Puppets teach pupils a lesson in integrity

CHRIS KELLY staff A puppet show at the Adelphia School, Howell, teaches children about the importance of having good character.

HOWELL - Good girl Lauren Richards gives in to temptation when she finds the answers to her history exam. Lauren cheats on the test and garners an unearned free pass to a round of miniature golf. The bliss of her deceit drives Lauren to continue in her web of lies, until her conscience finally makes a breakthrough.

Due to the voice of her conscience, Lauren makes a complete turnaround and begins to correct her indiscretions. It was through this lesson that Lauren began to learn that integrity matters.

"Lauren's Lesson" is a puppet show, performed by Sadecky's Puppets Inc., that educates elementary school children on the importance of having good character. The puppet show, sponsored by the PTA, recently came to the Adelphia School, Route 524.

Vice Principal Edward Aldarelli said programs such as "Lauren's Lesson" are important tools in helping children build character.

"It raises awareness of what good character is. It also stresses important things in life such as mutual respect and responsibility. Students are going to need all of these characteristics in their future academic careers," Aldarelli said.

According to Eric Weiner, a stagehand and puppeteer, Sadecky's Puppets not only entertains, but emphasizes important character-building lessons such as anti-violence, anti-bullying, drug and alcohol prevention, respect and many other topics.

Third-grader Katherine Carbone said she learned an important lesson.

"You should always choose the right decision. You should never cheat or tell a lie," Katherine said.

Third-grader Alana Jannielo said she also learned something valuable.

"I learned that you can trust yourself," Alana said.

The next character-building program on the Adelphia School agenda is expected to be "The Good Character Magic Show" by Dove Tail Presentations.

According to Tracy Roedema, a representative of the Adelphia School cultural arts program, "The magic show will emphasize topics such as conflict resolution, consequences of choices, saying no to drugs, paying attention and positive thinking."

- Toynett Hall