppets and assemblies so the individual schools can select which assembly works best for them.

Giudice, Stacy Hintze, the high drama teacher, and the district’s Special Education Parent Teacher Association (SEPTA) assisted in the effort.

“The performers are becoming experts with this Japanese style of puppetry,” said Giudice.

- Nancy Kriz