Students at Clarkston Elementary School experienced a day of understanding when they participated in the ‘Reach for the Stars? program.
‘Reach for the Stars? educates kids about overcoming obstacles to achieve goals.
By using public figures such as Abraham Lincoln, Walt Disney and Jim Abbott, the program draws the students? attention to the celebrity’s accomplishments and instills an understanding that anything can be achieved.
As a special treat, third graders were invited to an assembly on Jan. 19 with guest speaker physical comedian O.J. Anderson, who personally has overcome a major obstacle.
Anderson was in a terrible car accident which left him in the hospital for months. Now, he is on his way in recovery and with the help of therapy can once again perform.
Anderson has performed professionally for over 30 years throughout the world. He worked with SADD for the past 13 years.
He also has some of the most interesting jobs: Anderson coaches clowns with Ringling Brothers and Barnum & Bailey Circus and has toured with Weird Al Yankovich and B.B.King.
‘I get the kids wild and then exhausted so we can discuss the importance of ‘Reach for the Stars,?? said Anderson.
‘O.J. is an inspirational speaker,? said Co-Chair Kim Werner. ‘He really relates to the kids.?
Anderson’s comedy had everyone laughing and his message was clear: you can achieve anything you want to.
At the end of the assembly, the students learned a song and sign language. ‘Reach for the Stars? is a program Clarkston Elementary supports and coordinates every year.