ICTC CELEBRATES THE HOLIDAYS !

(January 8, 2010)... This holiday season the students at the Indiana County Technology Center students were involved in a variety of ways. They participated in “Penny Wars”, Santa’s Adventure, Salvation Army bell ringing, and a Winter Wonderland Dance.

The annual penny war competition is back after a one year hiatus!  This year the Indiana County Technology Center students battled it out to become the 2009 penny war champions. Two years ago we raised $1,200 during penny wars. This year we raised approximately $1,700. Electrical Occupations raised the most money, winning a pizza party for their program area. It’s always great to see students and staff raising money for charitable organizations. All proceeds from the penny wars are donated to the Teddy Bear fund drive at the IRMC (Indiana Regional Medical Center). When asked what he enjoyed most about having penny wars, Mr. Robert Piccirillo, Culinary Arts instructor replied “it is not just a spirit of competition it’s a spirit of cooperation. In the end everything goes to a worthy cause, perhaps even to a child in our community.”

We all know that the holiday season brings out the best in everyone, and the ICTC has a lot more student activities than just penny wars. The SkillsUSA Chapter hosted its inaugural school dance, Winter Wonderland, on December 11.   SkillsUSA members are proud to make history by being the first class at the ICTC to organize and attend this type of event.  Along with the dance, SkillsUSA also held a Holiday Celebration for the entire school. This year the students were able to visit with their classmates and friends, and play games rather than staying in their own program areas.

Another way the ICTC was involved this season is through the National Technical Honor Society. The Honor Society spread some holiday cheer by having a Santa’s Adventure on December 16. The children of Indiana County Head Start and their parents were able to enjoy fun games and a visit from Santa Claus.  The kids also had their picture taken with Santa and were given a book as a gift. Along with those fun events, the kids received refreshments while enjoying their time. When asked how Santa’s Adventure went, Kelly Haase, Digital Media Technology junior replied “I really enjoyed it, because I saw that the kids really enjoyed it.”

There are so many ways people can help families in need. Interact, another club the ICTC offers to students, chose to help others by ringing the Salvation Army bell with local Rotarians.  Interact member Tara Lewis, Health Occupations junior, commented “I liked seeing the children’s eyes light up when they saw Scooby-Doo (students dressed in costume to greet the community), and I liked giving them hugs!” The hard work and dedication of those involved paid off.
Everyone at the Indiana County Technology Center would like to wish everyone a very happy new year!

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